Second Chances In Housing and Support Lead to Success

In Spokane, Ashley Sale, program manager of the Phoenix Transitional Housing program, shared a story on Kelby, a resident who has made exceptional progress even after being re-incarcerated. The Phoenix provides transitional housing up to six months for individuals with behavioral health conditions while they work on obtaining permanent housing. Spokane County owns the building and sponsors the program, and Pioneer Human Services operates the program.  

Kelby originally enrolled in the Phoenix housing program in 2022, but he was facing housing barriers due to his criminal history. While transitioning through the Phoenix the first time, Kelby carried a great deal of stress and depression due to lingering charges he was trying to clear from his record. Other than the weight of his criminal history, he had a good job that he really enjoyed and he was working towards housing with housing supports from Spokane County. Kelby was on track to live a clean and healthy life. 

With his court date approaching, Kelby was very communicative with Ashley as she was his case manager at the Phoenix back then. Kelby let her know that he was not sure of the outcome from his court date that was quickly approaching. When he was admitted to the Phoenix the first time, he had lingering charges and was waiting to possibly be sentenced. Unfortunately, he was sentenced in court to one year despite all the letters of recommendation and work he had done to improve his life. Kelby had been staying out of trouble, he was employed and had housing, and was living a clean and sober life. However, now he would have to serve a year being incarcerated. 

Fast forward to 2024, and Kelby was readmitted into the Phoenix Transitional Housing program, and this time he did not have his criminal history looming over him. Kelby now has a clear mind and positive mental health and housing supports in place, and he is on track to reach his own personal goals and housing success. 

Kelby said, “I feel like before it was such a setback, [having to be incarcerated again] but honestly it was a blessing. Now, I feel like housing options are moving much faster for me and I am able to go through the Phoenix program with a clear mind. I can now focus on me and put my past behind me.  All the stuff I had to deal with from my past mess-ups is finally over. It was really nice that you [the Phoenix] took me back and helped me get back on track.” 

Kelby was also hired back with his former employer and that gave him the ability to purchase a new car. He mentioned to Phoenix staff that he found a cute little apartment that he has applied for and is hopeful. He is still in the process of securing the apartment as there is a waitlist, which is very common for housing options at various apartments. At the rate he is going today, Kelby should be housed fairly quickly and it will be within the six months that the Phoenix is able to support him through his transitional housing experience. 

“I feel like the Phoenix has given me a safe place to rest my head, and the staff have been so amazing and supportive. I am glad that I was able to come back. It is great to have someone to check in with when I am struggling or going through a hard time,” Kelby shared. He also mentioned that he was struggling less with depression and mental health concerns this time around and commented, “I appreciate the second chance, and I am able to look forward to my future.” 

Ashley stated, “Working with Kelby has been such a pleasure. I have had the honor of seeing his improvements since being his case manager back in 2022. Now, I get to watch him thrive in the world again today. He is such a bright, friendly and kind human being.” 

She concluded, “In the past and prior to his more recent return to Phoenix, I witnessed him struggling with his mental health as his criminal history was absorbing all of his energy. Currently, it is my pleasure to be able to see him thrive – it has been very cool to watch. He is a strong individual who has worked hard to get where he is today. I am very impressed with his progress and he should be proud of himself for his hard work and positive outlook.”