Michael’s early childhood was stable and safe, raised by his single mother and grandparents. But as a teenager, his life began to change. “When I got to high school, I started getting into drugs,” he says. Before long, that path led him to drop out of school.
Home life became difficult. “My stepfather and I didn’t have the best relationship,” Michael recalls. “I ended up in the streets, hanging with kids I shouldn’t have been hanging with.” Though his grandmother cared deeply for him, Michael admits, “I was pretty much on my own.”
Over time, his substance use escalated. “I started off smoking and drinking, and then eventually I got into harder stuff.” The consequences were serious. “I got pretty close to overdosing a couple of times. I could’ve died doing that.”
Though Michael worked as a cook and laborer, addiction began tearing his life apart. “I ended up in jail and lost everything that I had,” he says. After his release, depression set in.
“I’ve become more peaceful and more caring.”
At the Allentown Rescue Mission, Michael began rebuilding his life. Through Bible studies, his faith has grown. “I’ve grown a lot spiritually,” he says. Working on the Clean Team has also helped him gain new skills and confidence. “They gave us a job here and we’re able to save money,” he explains.
Today, Michael feels renewed. “Since I came to the Allentown Rescue Mission, I feel like I’ve found new purpose in life,” he shares. “I’m healthier, happier and very grateful to be here.”
Because of you, neighbors like Michael know that God loves them and they are worthy of a new beginning. Thank you for opening the door to hope and healing this summer! “Being here has helped me get back on my feet and feel better about my life and my future.”