Bonded by Hope: Gabriela and Kilos' Journey

“I know I’ll go far because I’m already further than I ever imagined.”

Pictured: Gabriela Manriquez at a San Jose encampment

Pictured: Gabriela and her dog Kilos celebrating five years of sobriety

HomeFirst’s Training Manager, Gabriela Manriquez, is proof that with the help of supportive services, major life change is possible.

In 2017, Gabriela lived in one of San Jose’s largest homeless encampments. Trauma, a lack of work, relationship difficulties, and substance use led to her living outside. What she found was a place where she felt accepted by people who were struggling with similar life challenges. On the streets is where Gabriela met her most important, and life-changing friend—her dog Kilos. The deep bond they had and reliance on each other was what motivated her to seek sobriety and permanent housing.

It took being separated by time in jail for Gabriela to commit herself to making significant life changes. She spent months living in transitional housing, participated in intensive outpatient classes, enrolled in a work readiness program, and eventually joined the HomeFirst team.

Gabriela’s success shows just how possible it is to change your life if you are given the opportunity and support you need.