Impact Stories: Real people. Real communities. Real change.

After my release, I spent three days at my sister's house and two days at my mother's. Eventually, I found myself sleeping on a sidewalk, homeless once again, with nowhere else to turn. That night would become a turning point in my life.

I was brought to First American Harvest, a place I already knew well. During my years of homelessness, I had often turned to them for clothing, shoes, hygiene products, food, and even a bicycle. They had helped me survive some of my hardest days, but I never imagined they would one day help me completely transform my life.

When I learned that First American Harvest offered a recovery and life-rebuilding program, I made the decision to commit myself to six months. Looking back, that decision changed everything.

Before entering the program, I had spent nearly 10 years experiencing homelessness and struggling with addiction. Along the way, I lost almost everything: my cars, my apartment, my jobs, and, most painfully, the opportunity to raise my children. My children were placed in the care of the Department of Child Safety, and I missed precious years of their lives that I can never get back.

I also experienced the unimaginable heartbreak of losing my second daughter, who passed away. That loss will always be a part of me.

But through the support, encouragement, and opportunities I received at First American Harvest, I began rebuilding my life, one day at a time.

Today, I am proud to say that I have been sober for two years. I have a stable home, my own vehicles, and two full-time jobs. I have regained my independence, rebuilt my confidence, and created a healthier, more stable future for myself and my family.

Most importantly, I have the opportunity to be a mother again. Today, I am able to be present in the lives of my children, Damien and Athena, and I have been blessed with my beautiful baby boy, Ayden David, who is now five months old. I get to experience the joy of motherhood with a clear mind, a sober heart, and a renewed sense of purpose.

I know my daughter who passed away is always with me in spirit. I believe she would be incredibly proud of the woman and mother I have become. This is the life she always wanted to see me live.

Of everything First American Harvest has helped me accomplish, nothing compares to the gift of being there for my children and becoming the best mother I can be.

First American Harvest did so much more than provide me with basic necessities or a place to turn when I had nowhere else to go. They believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. They gave me the support, structure, and encouragement I needed to make lasting changes in my life.

To anyone who is struggling or considering entering a recovery program, I want you to know this: if you are willing to give your all, accept the help, and commit to changing your life, it is possible. I am living proof that your past does not have to define your future.

First American Harvest helped me find hope when I thought I had lost everything. They showed me that there are people who genuinely care, who believe in second chances, and who want to see others succeed. Because of them, my children have their mother, I have my life back, and my family has a brighter future.

Thank you, First American Harvest, for believing in me, helping me rebuild my life, and giving me a second chance at being the mother I always wanted to be.

With love and gratitude, Kristin Priscilla Amarillas (Daniela), First American Harvest Program Graduate

When I entered the First American Harvest program, everything began to change. Pete and Drew welcomed me with open arms and gave me the support, encouragement, and tools I needed to start rebuilding my life. They taught me how to face each day, overcome challenges, and keep moving forward, one day at a time.

It hasn't always been easy, but with their guidance and the love and support I've received, my life has continued to improve in ways I never thought possible.

Today, I'm incredibly proud to say that I've reached two years of sobriety. What started as a journey to get my life back has turned into something even greater. I've now become a full-time member of the First American Harvest team, and I have the privilege of sharing everything I've learned with new members entering the program.

One of the most rewarding parts of my journey is participating in our community outreach events, where I get to help others who may be facing some of the same struggles I once faced. Being able to give back, encourage others, and show them that a better life is possible means more to me than words can express.

I can't thank Pete and Drew enough for their unwavering support, their love, and for never giving up on me.

Two years ago, I was struggling just to get through each day. Today, I'm sober, employed, surrounded by people who care about me, and helping others rebuild their lives. First American Harvest didn't just help me get back on my feet. They gave me the opportunity to turn my struggles into a purpose, and for that, I will forever be grateful.