When Jeramie got mugged on the streets last summer, it was the best thing that could have happened to him.

But we’ll let him tell the story:

“I was a single dad to four boys. One of my sons has a disability. I had to leave work often to take care of him. Eventually, I lost jobs because of missing too many days. Over the years, I started using street drugs to manage my thinking. At first, I was able to work, take care of the kids, and use. But finally it all caught up with me.

“I lost custody of my sons. I started sleeping in my drug dealer’s truck. Then he kicked me to the streets.

“The first night out there, I got mugged. Bleeding and broken, I managed to keep my cell phone. It was hard to ask for help, but I called my sister for a ride to the hospital. When I got out, I told my mom I had no place to go. She said, ‘I don’t want my son dead; walk down the street to Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities!’

“I was scared. What could I expect at a homeless shelter? But after awhile, I knew I had come to the right place. Everyone supports me here. The staff loves me and wants me to succeed. Now I am getting the help I need for my addiction and mental health. I am clean and sober, thanks to your gifts.

“Here, you’re providing a way for me to return the favor. I serve food to people who are homeless out of my own pocket and am active with the homeless through my church. Giving back helps my recovery.

“If I hadn’t gotten mugged last summer, I would still be struggling in hopelessness. If I didn’t receive your support, I’d be right back on the street and might even be dead. I am thankful for the blessings that keep coming my way because of your support of Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities.”

That’s a story your gifts make possible. You’re providing freedom from hopelessness!