Melissa Diaz moved to Colorado from California fleeing from an abusive relationship. She previously worked for different health nonprofits but ultimately her own health took a toll on her.
Diaz said she eventually lost her housing and became homeless.
“Housing is vital. That’s where it all starts,” Diaz said. “When I was in California, I saw how mental health issues were tied to homelessness. You have to wonder if it’s tied to being in the street and the survival instincts that have to come along with that. When you’re in that position, you don’t go to the doctor. You don’t take care of yourself. You’re just living to survive the next day. Housing is where it starts.”
Diaz found that housing and told her story on a dreary yet inspiring day at the Viña Apartments, a new and affordable apartment complex in Elyria-Swansea, that’s been in the works since 2015.
Source: Denverite