Alan B. spent five years in prison for drug trafficking. After serving his time, he spent 13 years homeless, living mostly on the streets, under bridges in Reading, PA, or in his vehicle. During this time, he worked various construction jobs as a foreman and stonemason until his life changed again in 2016. Alan was walking home when his counselor stopped and offered him a ride. Before he could fasten his seatbelt, the car was struck from behind. Alan suffered injuries to his head, jaw, and sternum and spent time in a behavioral health institution. When he was released, Alan needed a place to stay to get back on his feet and came to the Allentown Rescue Mission.
Alan felt that the Transformation Program was a great refresher course for principles and skills he had forgotten over the years. He graduated from the program and was able to move out of the Mission with the help of disability from his accident. He hopes to eventually find part-time work to keep him busy.
