Written by a former COTS resident who is currently in our Aftercare Program I was incredibly deep in heroin addiction. After starting drug court, I was ordered to have a drug and alcohol assessment. After my assessment was completed, the judge and my Probation Agent… Read More
Volunteer teaches residents how to make easy, delicious meals The group peers into the cupboard, almost overwhelmed by the possibilities. “OK, what do we want to make today?” says Sarah, COTS volunteer. Voices chime in with different ideas and preferences, and they ultimately decide to… Read More
43-year-old Evan came to COTS in May of 2016. He applied at COTS thinking it would be temporary, since he had some money saved up from previous employment. However, once connected with Partnership Community Health Center’s satellite clinic at COTS, Evan found out that he… Read More
Like the numerous others who volunteer through our Meal Ministry Program, YOU can make a difference by providing heartwarming meals to our residents! Every Monday and Wednesday evening of the year, our Meal Ministers take turns providing the individuals living at COTS with the basic… Read More
On September 9th, 2016, COTS’ Veterans’ and Young Adults’ building was filled with the sounds of hammering, the swish of paint brushes, and the hum of drills as volunteers from the Home Depot worked feverishly to overhaul the building. 40 volunteers from around the region… Read More
A young adult resident is motivated to move his life forward 23-year-old Jake slept on his aunt’s couch in her basement for six months before he moved into COTS. He knew he needed a stable place to get his life on track. “I wasn’t moving… Read More
In 2016, we anticipate serving approximately 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in the Fox Valley. Each of these individuals is provided with the following items upon move-in: NEW twin sheet sets NEW twin comforters or quilts (solid colors) NEW bath towel sets (bath towel, hand towel… Read More
“They don’t teach this in high school. If we can teach [residents] to manage their money, we can reduce their stress so if–really when– bad things happen, they don’t resort to bad habits. The chance of a positive outcome is a lot higher,” says Pete… Read More
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
In 2016, we anticipate serving approximately 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in the Fox Valley. Each of these individuals is provided with the following items upon move-in: NEW twin sheet sets NEW twin comforters or quilts (solid colors) NEW bath towel sets (bath towel, hand towel… Read More