Finding Hope and a Fresh Start: Leslie and Joseph’s Journey at Trinity Rescue Mission
Life is full of challenges, and for Leslie, these challenges often felt insurmountable. Struggling with addiction throughout her life, Leslie found herself in and out of prison, each time distancing herself further from the stability she longed for and putting a strain on her relationships. These hardships took a toll on her emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being, leaving her in desperate need of a fresh start.
In search of stability and a safe place, Leslie, along with her son Joseph, walked through the doors of Trinity Rescue Mission’s Women and Children’s Center (WCC). At Trinity, Leslie found more than just a place to stay, she found a community ready to support her in rebuilding her life.
Leslie's journey at Trinity began in the Emergency Services Program, but it quickly became apparent that she was ready for more. She transitioned into the Center's Transitional Program, where she fully immersed herself in the process of personal and spiritual growth. Through the program, Leslie was able to confront her struggles head-on, viewing them through a biblical lens that gave her the strength to persevere. A key part of her transformation was her participation in the KIRR (Kingdom Influence Recovery Reform) Program, a specialized course designed to address addiction through faith-based principles.
As she progressed through the Transitional Program, Leslie successfully completed the Lifeline material and graduated from KIRR's Recovery Program. These accomplishments were more than just milestones, they were proof of the internal work Leslie had committed to. Her dedication and hard work didn’t go unnoticed. Leslie was able to secure and maintain employment, a critical step towards gaining the financial stability that had eluded her for so long. With each paycheck, she chipped away at barriers from her past, including a previous eviction, and began to build a foundation for her future.
Throughout her stay at Trinity Rescue Mission, Leslie’s commitment to her faith, patience, and hard work became evident to everyone around her, especially her son Joseph. Leslie’s journey wasn’t just about personal recovery, it was also about instilling the same values in her son. By living out her faith and embracing the opportunities provided to her, Leslie was able to show Joseph the importance of resilience and trust in God's provision.
About a month ago, Leslie and Joseph reached a significant milestone—they moved into their own non-subsidized apartment. With a healthy savings of over $15,000, Leslie is starting this new chapter of her life with the financial freedom and stability she has worked so hard to achieve. But their story doesn’t end there. Leslie has taken on a second job, and Joseph is thriving in school and extracurricular activities. Recently, Leslie took another important step in her spiritual journey by getting baptized. She continues to receive counseling and discipleship through the KIRR program, which offers ongoing support to graduates who desire continued growth and cultivation.
Leslie’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith, hard work, and the right support system. At Trinity Rescue Mission, she found the tools she needed to rebuild her life, and, in the process, gave her son a brighter future. As Leslie and Joseph continue to thrive, their journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with determination, faith, and help from God, new beginnings are always within reach.
