Personal Stories

Michelle and Her Story of “Waking Up”

Michelle, like many individuals living with mental health challenges, had been experiencing a “flattened affect,” an underlying symptom of several mental and physical health conditions as well as a side effect of some medications.   “I never wanted to do anything, even when my sisters or my friends reached out to me.” The symptoms which… Read More

Butterfly Art in Appreciation of RISE

Lucinda made this beautiful Diamond Dotz® butterfly and presented it to RISE Housing and Support Services in appreciation of the services she has received since being in our housing programs. When presenting her artwork to our staff, she shared with us why she made it and how doing arts and crafts helps her maintain her… Read More

Winged Creatures: a Poem by Elaina

Elaina, a Supported Housing resident, shared a beautiful poem she wrote in tribute to our agency and most importantly to the people we serve. She feels it expresses the transformative nature of our new name, RISE!   Winged Creatures We all must face change, regenerate, rejuvenate, Embrace metamorphosis, a cathartic, beautiful necessity, In order that… Read More

Lawrence: A Life Turned Around

A year ago, March 2020, as things began to shut down due to the Covid-19 virus, Lawrence was standing on a street corner in Saratoga with a sign that said ‘Too ugly to prostitute. Anything helps.’  This year he is celebrating sobriety, being in stable housing, and a reconnection to his family. He was spotted… Read More

Robert: from Homelessness and Isolation to Vitality

“Living in RISE Housing Programs – Rain House and PSAP – gave me the opportunity to heal.” “From homelessness and isolation to vitality” is the theme of Robert, a Progressive Steps Apartment Program (PSAP) resident’s story. He proudly shares how housing programs at RISE Healthy Housing and Support Services helped him regain his life. Robert… Read More

A Poem by Elaina: Stepping Lightly

Elaina, a RISE Healthy Housing and Support Services Supported Housing resident, shared a poem she wrote in hopes that it inspires others as much as it did her while writing it. Stepping Lightly She steps as lightly as a willow branch Blowing in a gentle breeze Wisps of long sun-drenched hair Barely hiding the pain in… Read More

Mike: Living a Full and Healthy Life in Recovery

“One of the best things about being at Milestone Manor is that I have self-esteem again. I believe in myself.” Mike’s story is one that is familiar to those who have struggled with both mental health and substance abuse issues. Except this is a story about success: Mike completed his program at Milestone Manor, a… Read More

A Memorial to a Longtime Supported Housing Resident

RISE Housing and Support Services memorializes a longtime Supported Housing resident, Harold, who passed away this past summer. Harold moved into the Supported Housing Program in 1994 where he lived a full and robust life. Harold is described as a kind person with a gentle soul and was well liked by Supported Housing Staff. Amy… Read More

Christina: Victory Through Recovery

“If you really want recovery, Hedgerow House has a lot to offer to help you achieve it” RISE Housing and Support Services continues to observe National Recovery Month by celebrating Christina, a Hedgerow House graduate, for successfully maintaining her sobriety since completing the program last November. Christina is very proud of her accomplishment and credits… Read More

Kendra and Lee: Celebrating their Recovery

RISE Housing and Support Services is observing National Recovery Month during the month of September by celebrating the people in RISE Programs who are successfully maintaining their mental health and sobriety.   “Our mutual love of music is a very therapeutic part of our friendship. We spend a lot time listening to music together. It… Read More