John's Restoration: A Story You Made Possible

My name is John. Several years ago, I was hungry, addicted to drugs, and homeless on the streets of New York. When I came to The Bowery Mission for the first time, I only expected a meal. But I found friends, love, and a program that promised to change my life. And I found God.

It worked. The Mission transformed my life. After I graduated, I moved to Buffalo. But many years later, the stress of working two jobs got to me and I started drinking and doing drugs again. It was painful seeing everything in my life fall apart. So I decided to come back to The Bowery Mission. When I walked through the doors, I was ashamed. But I was also determined to get it right this time.

Thanks to the spiritual guidance I received, I was able to get my life right with God again. I also opened myself up to the staff’s love and hospitality. Then, as I slowly began to heal, they connected me with a job, which not only gave me new skills, it helped me regain my confidence and hope. I lost all desire to ever use alcohol or drugs again.

Six months ago, I left the Mission with a brand new, higher-paying job, working as a cleaning supervisor in a large hotel in Manhattan. And because I’m a supervisor, I have the opportunity to hire other graduates from The Bowery Mission, giving them the same second chance I received! I’ve moved into my own apartment and I’m independent again!

When I first came to the Mission, I only came for a meal. But I found so much more. Thanks to God and The Bowery Mission, I got a new chance at life. Thank you!

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