Essie’s Story: What Do You Do When You Find Yourself in Jail?
– April 13, 2018 –
Essie’s* life seemed shattered. She was in jail. Her addiction had ruined her relationships with family and friends. Once she left jail she would be homeless and without work. The future looked like a dead end.
Essie had become addicted to meth and got booked in county jail on possession charges in September 2017. She had undergone regular testing once she had been released (similar to those from https://www.countrywidetesting.com/collections/methamphetamine-met-drug-tests) to try and help her keep off of it, but that was where Randy, a Coffee Oasis case manager, met her.
For some people, jail is just another dead end, but for others it is an opportunity for a new beginning. It was Randy who offered Essie these opportunities-case management, goal setting, and resources for her once she exited jail. Essie cried when they talked about the possibility of reconciling with her family. She knew sobriety would be necessary to rebuild relationships.
For some people jail is just another dead end, but for others it is an opportunity.
Over the next few months, Randy met regularly with Essie. They completed a cover letter and resume, and created a Job Search Plan. Randy practiced mock-interviewing with Essie to build her confidence and skills. They discussed goal setting and objectives so that she would exit jail with a plan. Her biggest goals were to stay clean, get a job, and rebuild relationships with her family.
In November Essie was discharged from jail. She and Randy weren’t able to continue case management meetings because she lived far away and didn’t have transportation. But after a while she let Randy know how things were going.
“I’m working harder every day toward improvement.”
“Hello Randy. I am doing great, [staying] sober. I would have loved to continue meeting but don’t have any transportation. God is doing great things in my life. I did my financial aid but won’t start school until next quarter. I’m working harder every day toward improvement.”
There are young adults willing to take advantage of a chance at a new beginning. They just need support and opportunity. You can give this opportunity to a youth like Essie!
*name changed to respect youth’s identity
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