Community Human Services (CHS) had their annual luncheon and it was inspiring to hear the stories of clients who have turned their lives around with the help of CHS. The transformative stories of clients who overcame drug addiction was extremely moving. I attended as a board member for CHS and as the representative of the city of Monterey.
CHS runs a residential addiction treatment program, Genesis House, and we heard heartfelt stories of how Genesis House changed people's lives. CHS also runs the only shelter for runaway and homeless youth in Monterey County, Safe Place/Safe Passage. I was proud to receive an award from CHS for the help the city of Monterey provided so that Safe Place could make their stairs safe and ADA accessible and renovate the upstairs. This allowed CHS to add 12 emergency beds, 6 for men and 6 for women. Here I am with Mayor Tyller Williamson and Councilmember Gino Garcia receiving the award.
CHS also runs a shelter for women and families, Casa de Noche Buena, and we are
opening a second shelter on Franklin Avenue this September, Shuman Heart House! These shelters provide wrap around services and help clients finds jobs and housing and address the causes that led to being unhoused.
I joined the Community Human Services board in 2012 after being elected to Monterey City Council and was also recognized for ten years of service on the board. Of all the
boards and commissions I serve on, CHS is the one that I am most proud of because it is making a difference in the lives of so many people.