BRIDGEPORT, CT — In April 2023, Mr. McNeill embarked on a life-changing journey when he was accepted into the CCR Program through 2-1-1, where he was matched with Ms. Nataya McCalla, a Senior Case Manager at Catholic Charities. At 41 years old, Mr. McNeill, a father of two boys aged 4 and 10, had faced numerous challenges but remained determined to create a better life for himself and his children.
Despite possessing intermediate skills in landscaping and carpentry, Mr. McNeill encountered setbacks due to past decisions as a younger man, including serving an 8-year jail term and subsequently facing homelessness upon release. The weight of these experiences led to diagnoses of depression and PTSD, yet Mr. McNeill resolved to turn his life around, seeking solace in positive communities, church attendance, and weekly mentoring sessions.
His commitment to change led him to enroll in a shelter, where he initiated the process of securing a housing voucher for stability. Matched with the CCR program, which offers strengths-based case management and permanent housing for individuals with histories of chronic homelessness and incarceration, Mr. McNeill found a lifeline in Catholic Charities.
With Ms. McCalla’s support, Mr. McNeill embarked on a challenging nine-month journey to find suitable housing in Bridgeport, CT. Despite the hurdles, his determination never wavered. Finally, on January 24th, 2024, Mr. McNeill signed his lease and received the keys to his first apartment, a two-bedroom unit obtained under special circumstances.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Mr. McNeill eagerly anticipated providing a stable space for his children during visits. Looking ahead, he aspires to enroll in a trade school and secure stable employment, leveraging this newfound stability to rebuild his life.
Mr. McNeill’s story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of support and opportunity. Through the CCR Program and the dedicated efforts of Catholic Charities, individuals like Mr. McNeill are empowered to rewrite their narratives, reclaiming hope and dignity on the journey to a brighter future.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: If you, or someone you know, is at risk of having to leave their home and having nowhere to stay, please dial 2-1-1 and press Option 3 to speak with a 2-1-1 Housing Crisis Specialist. The line is open daily 24 hours a day.
Mr. McNeill with the keys to his new apartment
