To whom this may concern, 

My name is Cole Garner, I entered recovery for the first time in 2011. After a 30 day program here in Winchester, Virginia I moved straight into an Oxford house and it gave me a sense of home. After I left Oxford and moved back home into an unsafe environment I relapsed multiple times. Since entering Oxford House Apple Blossom at the beginning of 2026 I once again felt at home. I was surrounded by strong women in recovery who showed me how to live again. This time and every other time I’ve lived in an Oxford house I have succeeded. Being shown how to responsibly pay bills, go to meetings, work the steps, get a sponsor and follow basic rules I have gained my life back. I am one of so many that has had my life changed by being in and involved in Oxford. I believe getting rid of the Oxford House organization as a whole would be detrimental to addicts and alcoholics like myself. It creates a sense of belonging and urgency to get our lives back that we so desperately needed and eventually start to believe that we deserve. It gives people that get out of rehabs and 30 day programs a safe environment to rest our heads instead of inserting ourselves back into old lifestyles or habits. I’m not sure the reason for wanting to get rid of Oxford but I don’t believe it would be beneficial to anyone in recovery or the families involved in our lives. Please take into consideration all the lives that have been saved like mine and all of my loved ones. 
Thank you for your time, 
Sincerely Cole Garner