Tina Capote’s Story
Tina Capote knows what it feels like to believe the cycle may never end. For more than 15 years, Tina moved in and out of incarceration, struggling with addiction, homelessness, loss, and the painful belief that change might not be possible for her life.
While incarcerated at Elmwood’s women’s facility, Tina encountered messages of hope through the chaplaincy and others who reminded her that her story was not over. What began as a small opening toward hope slowly became a journey of recovery, healing, and transformation.
Today, Tina is over three years clean and sober, reunited with her children, and serving those experiencing homelessness in downtown San Jose. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of second chances.
At CIC Ministries’ 2026 GISI Volunteer Training, Tina shared her deeply personal journey and reminded volunteers that even the smallest act of compassion can help someone begin to believe that change is possible.
