Inmate Comments on the Houses of Healing Class

Andrew served his country in Afghanistan, struggled with PTSD, became addicted to heroin, and experienced legal problems that connected him with the Oberlin Municipal Court, Elyria Municipal Court, Lorain Municipal Court, and Lorain County Common Pleas Court. This individual initially contacted The Salvation Army Oberlin Service Unit to receive food assistance. As a result of the intake process, and the sensitivity of the Life Skills Program Assistant, Stephanie Walker, this individual was encouraged to become involved with the Life Skills program. The program helped the client gain entrance into The Salvation Army Harbor Light detoxification program. After a successful stay at the Harbor Light facility, Mark Fahringer transported the client to The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center for follow-up rehabilitation. The client successfully completed the detoxification program, and graduated from the first two phases of the rehabilitation program. Practically speaking, the client gained 50 pounds during his detoxification and rehabilitation experiences, helping him to become physically healthy. During the client’s stay at the ARC, Mark Fahringer advocated for the client with all the Lorain County court entities, thus preventing the client from serving prison time for his drug offenses. This individual continues to progress in his efforts to experience emotional, physical, and spiritual healing.