The opportunity to learn and grow is renewed through ICCS programs like Samaritan Place, where individuals are provided with valuable resources and support. Thus, enhancing and nurturing their learning experiences. Through interviewing Stacy, a client at Samaritan Place, the learning and growth objectives of ICCS programs are apparent.
Prior to living at Samaritan Place since it opened in 2022, Stacy stayed at Prideaux Shelter. During her time at Samaritan Place, Stacy has become acquainted with the importance of friendship, making lasting connections and guiding others on its significance. She has had the opportunity to host talks on friendship for fellow residents, sharing her insights and experiences.
Stacy notes the feelings of safety and security are the biggest changes to her life she has seen since coming to Samaritan Place, “I’m happy because it’s safe to live here. You know, it’s, it’s safe… it’s a safe building, it’s safe for you to come in, there’s always staff here.” With this, Stacy conveys that the option of regular meals offers residents routine and consistency that they might otherwise not have. “Yeah, it’s nice to have food guaranteed every night, you know, if you don’t want it, you don’t have to eat it, you know, you can make yourself something else.”
Personal goals allow ICCS clients to push through tumultuous times as they provide them with direction and motivation. Stacy’s goal for this year is to keep on track and maintain emotional stability despite the occasional dwindling will to move forward after the loss of her partner in previous years. Consistency and emotional stability often go hand in hand. Creating a routine and sticking to it can provide a sense of structure and predictability, which can be comforting during difficult times. Additionally, the Clean Sweep program has brought structure to Stacy’s life as she is able to contribute to the greater good of the community.
Stacy’s passion for contribution thrives through the work she does with Clean Sweep, where she and other members contribute to city cleanup efforts by picking up garbage around the downtown area. Their efforts not only enhance people’s living conditions by keeping the city clean but also contribute to the overall care of the community. Further, the incorporation of the Lifeskills program with Samaritan Place has stood out to Stacy, who enjoys the high teas offered as a part of the program.
The learning opportunities at Samaritan Place are plentiful, ranging from spiritual guidance to emotional literacy to creative expression and more. Stacy considers the Indigenous teachings from an elder as a standout learning moment, where she witnessed generations of wisdom and now carries some of those teachings herself. With this, the quality of life for residents like Stacy is enhanced through continuous learning. Stacy’s goals for the future emphasize staying healthy, content, and consciously positive, while actively striving to move forward and further expand her knowledge whenever the opportunity arises.
Written by Aleeya Middleton, ICCS intern