As a young man, Kevin spent time in prison in Utah and Illinois. The experience was so difficult for him, he never really recovered, until he happened through the doors of Northlands Rescue Mission years later.

When he was released from prison, Kevin had no idea what to do with his life. He had no money and no prospects, so he stayed in a homeless shelter. For the next six years, he was a transient, moving from one state to another, staying in homeless shelters, rescue missions and even church basements.

"Sometimes I slept in a park and lived on the streets," he recounts. "I was a heavy drinker. I gave up on myself."

Then a friend suggested to Kevin that he come to Grand Forks and Northlands Rescue Mission to get the help he needed to get back on his feet. That's exactly what happened.

One day, Kevin mentioned to our staff that he had a driver's license, so we hired him to drive our van. Having a steady job and a supportive, Christian environment was all Kevin needed turn his life around.

"I feel good. I have a steady job and self-esteem," he says. "I'm responsible and part of something. I've not missed a day of work since I started. People are depending on me."

With the income from his job, our caseworkers helped Kevin secure low-income housing, and today he has an apartment of his own. "This has helped me spiritually, getting a job and an apartment. The Lord is looking out for me; He has a plan for my life!"