THE RENAISSANCE COLLABORATIVE, INC.
Ending Homelessness
The Renaissance Apartments provides the chronically homeless with the resources necessary for eventual self-sufficiency. TRC is guided by the belief that before individuals can become productive members of their communities, they must have a safe, stable environment in which they can learn to build relationships with others and to discover their own value.
Many different kinds of people experience homelessness and for different reasons. TRC focuses on the chronically homeless. These individuals have been homeless for a year or more or four times in the last three years. Many use the shelter system for extended periods of time and take up 50% or more of total shelter days. Although the chronically homeless represents a small percentage of the overall homeless population, this group utilizes a large proportion of the system’s resources, from 18% to over 50% (based on research conducted in various cities).
Part of the problem has to do with the fact that there is currently no agreed upon definition of homelessness, nor is there an authoritative count of how many people are homeless in
We think that one good way to do this is to provide a space for our residents to tell their stories in their own words. Meet Shirley Boyd
I moved in [to the Renaissance Apartments] late summer of 2002. I was so proud to be in my own apartment. It meant so much to me to have my own apartment keys, after being homeless and kicked out of places, you really learn to appreciate your own place so much. After being on drugs and alcohol for so long, it felt like the clouds lifted and I was finally able to see the sky clearly. I did everything that was expected of me and more. I attended computer classes, swimming lessons, group meetings, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous meetings, I even started going to church again. Then TRC started hosting meetings in the building on Saturdays. I was so glad we had meetings in our own place of living. I started speaking about my experience of being on drugs and alcohol to help others. I felt good about myself, being able to live clean and sober and even helping others. At a TRC NA meeting, I met my husband Robert who was living in the building too. I remember when he asked me out for a movie, he tripped on his shoelaces, haha! I guess he was nervous, but I didn’t hesitate to say yes, yes, yes. We fell in love and got married April 25, 2005, and we are still growing in love and in God. I want everyone to know that God does answer prayers because I prayed for Robert and he prayed for me too. We keep each other clean with the help of God and his mercy and grace. I will never forget TRC. They gave me my life back and a new beginning for the future. I loved my apartment (apt 505!), my neighbors and the staff. I could never thank them enough for what they have done for me and my husband.
Meet Curtis Hudson
It all began in June 1985, when I became an addict. I had my family, an apartment, and a place of employment. I started off trying different drugs, then next thing I know, I couldn’t help myself, I became hooked. I started switching jobs, drift away from my family, and fell late on my rent and bills. In the end, I lost my family and friends, my job, and was evicted from my apartment.
I hit rock bottom. I was homeless and had to move into a shelter, had no one to turn to, and was in and out the jail system. But, in February 2005, I came across the church that was willing to help me, and I started believing in Christ. The church then placed me in a program, where I was counseled and supported. During this time, I was introduced to TRC and had a reality check.
I lived in the Renaissance Apartments from May 2005 through October 2007. There, I got everything I needed to get back on my feet, from support to rules and “tough love.” TRC has an amazing staff team, and I want to especially thank Ms. Sherri Reeves. At the time, I did not like the visitor policies, the random drug tests, the room inspections, the mandatory group meetings, and the list goes on. But now, I appreciate the Renaissance Apartment’s policies, and I know that without them, I wouldn’t have been able to become the man I am today.
During the time I lived at the Renaissance Apartments, I renewed my faith in Christ, and I was blessed with a job at the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) in June 2005 as a Track Repairman. Since moving out, I have reunited with my family, rebuilt my finances and credit, regained social skills, and have a much better outlook on my life and my future.
Recently, I purchased a car, became a homeowner, and have been promoted at CTA as Lead Track Inspector. So, again I say “CREDIT TO RENAISSANCE FOR MOMENTS OF CLARITY AND VALUABLE SUPPORT.”
Meet Mbu-Walters
