When Gui joined the Hillcrest Platte County housing program, he was searching for stability, direction, and a reason to believe in life again. What he found was far more than housing. He found hope, support, and a community that walked alongside him as he rebuilt his life.
During his time at Hillcrest, Gui made remarkable progress. He gained financial and emotional stability, paid off thousands of dollars in debt and legal expenses, navigated unexpected job setbacks beyond his control, and ultimately secured stable employment. Through careful saving, he graduated from the housing program with the funds to secure his own apartment and purchase a car.
One of the most meaningful parts of Gui’s time at Hillcrest involved his beloved cat, who has been by his side for more than 14 years and even traveled with him from Brazil. When off-site care for the cat fell through, many Hillcrest supporters stepped in to help. One supporter ultimately opened their home and fostered his cat, ensuring it was safe and cared for. With that responsibility resolved, Gui was able to focus fully on the work he was doing in the program.
As Gui continued to move forward, he also rebuilt the relationships that mattered most to him, especially with his mother. For a long time, she worried about him. Today, she is proud, relieved, and at peace. “Seeing my mom happy again, that is my greatest achievement,” Gui said.
Gui has now stepped into self-sufficient living with confidence and purpose. He credits Hillcrest and its supporters for making this possible.
“For the first time in a long time, I believe in life again,” Gui shared at his graduation. “I believe there is hope, and that we can choose to change at any moment.”