Before coming to the Durham Rescue Mission, my life was in shambles and my marriage was falling apart. I blamed the world for all the things that happened to me in life and I was angry with God for letting it happen. From being molested as a child to the death of my son at only four days old, I believed God did this to me. So, for years I carried that anger around with me, I made many life decisions for my family through that anger. Of course many mistakes were the result and on August 24, 2012 my husband, daughter and I came to the Durham Rescue Mission Good Samaritan Inn. I remember it like it was yesterday, the feeling of relief I got when we walked through those doors. My anger was released.

Coming to the Mission was supposed to be about us just having a place to stay. The only thing we wanted from this place was a bed to lay our heads. Thankfully, the Durham Rescue Mission had so much more to offer us. From the teaching we received through the Victory Program, to the biblical counseling that brought our marriage closer together. We were taught to see ourselves as God saw us. We learned that there was a better life out there waiting for us, a life above in the future, and promise. The Durham Rescue Mission saved my life and helped to save my marriage.

My family and I have been at the Good Samaritan Inn for over a year now. And in that time we have made some great friends, we have had  the opportunity to grow closer to one another; we have become a part of a wonderful church family and, have grown closer to God. From the day we came to the Mission to now, we have been blessed beyond all explanation. Both my husband and I have graduated the Victory Program and now I’m in College! I am in my sophomore year at North Carolina Central University where I will receive my degree in Early Childhood Education; in hope of one day opening my own Christian daycare center. I am also currently employed providing quality life services for seniors with intellectual disabilities. My husband has completed his training through a program at Durham Technical Community College in the field of telecommunications. And is in the process of beginning his internship with Time Warner Cable. But, the best part of all of this is that we are now also full of the confidence that comes with knowing that we are God’s children.

I thank God for all He has done for us and I want to thank the many donors who give their time and money to a place that has helped us learn to live and lead better lives with the Lord’s guidance. With the help from your donations the doors of The Durham Rescue Mission were open to us. Thank you.