Jermaine’s Story

Before coming to Middletown, my life looked very different. I spent most of my adult years in construction. I was in the union, owned a construction business, and had a nice home. After a painful divorce and other past traumas, I went to a dark place and turned to cocaine and alcohol to cope. 

I later achieved 18 months of sobriety and worked as an addiction counselor in Columbus. I used my story to help others, and helping them helped me. 

I left Columbus when I found a job with a paving company, and I moved to Middletown. 

Addiction is common in construction. During peak season, many of us work 15-16 hours a day, and during the off season, the sudden lack of income makes life difficult. While in Middletown, I relapsed. 

For a while, I lived in my car. I parked at hotels, ate continental breakfasts, and cleaned up in the bathrooms. After getting a DUI and losing my car, I lost my job. I knew I needed help.

Hope House told me I could come right away. They gave me clothes, food, and a safe place to rest. I am forever grateful. Hope House gave me space to heal, to unplug, and to get my mind, and body, right.

Through Hope House, I joined a men’s fellowship at Cobblestone Church in Lebanon. These men welcomed me around a campfire, shared their stories, and helped rebuild my faith. We pray together, read Scripture, and remind each other that God is not finished with us.

I have never been anywhere like Hope House. I have seen so many diverse churches with people who are African American, Caucasian, and Middle Eastern all coming together to love us. I believe love is what heals the world, and the world needs more places like Hope House.

I am grateful for the staff at Hope House. Dr. Foster helped me get an apartment, secured funding to help pay my court fees, and offered job support while I await paving season.

Chris Brim at Modern Psychiatry & Wellness worked with my union rep to confirm my sobriety, allowing me to return to work. 

I attended classes, including City Gospel Mission’s Employment Network, where they helped me with my resume. 

I am now back in good standing with the union and returning to work in April.

Today, I am sober for six months, moving into my own place, and rebuilding my life with humility, faith, and hope.