Recovering from a heart attack and stroke, John wasn’t able to work. Being that his previous job was out of state, he wasn’t able to collect disability either. So John lost all he had and became homeless.

John was not only homeless but hopeless as well. He says, “I was ready to give up. I had been sober for 11 years and I was ready to throw it all away because of my circumstances.”

He continues, “I bounced around from shelter to shelter. Then I called the mission, talked to Kenne, and met with John. The next thing I knew, I found myself here at the mission and I feel as though it saved my life. I have always looked for the light at the end of the tunnel and I think I found it. I feel like my eyes are on the ball. I feel focused for once in a very long time.”

“Since being here, I’ve learned to appreciate what Christ has done for me. I didn’t look at it that way before. I took it for granted or maybe I didn’t understand it. I have two kids in their twenties and I was selfishly thinking of walking away. Now I want to give back,” John continues.

Seeing the light, John now wants to carry the light to others. He states, “I am getting involved in the different ministries here. I want to be a part of this. I want to help spread the love for the homeless and the needy. I want to get shoes, socks, and coats for the needy for the winter. I have already gotten together with different churches to see if they can get involved. I also have a desire to study and become a Chaplain. People look at me and say I look like a biker or a hit man but I only want to fight for my life. I have the attitude now that I know that I will not give up. Being here gives me hope and I know God is not done with me yet.”

“Because of the donors, being here has been one of the best things that has happened to me,” says John. Thank you for brining light to John. Thank you for giving to the mission so we can bring light to others.