I began working with the Merced Rescue Mission two years ago as a Peer Navigator in the Bridge to Hope program. Since then, I have been a Service Coordinator, and now I am a Program Manager. During this time, I have witnessed many blessings through this program. The Bridge to Hope program is a harm reduction program. We meet the participants where they are with their struggles and help them overcome those obstacles and succeed in life. The staff work with participants according to their individual needs.

One participant that stands out came into our program broken, lost, and without hope. He had been through multiple programs without success prior to coming to us. His struggles were very severe, and he was about to lose custody of his children. He had been shot and his brother had been murdered. Homelessness and drug issues, along with his poor health, made it difficult as a single parent with no social support or income to provide stability for his children. This extremely traumatized, yet headstrong, young man was able to accept the love and support that was given to him by the staff. Through challenging work and taking suggestions, he has stayed clean, gained employment and housing, and regained custody of his children. He fought hard for all his achievements. Today, he is the proud father he always wanted to be!

The staff at Bridge to Hope witness progress on a daily basis. Our goal is to reach participants and help them face and overcome their obstacles. We are encouraged by the HOPE we continue to see as the participants achieve their goals.

Mark,
Service Coordinator,
Merced Rescue Mission