For Alicia Ruiz, addiction was more than just a struggle. It was the reason she spent years living on the streets of Tucson.

People just don't wake up one day and be like, oh, I'm gonna be a drug addict. No, they're substituting to cover up the pain instead of people seeing like why they're suffering.

Ruiz says she didnt realize help was just around the corner until she connected with Compass Affordable Housing, an organization that supports individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

They gave me the foundation to start, she explains, All I could see is a new beginning.

Unlike a traditional housing complex, Compass doesnt own property. Instead, they receive referrals from Pima County, the City of Tucson, and other local organizations. From there, they help match people with av

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