As a young woman in her 20s, Melinda had a full life yet ahead of her. But she struggled with an addiction to alcohol. When doubt and worry made her question her relationships and the future of her job, she decided to turn to the Sophia Recovery Centre.
But then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing the centre for women in recovery from addiction to close before Melinda had her first appointment.
Despite having to shut its doors, coaches from the centre reached out to women who had appointments and encouraged them stay connected with them by telephone or video chat
On Melinda’s first call, her coach shared her own personal story of recovery from addiction.
From that point on, Melinda maintained weekly contact with the coach until the centre reopened.
She has stopped drinking completely, reports a significant improvement in personal relationships and has maintained her job.
Recently, Melinda has participated in a community clean-up program at Sophia, is helping with a fundraising project and is encouraging other women to come for help.
It is thanks to United Way donors that programs like this are able to transform the lives of people most in need – people like Melinda.