In 2011, after living in Japan for 21 years as an English Instructor, Kevin, a former COTS client, returned to the United States. Upon his return, Kevin found himself in a tumultuous battle with undiagnosed depression. Over the next few years, his depression consumed him, leading to the loss of everything he had.
Left with nothing but the shirt on his back, Kevin reached a point where he believed the world would be better off without him. Despite several unsuccessful attempts to end his life, he found himself surviving under a bush with nowhere else to turn. Determined to make a final attempt, Kevin decided to walk to a nearby bridge.
During his walk, Kevin recalled hearing about a homeless shelter in Petaluma along his route. On a whim, he decided to visit the shelter, and upon entering COTS, he encountered compassionate individuals who helped him find hope again. Among those who made a significant impact was Debbie Robbins, a COTS Care Manager and Trainer, whom Kevin considers not just a caseworker but also a friend. He also expressed gratitude towards Emily, who assisted him with housing applications and paperwork, acknowledging their knowledge, patience, and kindness.
Before finding refuge at COTS, Kevin described himself as being at the “absolute bottom” of his life. However, upon moving into the Mary Isaak Center, his circumstances began to change. He spent six months there, before transitioning to a COTS Integrity Housing property in Petaluma. This allowed him to afford rent while working retail jobs, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
During his time at Integrity Housing, Kevin utilized COTS’ services and sought help from psychologist Karen Duffy, who assisted him in obtaining an emotional support animal letter. This led him to find Zoe, his dog and loyal companion who provided invaluable support in managing his diagnosed major depression.
Earlier this year, nearly a year after welcoming Zoe into his life and around his 68th birthday, Kevin received news from Burbank Housing about an available opening that included a section eight voucher. Despite the daunting paperwork, COTS provided unwavering support, guiding him through the process and facilitating his move to Santa Rosa within a month.
Although apprehensive about leaving behind the supportive services of COTS and relocating from Petaluma to Santa Rosa, Kevin now expresses immense happiness. He appreciates his new surroundings, acknowledging the revitalization of the area following a recent fire.
Reflecting on his journey, Kevin credits COTS and the attention he received from Debbie Robbins and the organization for his survival and current contentment, emphasizing, “I’m alive today, thanks to COTS, and I’m here having a happy life.”