Experiencing homelessness and then hope to share with others

Keith's success story

When Keith arrived in Toronto in 2001, he was searching for safety, stability, and a fresh start. After days seeking shelter, he was referred to Covenant House, a place he still remembers as a turning point in his life.

“Covenant House was where everything started for me,” Keith said. “The staff were welcoming and kind, and they gave me the resources and support I needed to start building my life.”

Keith vividly remembers his time at Covenant House as a period of learning, growth, and empowerment. The biggest lessons he learned were how to budget money wisely and manage his time effectively, skills that have stayed with him to this day.

A structured schedule helped him develop time management, while cooking lessons gave him the confidence to prepare meals and care for himself.

“I remember saving my allowance to buy my first flip phone,” Keith shared. “It was a small thing, but it symbolized independence and showed me that I was capable of setting goals and achieving them.”

Covenant House also helped Keith take practical steps toward his future. “The staff helped me get into school, find jobs, and access the resources I needed,” he said. “It wasn’t just about giving me a place to stay—it was about helping me build a life.”

Today, Keith’s life reflects his resilience and determination that he started working towards during his time at Covenant House. With over a decade of experience as a corporate professional and a commercial radio host in Toronto, he recently returned to Covenant House as a volunteer to give back to the community that helped him begin his journey.

“It’s surreal to be back here,” Keith said. “This is where it all began for me. Volunteering here is my way of showing gratitude and giving back. When I was a resident, I used to see volunteers helping out and thought, ‘One day, I’ll come back and do the same.’ Now that day is here. It feels so good to be able to do this all these years later”

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