When Aniel first walked through the doors of YESS, he was looking for more than just a place to stay—he was looking for a fresh start. His journey, like so many others, was filled with challenges, but it was also filled with resilience, growth, and hope. This is Aniel’s story.
Growing Up in Edmonton
Aniel was born in 1985 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton and grew up in the Mill Woods neighborhood. His early years were typical, but things began to change when he entered junior high.
“In my last year at TD Baker, I found myself getting into conflicts with everyone—teachers and students alike. At home, life was shifting as well. My mother had remarried, and I didn’t agree with her choice in a partner. I started hanging out with older, more troublesome people, and that led me down a difficult path.”
By the time he was 14, Aniel was struggling. He was couch surfing, disconnected from school, and engaging in substance use. The instability of his situation left him vulnerable, and he soon realized he had nowhere left to turn.
Finding Support at YESS
“That is when I found YESS—not by choice, but by necessity. I had nowhere to go, no food to eat, barely any clothes. At that age, living the lifestyle I had chosen, I easily could have ended up a statistic.”
YESS provided Aniel with the essentials—food, clothing, and a safe space. But more importantly, it offered him a path forward. Through partner programs and the unwavering support of staff, Aniel began to rebuild his life.
“This took time, and I had to be ready. Many times, I left on my own, only to return when I had burned bridges again. But the doors at YESS were always open. Whether I was there for a day or a week, they never shut me out. The staff understood the severity of what we were going through, and they were always there.”
Looking Back with Gratitude
Now, at 39, Aniel reflects on how far he has come. Life hasn’t always been easy, but he is proud of the journey he has taken.
“Being able to find my way with the help of YESS allowed me to still be here to write this. Every day, I wake up with gratitude. I have lost so many people along the way, but I am still here. Without places like YESS, I might not be.”
Why Support YESS?
Aniel’s story is just one of many. Youth facing crisis need a safe place, understanding support, and resources to help them build a better future. By supporting YESS, you are giving youth like Aniel the opportunity to find stability, hope, and a path forward.
Join us in making a difference. Become a monthly donor today.