When Karen got sick, it seemed to have a domino effect upon her life.  Her husband left, she lost her job, her savings, and then her condo.  Staying with family did not work out – neither did her attempt to move to a new state.  Stressed and in need of permanent housing for her young son Alec, Karen found herself at St. John’s.

Like many shelter residents, Karen struggled with difficult roommates and depression about her situation.  But she also formed bonds with staff members and began to recognize how St. John’s could help.  In time she moved to Serna Village, where she still lives and facilitates an art group for other residents.

“I see training at Plates Café as an opportunity to express my gratitude,” says Karen.  “I’ve had second and third chances to start over; I got well and got up when life knocked me down.  Now I have time to give to this project.”  

Karen works at the back of the house – she feels like she has more control working behind the scenes.  She is enthusiastic about the future.  “I can’t wait to see what the universe brings from all of this group effort.”