That’s why the Food and Care Coalition provides these essential services under one roof. We offer a hand up, not a handout, which is always delivered with dignity, respect and love.

Here are just a few of the many lives being transformed through hope, support and opportunity:

Brittani’s story

Brittani’s childhood was shaped by addiction, abuse and instability. After losing her mother to a drug overdose at just 8 years old and growing up in a difficult home environment, she struggled for years with addiction and emotional pain of her own.

A turning point came when Brittani began searching for hope, healing and a fresh start. In 2025, she moved to Utah County, but unexpected housing problems left her living in her car.

That’s when she found the Food and Care Coalition.

Through our Transitional Housing and Case Management Programs, Brittani found stability, encouragement and support as she rebuilt her life. She remained sober, secured steady employment and recently moved into her own apartment.

Today, Brittani is thriving, active in her church and pursuing career goals in the medical field.

Steve’s story

Steve grew up in a loving home in Provo, but everything changed in high school when he was introduced to drugs and alcohol. Over time, meth addiction took hold, costing him jobs, relationships and years of his life.

After losing his longtime girlfriend to cancer, Steve spiraled deeper into addiction and depression. But one day, he remembered a promise he had made to her — to get clean. That moment changed everything.

Steve quit using drugs, alcohol and cigarettes, returned to church and rebuilt his life with the support of his family. Later, he devoted himself to caring for his brother, who suffered from multiple sclerosis, while also helping his aging parents through declining health.

After losing both his mother and brother in 2022, Steve found himself homeless and turned to the Food and Care Coalition for help. Through our Transitional Housing Program, he found stability and eventually moved into one of our Candlelight Villas apartments.

Today, Steve is sober, hopeful and known for his kindness, positivity and uplifting spirit.

Paola’s story

Paola was born in Guatemala and separated from her parents at a young age. Her childhood was marked by instability, abuse and deep feelings of abandonment. Though she appeared happy and successful on the outside, she struggled internally for years with addiction, anxiety and trauma.

For more than two decades, Paola lived a double life as a high-functioning addict — maintaining jobs and responsibilities while battling depression and substance abuse in secret.

Her turning point came three and a half years ago when a devastating relapse left her homeless and brought her to the Food and Care Coalition. Here, she found more than shelter — she found people who believed in her and reminded her that addiction did not define her.

Today, Paola is clean and sober, leading a successful career, and helping others through Narcotics Anonymous. She is preparing to share her story with incarcerated women and others struggling with addiction.

The stories of Brittani, Steve and Paola are powerful reminders that healing, recovery, hope and new beginnings are always possible.

At the Food and Care Coalition, we are grateful to be part of transforming lives and helping individuals move from crisis to stability. Join us and make a difference. Donate or volunteer by visiting foodandcare.org, by calling 801-373-1825 or by sending an email to volunteer@foodandcare.org.