The Journey Home

Hi, my name is Diane and I’m a former guest of New Beginnings’ Noel Lodge where I was referred to by a friend who had a family member that had stayed there at one time. I moved back to Hutchinson from Wichita due to having lost my job and then got a 3-day eviction notice (management was not willing to work with me even though I told them I was going to be getting help). When I arrived at Noel I was welcomed with open arms and they were very instrumental in referrals to help me get back on my feet. They helped me out with clothing vouchers, referred me to Prairie Star Health and the Lions club for glasses. I wound up being there for 9 months because even though I was having trouble finding work I was working the program and doing what I was supposed to do, part of that being meeting with case manager and filling out a daily plan of action. Because I couldn’t find work I eventually retired (having reached retirement age) and was able to save up enough to move into their transitional housing at Fox Run. Six months later I was able to move into permanent housing at Hutchinson Lofts and have lived there since 2024.