Before his grandmother got sick, he lived on his own and had three jobs. He was doing so well that he didn’t hesitate to drop everything and move in with her to tend to her urgent needs.
Derrick’s grandmother had been an anchor during his tumultuous childhood, which was a painful journey that included a broken family, foster care, and children’s homes. So he was happy to be there for her as cancer claimed her fragile body and dementia claimed her mind.
But when her suffering was finally over, years had passed and the many doors that had once been open to Derrick were long since closed. He was still grieving when management at the apartment complex told him he had to leave. That’s when the realization hit him—
- Little money
- No job
- No place to call home
Derrick bit back the fear that gripped him. After all, he was a good worker . . . someone would hire and value him. So he pounded the pavement looking for a job, but after many rejections his last dollars and hope drained away . . .
People on the streets looked through him, not making eye contact. Derrick was homeless . . . he had become invisible!
Hungry and frightened, Derrick came through Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries’ (DRMM) doors. Thanks to your support, we offered Derrick a hot meal. Then we sat with him as he opened up about the loss of his grandmother and the hopeless situation he found himself in.
But DRMM is all about hope—especially at Easter! We told Derrick about Christ’s promise of new life, His infinite mercy and love, and how DRMM is just the place for a fresh start in life.
Thankful for food, a safe place to sleep, and help getting back on his feet, Derrick has dug in and devoted himself to the second chance he’s been given. He’s found hope and new strength in God. And he’s working every chance he gets, but he still has the time and energy to help others who turn to DRMM.
“This place is great,” Derrick says. “They have heat, good food, and staff that work hard and really care for us. They make sure you’re healthy in body and mind. If you need help with socks, clothes, or a resume, they want to help. They make you feel like you’re part of society and not invisible.”
Thank you for your compassion and generosity that gave Derrick a good hot meal, and the chance for hope and new life that Jesus gave us through His death and resurrection. You are a great blessing to our neighbors in need!