June 4, 2009: A Night in White
In our seventh year hosting this event, guests were treated to wine and beer
Raphael
Raphael’s troubles began when his ten-year marriage dissolved into a very difficult divorce. Through the process, he lost custody of his two children, his home, his car, and everything important to him. A broken man, Raphael became homeless, and spent five years abusing drugs and alcohol before he encountered Travelers Aid. When the Salvation Army’s Men’s Program couldn’t place him, a Travelers Aid Case Manager was able to get him placement in St. Vincent de Paul’s Village. Encouraged by the caring and involvement of our Case Manager, Raphael, 41, has taken many steps forward to rebuilding his life. He worked hard for—and has received—his food/bar handlers training and license. He was hired by a downtown restaurant, and recently began work. Raphael stopped by to check in with Travelers Aid not long ago to say “thank you” for helping him and not giving up on him as so many others had done in his past. He plans to stay in St. Vincent de Paul while he is getting on his feet and saving money. He has high hopes of a reunification with his children, and self-dignity for his future.