September 2024 Newsletter

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Freedom from Bondage

Martin’s stay at the Mission began as a legal requirement. It was part of an early release program from Community Corrections. As long as he stayed at the Mission, took court ordered classes, looked for employment, and stayed out of trouble, he had his freedom.After 120 days, which he successfully completed, he could then move out of the Mission to some other approved location.

He has been highly motivated to work his Action Plan, understand the reasons why things went wrong in his life, and not repeat them. Within a month of being at the Mission, he had a full­ time job, that he still has months later. Martin said, “The Mission provides three hots and a cot. You don’t have to worry about the next meal. They provide lunches to take to work, clothes, beds, rules, structure to help people get on the right track. I guess that’s tough love:’ He has purchased a car, caught up on some unpaid bills, and will be ready when its time to move on. In the meantime, he has helped several other men find employment.

From the conviction of the presence of the Lord at an early age, he strayed away later in life. Martin said, “I like the Mission’s Christian based view of the world. Chapel is integral to long lasting success. It provides the moral framework necessary. If my mom had not taken me to church, I wouldn’t have the background learned to pray. God has done everything for me, and has been there every step of the way. A great bunch of volunteers come in for chapel.”