Even in his most challenging moments, battling addiction and facing homelessness, Michael never stopped fighting to create a better life for himself. Now, with critical support from CCS’s Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) program, Michael has started a new chapter of his life, pursuing his dreams of becoming a professional photographer.
Six years ago, Michael found himself in what he describes as “the darkest place I had ever been in.” Struggling with addiction, living in his truck, and isolated, the obstacles Michael faced seemed almost insurmountable. When Michael connected with HEN, he built a support network that provided the resources and compassion needed to change his life.

“The people at CCS started to feel like friends to me, like people who cared whether I lived or died,” Michael says. “To put it bluntly, they saved my life.”
The CCS HEN program helps thousands of low-income individuals unable to work due to age or disability. “When you live off $417 a month, you can’t survive on your own. We’re here to help our clients survive,” says Program Supervisor Nicole Vaughn.
For Michael, perspective and perseverance have been key in creating a better life for himself. “When you reach that point when hope seems lost and you are about to give up, fight even harder,” Michael says. “Change your perspective, and you will see things in a very different light.”
Now, with his basic needs met through HEN, Michael has turned his focus to education, working toward earning a bachelor’s degree in documentary film. Micheal has also launched his own photography website, and in May and June, his photography will be displayed in the Tahoma Family Center gallery.
“I intend to follow my dreams, working on my art and letting people know they are not alone and that there is still beauty in this world we live in,” Michael says.
Michael hopes that, from his newfound place of stability, he can become a source of understanding and support for those experiencing homelessness today. “Showing compassion to that person holding up that sign, with their head low in shame — you just may be their saving grace.”