For the first time in his life, Mike has a permanent place to call home and a community he calls “family.”

After growing up in an orphanage and struggling through the foster care system, Mike had an extremely challenging start to life. Eventually, he developed a drug problem and faced homelessness. He began breaking into homes out of desperation for food and shelter, then ended up in prison.

taken by Director of Reentry, Greg Washington

While serving time, Mike decided to sign up for our TYRO Reentry program— he was “hoping for a change.” He met Greg Washington, our Director of Reentry, and became our very first TYRO individual to go through our transitional housing program in 2021. We were able to give him a cell phone, transportation, and a temporary rental home.

Now, after two years of holding two steady jobs, building his credit, saving up, staying sober, buying two cars, and working hard, Mike has officially secured permanent housing!!

Mike says TYRO gave him hope and he “started to believe.” Best of all, he considers City of Refuge the family he never had. Mike is a testament to the power of second chances and trusting first. Congratulations Mike, and welcome home! #CityofRefuge

Read more at City of Refuge (cityofrefugeatl.org)

 

Written by Talley Davidson, Marketing Project Manager for Atlanta-based 501(c)3 nonprofit, City of Refuge, Inc.

Picture of City of Refuge

City of Refuge

City of Refuge is a faith-based environment that helps individuals and families transition out of crisis.