Austin was told about The Coffee Oasis while staying at the Salvation Army, but he didn’t know where it was until one day he saw a bunch of kids going upstairs to the drop-in center.

Austin’s Story

Growing up, Austin suffered abuse in multiple foster homes. While living in one home, his father figure passed away and he was sent to another abusive home. Eventually, his biological father came into the picture and things were different for awhile, but he turned out to be the same way. Austin came to Washington looking for a different life, however, things fell apart. He was living in shared housing, but his job hours got cut and he could no longer make rent. 

Austin was told about The Coffee Oasis while staying at the Salvation Army, but he didn’t know where it was until one day he saw a bunch of kids going upstairs to the drop-in center. He was able to stay at the Bremerton youth shelter from February through the end of April. He expressed that it was a good experience.

“Everyone knew my name and greeted me. I got to hang out with teenagers and my age group. The energy was great. I like the employees. They’re really nice. Even the cafe is awesome.”

Austin expressed that it helped him find opportunities he wouldn’t have had staying at other shelters. He worked with his case manager to find housing and complete job training classes. He learned how to present himself in an interview and answer various questions that would be asked. Austin’s case manager saw a lot of progress and that he was doing all the things he needed to do. She knew the coordinator for a transitional housing program in Gig Harbor, and he was able to enter that program after his time in The Coffee Oasis youth shelter. 

He stayed in the transitional housing program through July and was then connected with the REACH program (Resource for Advocacy, Communication, and Housing). This provided a one-year, one-bedroom lease for a free apartment unit. Austin’s case manager drove him to see his new place. His joy and excitement was evident as the property manager walked him through his new place. “This closet is so big, this could be my office! A stove and pots and pans! A backdoor with a view!” His Coffee Oasis case manager was met with a wave of nostalgia as Austin’s new case manager gave her welcome speech. She felt like she was truly sending him off and turning over responsibility to another safe adult whose job was to safeguard his goals and nurture growth. 

In addition to finding stable housing, Austin’s mental health has significantly improved since he first stepped into The Coffee Oasis. “I was once suicidal and the only reason I didn’t commit is because I knew there was someone who would love me out there. I found that love and I’m glad that I didn’t commit because I have a beautiful, wonderful girlfriend and we’ve been together eight years.” He hopes to continue improving his mental health and find stable income.

Story Written by: Caryn Wright // Written: 06/07/24