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In Sweetwater County, 24-year-old Nathan faces a tough reality. After failing a random drug test at work, he’s now unemployed and living on the streets of Rocksprings. With winter approaching, Nathan is determined to secure housing, food, a job, and transportation. While wandering the city, he spots an advertisement for Wyoming 211 on a park bench, highlighting its many resources. He heads to the local homeless shelter to call 2-1-1.
On the line, he speaks with Kim, a community resources specialist at Wyoming 211. She learns about Nathan’s long struggle with drug addiction and his current situation—losing his job and becoming homeless due to substance abuse. Recognizing his need for support, Nathan asks Kim for help.
Kim empathizes with Nathan’s struggles and assures him she’ll connect him to resources tailored to his needs. She first refers him to Southwest Counseling Service, which offers a four to six-month residential treatment program for severe substance use disorders called The Therapeutic Community. Kim reassures Nathan that this program will provide him with a safe environment away from the streets to focus on recovery. Nathan agrees, promising to contact them soon.
Food security is another pressing issue, given Nathan’s limited funds. Kim provides him with schedules for two local food banks: The Food Bank of Sweetwater County and Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen on Bridger Avenue, which can offer meals and fresh produce while he prepares for rehab.
Understanding Nathan’s concern about job loss, Kim suggests he reach out to Wyoming Workforce Services after completing his recovery. She knows they can help him explore career opportunities despite his recent unemployment. Transportation is also a challenge for Nathan since his truck was stolen. Kim informs him about The Star Transit, which offers affordable rides for just $1 per trip, giving him hope that transportation won’t be a barrier.
A week later, Kim receives a call from Nathan, who shares how transformative their conversation was. He tells her he has enjoyed meals from Loaves and Fishes and has started the Therapeutic Community program at Southwest Counseling Center. He’s also reached out to Wyoming Workforce Services to explore job possibilities. Nathan expresses gratitude for calling 2-1-1, realizing he’s not just connected to resources but to a sense of hope.
