"I am a survivor, and I've got this," shares Amy, a resident in our Community Rehabilitation Program (CRR). Amy, a young woman who has faced mental health challenges since childhood, wants to share that she’s on a recovery journey—one she and Strawberry Fields are incredibly proud of. Her progress reflects her dedication, hard work, and the compassionate, skilled support of Strawberry Fields staff.
CRR provides support for individuals recovering from serious mental health challenges. It offers resources, education, assistance with daily living, medication management, preventive healthcare, and social skills training in a supportive, home-like environment. Residents, who typically stay for about two years, develop the skills needed to live more independently.
Amy's journey has been long and challenging, marked by multiple attempts to transition to community-based programs, including here at Strawberry Fields. Despite her determination, each effort was interrupted by the need for a higher level of care due to self-harm and other obstacles. But Amy—and Strawberry Fields—were committed to her recovery, knowing that everyone’s path to healing looks different, and that sometimes it takes multiple efforts to get there.
After a hospital stay, Amy chose to return, again, to the CRR program at Strawberry Fields, and we were there to welcome her back with open arms. This time, she was placed in a more residential setting with greater access to green space and a more intimate environment, which helped her flourish.
Amy’s progress has been truly remarkable. She was honored as Strawberry Fields’ Consumer of the Year at the Making a Difference Awards, an achievement she describes as her first-ever recognition. Proudly accepting the award, Amy even gave a speech—something she never could have imagined when she first entered the program. She used the accompanying gift card to purchase books, fueling her passion for reading.
In her two years in the program, Amy has achieved goals that once felt out of reach. She now attends a vocational day program where she’s gaining administrative skills and has proudly taken on new roles, such as giving tours to newcomers—something she never imagined she could do early in her recovery. Amy has also become a talented cook, making dishes like chicken Parmesan and fajitas, and has learned how to advocate for herself both within the program and in her personal relationships. She is even beginning to think about her next steps after CRR.
Beyond her vocational and social achievements, Amy has discovered a passion for art. She dreams of one day showcasing her work in an art show—a testament to how far she’s come and how much her confidence has grown.
Amy credits Strawberry Fields for being a vital part of her journey. She’s proud to share her story, saying, "It's a good place to be. I’d tell anyone to choose Strawberry Fields because you guys have helped me so much."
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