DelAndre's Path to Stability
A father holds his pre-teen son in a warm embrace.
DelAndre is a father who embodies dedication and resilience. He spent nearly 12 years in prison reflecting on what life would be like for him and his family after release.
“While I was incarcerated, I changed my mindstate and worked on becoming a better man: for myself, my family, and especially my son.”
For many, the path from incarceration to stability is not always straightforward; however, DelAndre was determined. He began working through a temp agency to make ends meet, but the pay was less than a living wage. He said, “At times, it was hard to cover rent. And I was able to make it a few times with the help of family.” Relying on friends and family support to make ends meet is a common reality for many working families in Portland.
With a strong resolve to find and keep stability for his family, DelAndre found Path Home’s Prevention program. Through a combination of funding sources, we supported him for 12 months—and will continue walking alongside him as he builds his future. Now working as a solar panel installation technician, he is able to save up some money to help prevent any future crises. While he faces uncertainty as federal budget cuts threaten his job, his determination and resilience continue to light the way forward.
“Today, if it weren't for the assistance of Path Home Prevention and other helpful organizations, my son and I would be without union under our own roof together. Having a safe place for my son, a place we can both call ‘Home’, has given me an overwhelming feeling of joy.”
We thank DelAndre for trusting Path Home and admire his courage and commitment to building a stable life for himself and his family.