Evelyn survived more than 50 years living with a substance use disorder that began when she was a child. “I have been drinking since I was 12. That’s all I ever knew.”

Hopeful for a better life, Evelyn decided to make a change. “I just got tired of being tired…I said to myself, ‘I know life is better than this. It has to be.’” Evelyn admitted herself into a rehabilitation facility and after completing a treatment program, she transitioned to Mercy Housing Lakefront’s Wentworth Apartments.

Mercy Housing Lakefront gave Evelyn the home and community she needed to rebuild her life. “I was an alcoholic. Now, I am a recovering alcoholic for a year and some months…Since I moved in here, my whole life has changed. I am so proud of myself,” shared Evelyn. Upon moving in, case management with Catherine Brown provided her with critical resources, access to benefits, and a strong foundation of support in addition to the many resident services programs offered.

Evelyn rarely misses an opportunity to improve her health and wellbeing through onsite services. “I like the cooking classes. They got one that helps you eat properly…I just enjoy it because it’s new to me. I didn’t know how much salt and sugar are in food. Now, I watch what I eat. I read labels on boxes and cans…back in the day I just ate whatever.” Evelyn incorporates what she learns into her everyday cooking thanks to a partnership with Top Box Foods that delivers affordable, nutritious meal kits to her door bimonthly.

Through Mercy Housing Lakefront’s Community Health Worker program, Evelyn has developed a strong relationship with Annette, a resident of Mercy Housing Lakefront’s South Loop Apartments and a Community Health Worker.  Annette has helped Evelyn coordinate her doctor’s appointments, manage her medications, and gain self-advocacy skills. “I have grown to trust her with my health. I love talking to her. She is so friendly…when I see her, my whole day changes – it just lights up.” Because Annette has lived experience, she was able to build rapport with Evelyn quickly. “We can relate better to Annette at times. She listens. She gives you a solution,” said Evelyn.

Evelyn is also focusing on her mental health and building community with her neighbors. She participates in an onsite mental health group, led by Mercy Housing Lakefront staff member Marcus Whisnant, where participants are invited to reflect on various mental health topics and share how they feel. “It’s just amazing for me to be sitting somewhere and be really focused on what is being said. When I went that first time, I didn’t stop.” Additionally, she participates in a sewing group at Roseland Place Apartments, led by Mercy Housing Lakefront staff member Nancy Edwards, where she also volunteers to help older residents be active in their community.

Before Mercy Housing Lakefront, Evelyn recalls struggling to get out of bed. Now, she wakes up every morning with a smile on her face and motivation to help others: “I’m doing so good. Everybody is so proud of me.”