Claude — Building a Stable Future

“What started as a social activity when I was 18 turned into a serious problem,” shares Claude, reflecting on his struggles with alcohol. “Things worsened after my father passed away. Then I went through a divorce and lost my job, and my dependence on alcohol continued to deepen.”

Claude knew he needed a fresh start. “I wanted to be a better father for my children,” Claude says. “At the time, I was living in Florida, and there weren’t many treatment programs. I did some research and learned that Boston had better recovery resources. My children stayed in Florida with their mom while I sought help.”

After relocating to Boston, Claude entered a treatment facility where he discovered Pine Street Inn’s iCater food services job training program. “My case manager told me about iCater, and I saw the program as a great opportunity to learn new skills,” Claude shares. “I used to work as a kitchen prep assistant, so I had some training. The program offers not just culinary skills like knife techniques and customer service, but also lessons in budgeting, goal setting and mindfulness.”

“The iCater program has given me a sense of pride and achievement,” Claude says. “It provides me with structure and keeps me grounded.”

Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, Claude is focused on creating a stable future for himself and his children. “I am looking for a job and housing in Boston,” he shares. “I’m very grateful for the iCater program. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”