A New Life for Anthony

Anthony Thomas has a special appreciation for the small joys of family life that he shares with his wife, Bonita, and his four sons. Before he found help through Denver Options’ Colorado Connections program, such joys seemed out of reach for Anthony. After he suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), his life spiraled out of control. He had been out of work for a while after his injury and lost custody of his four boys. Ultimately, he became homeless and addicted to drugs.

“Everything changed after I called Denver Options,” Anthony said. Once he began receiving TBI services through Colorado Connections, his life began to steadily improve. Care Coordinator Melissa Mascarenas said it is a joy to see Anthony back with his children and living in a town home. “It all happened because Anthony decided to reach out for help,” she shared. Anthony said he had often been given a list of community resources by others, but he could not find the right help for his needs.

As a first step, Melissa helped Anthony get a new pair of glasses. With his sight restored, Anthony could help his kids with their homework and drive again. A housing voucher program opened the door to a town house with room for the whole family, and assistance with utility payments helped the family get settled and back on track.

For Anthony a hand-up made all the difference. He has found a job, and he’s grateful for all the small things that make up a secure day like enjoying meals in his own home and his children’s joy in being a family again. “Denver Options knows where the real resources are,” Anthony said. “We have a wonderful life here, and we have real hope for our future.”

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Learn more about Colorado Connections.