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From Homelessness to Helping Others: Ronnie’s Story
Published: October 31, 2024
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For more than 40 years, Ronnie Stienke, 59, struggled with drug addiction, a battle that cost him relationships, health, and stability.
Experiencing on-the-street homelessness for six years and living in a shelter for 11 months during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, things started to look up for Ronnie when HOPE Shelters contacted Community Housing Network (CHN) to get him housed.
Ronnie was helped through our Permanent Supportive Housing program, and the day after his 56th birthday in 2021, he moved into a home of his own.
“It was the best birthday present ever,” Ronnie recalls. “Community Housing Network saved my life.”
CHN’s supportive services became the foundation for a new chapter in Ronnie’s life, giving him the opportunity to not only get back on his feet but thrive as well. With a stable home as his foundation, Ronnie worked hard on overcoming his addiction and he’s proud to say he’s been sober since June 2023.
He began volunteering at Harm Reduction & Syringe Services in Oakland County, where he helps others overcome the struggles he once faced. He advocates for life skills courses to help people become self-sufficient after struggling with addiction and housing instability.
“There’s only one thing you need to change if you’re an addict – everything,” said Ronnie. “You have to truly want it.”
Ronnie is one of 21,000 people Community Housing Network will empower to establish or maintain a stable, dignified home this year. Each year, CHN invests $9 million to help children, families, people with disabilities and other vulnerable Metro Detroiters to sleep in a warm bed with a roof over their heads.
A proud father of six, Ronnie, has strengthened his relationship with his children and grandchildren. They’re now able to spend time together at his home playing games, coloring, and cooking together for the holidays.
“Nothing brings me more happiness than knowing that they love me and trust me.”
If he’s not volunteering or spending time with family, Ronnie is exercising, reading, and meditating. These habits have helped him maintain his sobriety and focus on personal growth. He now has his sights set on becoming a peer recovery coach and graduating from CHN’s housing programs.
“Watching Community Housing Network help people inspires me to be clean and sober,” said Ronnie.
To learn more about Community Housing Network and the programs and services we offer, click here. To help provide a stable home to those in need, click here.