Eric
Hi, My name is
Eric.
You have changed Eric’s life, and have invested in his life transformation. Last fall, we shared the first half of Eric’s story with you. When Eric hit rock bottom, he bought a bus ticket to Philadelphia and he came to Philly House for a meal and shelter. Three years later, through your continued support, Eric has found joy, hope, purpose and stability in his life once more.
“Without Philly House, I wouldn’t know what I would have become. They took me in and walked alongside me through everything,” Eric expressed with thankfulness in his voice. “I am so proud of myself. It was hard, but I am here now.” Eric had a happy childhood. Sadly, just after his high school graduation, Eric’s mother passed away unexpectedly. “After my mom’s passing, I grew up real fast,” Eric remembers.
Eric began working to support his younger siblings, and after twenty-five years as a firefighter, Eric became homeless when his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) became unmanageable.
During his time in our NEXT LEVEL Program, Eric developed a heart of compassion. Eric has served as a mentor to men in need of encouragement and he tries to help them become a fighter against whatever struggles they may be facing.
Two years after first coming to Philly House for help, Eric is working through his PTSD every day, “I live each day for God, I lean on him when things get hard,” Eric shared with tears in his eyes.
“Through God’s work in his life, Eric has found peace. “Because of my job, I have learned to be patient and how to be flexible. Most of all I have discovered new energy for each day,” Eric shared with a big smile.”
Everyone at Philly House plays a role in serving and encouraging one another. Eric expressed his thankfulness to the volunteers for encouraging him while at work. Eric shares, “Every Wednesday, I worked with Kit and Phil and they are great volunteers. We built a team together.” He continues, “Now, every time there are volunteers at Philly House, I say thank you and God bless you because I know firsthand how hard they work.”
Philly House is blessed to have Eric on staff. He is flourishing, achieving independence and growing in his faith. Your commitment to meeting Eric’s spiritual and practical needs is a true gift and is life-changing. Eric is now in a permanent supportive housing program that provides him with the wrap-around support he needs to continue to face the day-to-day challenges that PTSD brings.
Providing Unconditional
Refuge and Hope
Help us provide hope to the homeless, hungry and hurting of Philadelphia.
