Patricia's Chance for Change

Patricia spent 20 years of her life addicted to heroin, alcohol, and crack cocaine. Her addictions led to a life on and off the streets, in and out of shelters, and cut off from her family. In January 2019, a counselor from Chance for Change, our out-patient substance-use clinic, led an information session at Patricia’s shelter.  

Patricia signed up for the session and began attending Chance for Change. A short while later she found a permanent home at the NCS Residence. 

Chance for Change follows a harm reduction model, and the staff there recognize that the path to recovery is not always a straight line. In 2020, when the world was shut down, Patricia relapsed. But the Chance for Change staff didn’t meet her with judgment. Instead, they talked through her feelings, reminded her of the coping mechanisms they had taught and gave her hope that she could come back from this situation. Patricia had the tools to quickly get back on track and avoid what in the past had been a weeks-or months-long period of substance use. 

“Chance for Change and NCS have been there for me through everything,” Patricia shared. “They have consistently provided me support and encouragement since day one.” 

Today, Patricia is sober and sees her family every day. She says that they are a source of inspiration for her and continue to motivate her.  

With the support of her family and the NCS community, Patricia is confident in herself and looks forward to her future! 

Click here to learn more about Chance for Change and how it helps clients like Patricia.

In honor of NCS’s 40th anniversary, we will be sharing stories about our founders, volunteers, supporters, and staff who make our work possible, and the residents and clients at the center of our mission.
Check back throughout the year as we regularly update the series with new stories from our 40 years here.