Client Stories

Dwain is a resident of Portland Rescue Mission's New Life Recovery program.

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Dwain's Story

I was raised in an alcoholic family. Both my father and grandfather were alcoholics and I was a functioning alcoholic for most of my adult life. About six years ago, after spending many years burning the candle at both ends, everything came crashing down. My father died, I lost my home and was fired from my job. I had nowhere to go and ended up homeless. I tried a couple of different treatment programs but nothing seemed to help me out of my additions. I was in a dark place and could find no way out.

I came to the Mission for something to eat and a place to stay out of the cold. I was introduced to their long-term program by some of the clients and the staff. I really didn't know if I wanted to be in a program. I didn't want others telling me what to do. But I felt burdened to stay. There was something different here. People really cared.

I spent most of my life believing that I would never amount to anything and that I would be stupid for the rest of my life. Why? Because that's what everyone I knew kept telling me. Now I know those things are not true. I'm in a learning program. Sometimes it can be difficult to learn new things, but now I know how to persevere.

The program here is different from the others I've been in. We deal with the root causes of our addictions. This is a biblically based program. I know I need Christ at the center of my life if I ever want to make anything out of my life. I was baptized last year. My life is better with God.

The Portland Rescue Mission has shown me I can trust people again. I have found people who really care about me, no matter what happens. I am thankful for everything that I have learned here. I know how to have a true relationship with God and with others. After completing the program I look forward to living life with friends, family and being a productive member of society.