Finding Stability after Experiencing Homelessness

Michael Rudolph arrived at The Salvation Army’s Waterston Centre in Regina after a challenging period marked by instability.

He struggled with his mental health, had lost his job and, as a result, his home. At the same time, he dealt with health issues that kept him in and out of the hospital.

“My health was not good when I came to The Salvation Army,” Michael shares. “These issues were the reason why I lost my place. I was fortunate to get shelter.”

Initially, Michael accessed the emergency shelter before transitioning into the Supportive Residential Program (SRP), which provides private rooms, meals, mental health support and medication administration and monitoring.

For Michael, the program was an opportunity to find a sense of consistency in a routine. During this time, he spent a lot of time at the library, where he accessed resources that supported his recovery. 

“I felt happy to be off the streets.”

Being in a safe environment, with shelter and food, allowed Michael to feel comfortable.

“I was happy to have meals and I liked the kitchen staff. They were my main motivator for staying. They were so nice to me and because of that, I felt happy to be off the streets,” Michael adds. 

Having his own room gave Michael privacy and time to do things he enjoyed. He was able to read his favourite books peacefully and got along well with other residents.

“The security of having multiple doors made me feel safe,” Michael says.

When it came to his mental health, Michael received assistance from Salvation Army staff when it came to accessing treatment. They helped with transportation to appointments and with the administration of his medication.

“Having a ride to my psychiatrist helped. I relied on social workers who gave me a ride. They also helped me by having my medication delivered here,” he says.

“They took me in when I was homeless.”

After spending nearly a year in the Supportive Residential Program, Michael had gained enough stability to move into Waterston House’s Men’s Residential Transitional Program for another year. This next step offered him the chance to continue building confidence and routine, eventually leading him to a more independent housing option at another facility, where he now enjoys greater responsibility and independence.

Although Michael felt happy to move on from The Salvation Army, he still credits his time at Waterston with helping him reach stability. 

“They took me in when I was homeless. The Salvation Army does good things for the community and they got me off the streets.”

Now that Michael finds himself in a better position, his goal is to attend post-secondary studies in business or office administration.

By Juan Romero