From Felon to Freedom: How Justin “Changed Dramatically”
A year ago, City of Refuge officially opened The 345, a housing program for men at high risk of homelessness. These are the stories of some of its residents.
Born to parents who immigrated from Mexico in search of a better life, Justin’s childhood was filled with hardship. His father was absent, leaving his mother to play both parental roles. They lived in trailer parks with their stepdad, and the household was marred by abuse and alcohol. The instability led to Justin being sent to live with his biological father in North Carolina, where he was exposed to drug use and further neglect.
School was never a priority for Justin. He frequently skipped classes and eventually fell behind, repeating third grade multiple times before moving on. This educational disruption, combined with his exposure to drugs and alcohol at a young age, set the stage for further troubles. By the age of 13, Justin was already on probation, a status that persisted for much of his young adult life.
In 2018, Justin faced two years in prison for two charges of aggravated assault with a weapon. He ended up taking a plea deal for a first offender charge. Over the next few years, Justin was in and out of prison for brief spells.
But Justin’s turning point came when he was sentenced to a year in prison for a separate felony charge. “When I got sent to prison, it was a whole different world,” he recalls. “You see the movies, and you don’t think it’s like that, but it’s worse than that. It’s ten times worse. They really degrade you. They take the human part of you away. I feel like I lost a piece of me.”
Upon his release, Justin struggled to reintegrate into society. He felt disconnected and defensive, even towards those trying to help him. His behavior led to further legal troubles, and he found himself facing another significant prison sentence. However, this time, his prayers for a different path were answered.
Justin was eventually referred to City of Refuge, where he found a supportive community that helped him begin to rebuild his life. “The people here, they saw something in me that I didn't see in myself,” he said.
Living at The 345, City of Refuge's men’s housing program, provided Justin with the stability he desperately needed. The Resident Advisors—Terrence, Bruce, and Willie—played crucial roles in his transformation. “Seeing them and hearing their stories, it lets me know that the journey doesn’t stop here,” he shared.
The structured environment at The 345 and the positive reinforcement from the staff and fellow residents helped Justin stay focused. He completed various programs, including the low-voltage cabling installation course, which is what he does for work now.
City of Refuge’s positive environment has also impacted his ability to connect with others. “Just being here has made me able to open up a little bit more to people,” he said. He now participates in Celebrate Recovery meetings, which provide ongoing support and encouragement.
Justin has also reconnected with his family, particularly his younger brother, with whom he is working on building a business. “I've changed tremendously. I don't try to fight random people anymore. I don't let a lot of stuff get to me. I was never like that before.”
Reflecting on his journey, Justin is deeply grateful for the support he received at City of Refuge. “Anybody I've ever encountered in my life was always trying to take something from me. I don't feel that energy here at all…If I could, I would shake everybody's hand. The help that they provide is truly making a difference.”
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