COOKING UP SUCCESS
 

Earl Thomas is at it again. Cooking, that is. Earl, a longtime cruise ship chef, is back doing what he loves—serving up good eats! And he credits Plymouth Housing Group for helping him get back on his feet.

After an addiction to drugs landed Earl in jail for a short time, he knew he had to begin anew, leaving old habits and friends behind. Supported by the stability of housing, he has been able to do just that, with incredible success.

Earl moved into the Pacific Apartments last November, after spending over a year in shelters.

“When you’re staying in shelters you get caught up in the syndrome of being homeless. It’s hard to get a job because it’s hard to keep up your body maintenance. You have no control over your life.”

Since coming to the Pacific, he has worked hard to gain that control back. The Pacific’s Housing Stabilization Specialist, Janet Yale, has no shortage of accolades for Earl.

“He is so organized. He sets his sights on a goal and doesn’t let anything stop him. After just a few weeks in housing he already had a job as a short order cook. It’s so exciting.” 

Likewise, Earl has found a reliable friend and support in Janet.

“She’s my rock,” he says. “I can come and talk to her when life isn’t easy.”

Despite Earl’s accomplishments, he is frank to share the challenges of remaining drug free.

“There is no quick cure to stay clean. It’s a continual struggle. But housing gives me the opportunity to keep physically and mentally clean. The rest is up to me!”

 “My hat’s off to PHG,” says Earl. “I’m so happy to be here. Having a place of my own means a world of difference. To get a good night’s sleep without having someone’s feet by my head [in the shelters]…I am so thankful. There is a light shining my way.”

Earl knows that no obstacles are too big. His mantra? “Life is a challenge!”

And he’s certainly up for it. His radiant positive attitude is contagious.