Jacob P.

“Never give up” is the motto that Jacob P. lives by. As he shared his story with me, tears of gratitude filled his eyes as he expressed his deep appreciation for the compassion and support he received from Liz and Donna at One Hopeful Place (OHP).

Jacob was working tirelessly to make ends meet when a family crisis struck, leaving him homeless and sleeping on the doorsteps of St. Andrews Church (Blue Door) in Destin. Desperate for help, he was directed to contact OHP and immediately got on the waitlist for a bed. To his relief, he received a call from Liz that very same day with the good news—a bed had opened up. Without hesitation, Jacob rode his bike to OHP and began his journey toward rebuilding his life.

During his two-month stay at OHP, Jacob was provided with a structured plan and the resources he needed to get back on his feet. He worked diligently, saving money and setting goals for his future. “They do exactly what they say they’re going to do,” Jacob said. “I learned to set goals and was given the opportunity to achieve them here at One Hopeful Place.”

As he continued working in Destin, Jacob saved enough to prepare for a reunion with his family in Arkansas, where he has now secured a job. He looks forward to volunteering at his church, where he plans to support others facing difficult times, reminding them, just as he was reminded, to never give up.