Thanksgiving was meant to be enjoyed with family and friends.

So what happens when your addiction to drugs has burned all the bridges to the past and now you have nothing?

In Philip’s case, his “rock-bottom moment” prompted him to seek the help that he thought he would never need — before his life got any darker.

“I had been smoking (crack) all day and I wanted some more dope, but nobody would give it to me,” he remembers. “That’s when I gave up, telling myself, ‘You know what? I’m tired. I can’t do this anymore. I’m done. I’m tired of living like this.”

Philip came to Union Rescue Mission hoping we could help him get sober — and stay sober — in ways other programs couldn’t.

Not only did he find long-term sobriety here, but he’s working to make a difference in his old neighborhood with others who used to be rivals in different gangs.

“As part of the Compton Initiative, we’ve been all together painting houses and cleaning up the old neighborhood,” he says. “One thing about old gang members: we’re loyal and we’re proud. Now we’re channeling that into something positive for the city of Compton, where I grew up.”

Philip has grown in other ways, too, since coming to URM.

After his father died, he’s rediscovered his faith with the help of our chaplains. “God has forgiven me. I need to learn to forgive myself.”

He’s also grown close to other men at the Mission whom he considers “my brothers” after all the advice they’ve given him.

Then there is his newest group of friends: the families who come to the Mission for something to eat. As a chef in URM’s kitchen, he loves feeding the children. What really lifts his spirits, though, is encouraging moms and dads, especially those who feel like they’ve failed their kids.

“I tell them it’s going to be okay. Don’t give up,” Philip says. “I want them to know help is here. Don’t be afraid to ask.”

Going into Thanksgiving, he’s an entirely new person.

“Overall, I’m just happy,” he says. “I’m thankful the Mission has helped me experience renewal.” He’s especially grateful for donors who give to see lives changed.

“I just want them to know it’s working,” he adds.

This Thanksgiving, every gift of $2.54 provides a meal. PLUS it gives hope that can start someone down the path to new life.

If you have blessed this past year, be a blessing to someone coming off Skid Row and give a generous gift today.

You’ll not only help provide a meal, you might help someone break an addiction, heal from trauma, or find the support they’ve needed to get off the streets for good. Thank you for your support!