54-year-old Tom, a referral to COTS from Homeless Connections, decided living paycheck to paycheck was not helping him have a better life. For Tom, “budgeting is a big factor and goal in starting over.”

The “structure” at COTS allows Tom to learn and apply valuable lessons about “living in a community, financial structuring and budgeting.” Rent Smart, a tenant/landlord course developed through the UW-Extension and Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University are tools he is acquiring to assist him in the long term.

Through Riverview Gardens’ transitional employment program, Tom takes pride in his work at the COTS’ hoop house. This employment gives him work history, an opportunity to give back to his community and a chance to teach other residents about healthy food and composting.

Tom is also working with the FVTC Outreach Coordinator who comes to COTS for his future career and goal to become a Vet Tech. “I appreciate everything COTS has done for me…I am forever grateful.”