This summer we’re celebrating Crystal Ortega and her family moving from Joshua Station into long-term stable housing. What mixed emotions this always brings! It’s hard to let go of this era—for them and us.

Crystal blessed us by doing a brave thing at her graduation ceremony and celebration. Decked out in cap and tassle, sharing teary eyes with many of us in the packed crowd, she slowly unfolded a piece of paper and took a deep breath. She spoke from her heart to her fellow residents, volunteers, staff, family, and well-wishers—and we’d like to share her words with you:

Thank you everyone. Sorry if I get a little tongue tied. I’m not so good at speaking in front of crowds. But let’s see, where should I start? When I first heard of Joshua Station, I wasn’t sure if it was for me, and to be honest I wasn’t sure if community living was for us. But at the time I had a lot of stuff going on in my life. I was new to recovery, and I was dealing with a lot of legal issues. We were homeless and living in a church. I had just had a baby, and my husband went to prison—leaving us behind.

I had a lot of time to reflect on how things were. I knew it was time for me to change our situation and try to rebuild a better life for myself and kids. So I applied and was accepted. I didn’t know what to expect coming into community living, but in all honesty, it was something we needed!

My mom and my sister were by my side though all my doubts, and I can’t thank them enough. I also never knew how much I needed the extra support from the staff here at Joshua Station who actually cared and wanted to help. When I came here, I felt no judgment—which was something I wasn’t used to. I was no longer embarrassed by my past. I was able to accept it and let it be a motivation to continue to do things I never thought I could.

Not only did I start opening up to people, so did my kids! It took us a little bit to get used to, but we did. My kids made friendships. I did as well, and hopefully these friendships will last a lifetime. My time here at Joshua Station was a time for me to work on myself as a person and to work towards being a better mom. I was able to accomplish so many things that I had put off for so many years, having a place to call home was such a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.

I am finally content with my future and am no longer uncertain of how things will be. In my time here I was able to complete probation, build healthy boundaries, and form healthy relationships I got my confidence back! After being denied at place after place for permanent housing, I found my voice. I fought to get housing for my kids, and that was a huge accomplishment when I got it. I was also able to find full-time employment, where I am a lead. I am also days away from completing my GED—something I started while here at Joshua Station. If it wasn’t for this place, who knows where we would be right now. So I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has helped us in the journey of life.

We honor you Crystal, and likewise express our gratitude for the great light you have brought our community! From all of us, our prayers and very best wishes go with you and your precious family.