Carlissa’s Journey to a New Beginning
When Carlissa entered the Phoenix Transitional Housing program in Spokane, she was pregnant, experiencing homelessness, and involved in the criminal legal system. As a single mother of four children, she had nowhere safe to go and wanted one thing above all else – a stable place where she could rebuild her life and work toward reuniting with her children in foster care.
The Phoenix Transitional House, operated by Pioneer Human Services, serves as a bridge from treatment to permanent housing where residents can live up to six months while seeking employment, building a positive rental history, and working toward long-term stability.
Carlissa’s Experience at Phoenix
Throughout her time in the Phoenix program, Carlissa remained committed to making positive changes. She had completed treatment at Revive and continued building on the foundation she had established in recovery. Phoenix staff provided her with stable housing, encouragement, accountability, and unwavering support as she worked toward her goals.
Kimberly Roullier, Phoenix case manager, shared, “We worked alongside Carlissa through difficult circumstances, including behavioral challenges involving both Carlissa and her children, while making reasonable accommodations to help her achieve reunification. The team also supported her in maintaining her sobriety, staying off the streets, and successfully navigating her legal obligations.”
Working Towards Her Goals
While in the housing program, Carlissa completed all of her court requirements, marking another important milestone in her journey toward stability. Through her hard work, perseverance, and commitment to recovery, she successfully met the requirements necessary to regain custody of her four children.
When asked what advice she would give to others beginning their own recovery journey, Carlissa said, “Be honest and open with the staff. They’re here to support you. There’s nothing they haven’t seen or can’t help you work through. Even if you think something might get you in trouble, they’re here for you—not against you.”
Today, Carlissa’s life looks dramatically different. She successfully completed treatment, fulfilled her court obligations, regained custody of her children, obtained employment and secured permanent housing.
Kimberly reflected on Carlissa’s accomplishments, “Dedication and hard work positioned Carlissa to purchase a vehicle, and her commitment to recovery helped her build a strong sober support network. Her determination, resilience, and willingness to accept help allowed her to create a stable future for herself and her family.”
Carlissa’s drive for self-improvement has continued beyond the program. She is currently attending college and pursuing a degree as a paralegal, demonstrating that her commitment to building a brighter future remains as strong as ever.
Reflecting on her recovery, Carlissa shared, “My worst day sober is better than my best day high – it’s the truest thing I’ve ever heard.”
Feeling Grateful
Carlissa shared what the Phoenix Program has meant to her and expressed deep gratitude, saying, “I believe the program probably saved my life.”
She credits the support she received with helping her reunite with her children, complete her legal requirements and build a future she never thought was possible.
Carlissa’s story is a powerful reminder that with safe housing, support, accountability, and determination, lasting change is possible.