When Carson’s* family moved out of state, he found himself in an unsafe living situation. He was in need of a place to sleep until he decided if he wanted to join his family out of state. His step dad, trying to help him find a place to go, was referred to The Coffee Oasis. That day, The Coffee Oasis was having an event at a local park, and he was able to meet up with the group and get connected to the shelter.

Carson was able to stay at The Coffee Oasis shelter for around 2 months and had a positive experience. “Coffee Oasis was the only good, safe shelter within the state and my only other option was Seattle which I knew was a lot more dangerous than Bremerton. Coffee Oasis was the best shelter.” He expressed that it was clean and home-like. “Coffee Oasis was one of the best places I’ve ever gone, especially with the staff members. They were more than willing to help provide food, clothes, and help me get a phone.”

Carson built strong friendships during his time at the shelter. “I connected a lot with my peers. We kept each other safe and looked out for each other and felt a connection with the staff. I think it greatly impacted who I am now, especially my peers. They’re like my closest friends. If I hadn’t gone to The Coffee Oasis, I would have never met them. I’m a lot calmer now, a lot more level headed, a lot better person. I really did enjoy staying there. It was like a really big family.”

While staying at the shelter, Carson worked with his case manager to set goals and rebuild his relationship with his family out of state. “She convinced me to start talking to them again. There was another staff member who was absolutely amazing and helped me anytime I needed to talk or vent. There was one time when I couldn’t sleep because I had a lot of stuff on my mind and was having a lot of anxiety about something that happened during that day, so I went up to her and talked to her. She listened, gave me advice, really helped me out, and was there for me. I really appreciated that. She helped me get back in contact with my parents as well.”

Carson has now moved out of state to be with his family. He and his brother work together at a local restaurant and pay rent to stay at a home connected to his parents’ house. He has lots of plans for his future and is about to get his driver’s permit. “I feel like the next step would be to get an apartment with my brother and a full-time job. I feel like a lot of what’s going on in my life would not be possible without The Coffee Oasis.”

*Youth’s name changed.

Carson recently got back in touch with his case manager at The Coffee Oasis. He has created a song that reminds him of his journey from being without a home to finding shelter.

“The Coffee Oasis was quick to welcome me into the shelter and help me find a long term home, which I am staying at now. Since then, I have been grateful for the experiences and adventures that lead me to who I am today, just one year later.”

His lo-fi instrumental song can now be heard when you visit the Burwell café in Bremerton. We are honored to share it with you here as well!