Renewal Story: Christopher

As an Army Veteran, Christopher had strong values and a sense of discipline. However, after five “lost years” in California, he was addicted to alcohol. He returned to Texas and had a falling-out with his family that left him living in a series of motels. When his car broke down, life became unmanageable. “I dug myself a deeper hole. Things fell apart,” he recalls.

Christopher was out of money — but not out of options. On the street, he heard about Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County. He stayed here as an overnight guest, but was reluctant to join the program. “My mindset was, ‘I’m not that guy!’” However, he knew making a commitment was the only thing that could keep him from becoming “that guy” … and he enrolled in the Skill Building Program.

The first thing he told his case manager was, “I want to get out of here.” Homeless for the first time in his life, he wanted it to be the last — and he was anxious to get back on his feet.

“I chose to be here,” Christopher says. “It was my obligation to make the best of it, and that’s what I did. I made my time here count, and I was relentless in fighting for my happiness and sobriety.”

Today, thanks to your support, Christopher is moving into his own apartment, with plans for a house within a year. He is also taking steps to gain custody of his 14-year-old daughter. “She is my inspiration. I am going to succeed,” he says.

“So much has changed for me in a short time. Miracles do happen! I wake up in the morning with a plan and a goal. I’ve achieved a lot. And wherever I go, I just want to do the best I can.”