What is more important: how you start, or how you finish?  

For Harry Robertson, Jr., the answer is crystal clear. At 56 years old, Harry has battled addiction for most of his life. In an amazing turnaround, he turned those challenges into assets and is now working with people in recovery. “It’s not how you start your life, it’s how you finish,” Harry says with a smile.  

Born and raised in DC, Harry had a long career as a mechanic with Amtrak. He also struggled with a substance use disorder that made it hard to stay connected with his family (Harry estimates that he participated in over 25 rehab programs). He never had a home of his own, but survived by staying with friends or in shelters. Harry eventually lost his job in 2010.

Despite not having a place of his own, Harry cared for his mom, who was fighting cancer. He finally achieved sobriety in 2017; one of Harry’s greatest joys is that his mother witnessed him achieve sobriety and that they shared two good years together before she succumbed to cancer in 2019.

Though Harry overcame his addiction, he still experienced homelessness and mental health challenges. He found comfort and stability in the form of a furry friend — a service dog named Box.

As he waited for a housing voucher, Harry began working part-time at the treatment center he previously attended as a client. He now serves in various roles in the treatment program. “I love doing what I’m doing” Harry declared. “I like working in the treatment area the best. I have firsthand experience, so I understand the clients and know how to support and challenge them.”

After five long years, Harry secured a housing voucher in September 2022 and was matched with Miriam’s Kitchen. Harry had two requests: that his home be near his job at the treatment program and that there was a dog park nearby. “Since day one, Shannan [Harry’s case manager] has been by my side the whole time,” Harry stated. “She has been my advocate and has helped me to keep pushing forward.”

Five months later, in January 2023, Harry signed a lease for an apartment! It’s a five-minute walk to his job and he walks Box in the park next door. Best of all, Harry can spend more time with his two precious grandchildren! The apartment is on the top floor, where Harry can see the Amtrak trains from his window. “My life has come full circle,” he said, remembering his first job at Amtrak long ago.

With his housing secure, Harry is now working on his next goal: becoming a Peer Specialist so he can help others rebuild their lives. “Every day I wake up humble and thankful,” he said. “It took me a long time to get started, but I’m determined to finish strong. Every day I wake up humble and thankful. It took me a long time to get started, but I’m determined to finish strong.”

Click here to donate to Miriam’s Kitchen and support more guests like Harry.