A resident’s journey toward independent living “I was homeless, I was in trouble with the law and had very limited resources,” recalls 75-year-old Jason while reflecting on his time before COTS. After a stint in jail, Jason was left with only his clothing and a… Read More
COTS resident furthers her life while giving back “I heard there was a lot of help here,” says Eleanor of her decision to apply to COTS. Eleanor heard about COTS while living in Appleton, but didn’t apply until it was time for her release from… Read More
Forty-eight-year-old Jake has struggled with bipolar disorder and anxiety for much of his life. When his father passed away, alcohol became his coping mechanism. Due to Jake’s heavy drinking habits, he lost his job of seven years, which later led to the loss of his… Read More
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… Read More
Resident of Veterans’ Program finds happiness and purpose Michael’s life changed when he hit a semi at 70 miles per hour. He was paralyzed from the neck down for 5 weeks. Due to the accident, Michael had to give up his 20-year welding career. After… Read More
Future paralegal gets her life on track “I was kind of stuck,” Beth explains of her reasons for coming to COTS. Beth spent the last 12 years of her life caring for her parents while working. When her father became sick two years ago, her… Read More
Young adult resident gets his life back on track “I was kind of spinning my wheels,” Ryan says of his life before COTS. The now 23-year-old had, “a very sheltered childhood.” Once he went to college, however, he started experimenting with drugs and alcohol. “I… Read More
The holidays are a time to show gratitude. This holiday season, we asked our residents what they are grateful for:
A COTS Resident Testimonial “I was homeless for nine days. I lived out of my car.” Tobias moved into COTS’ Young Adult Program nearly three months ago after his stint living out of his car. The 20-year-old had been kicked out of his adopted parents’… Read More
A COTS Resident Testimonial Storm Damage Necessitates Change Simon was living in Grand Chute when a terrible storm came rolling through. The home that he was renting, as well as both of his vehicles, suffered severe damage from a tree that was uprooted during the storm.… Read More