“My name is Robert, and I’m a 46-year-old veteran.
“I had a situation that placed me where there was a difficult choice to make. I loved Kentucky, wanting to stay here instead of relocating to another state and beginning all over once again. I had no one to turn to for help.
“After explaining my situation to someone, they directed me towards St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter for Men. A good man welcomed me in, gave me a bed, and hope for a future.
“It’s been a great experience so far, living in Owensboro and growing to love this town more each day. Just as a family loves one another, we’ve had our high points and low points.
“Thank God that when I was low there were friends who lifted me up. The shelter was a godsend!
“During the low points I knew there would be a great dinner and a warm bed waiting for me each night. That thought alone was a great comfort and I share this very thought for others to consider when it seems no one cares.
“I’m glad the staff was there to oversee us, and it was a great pleasure working with the other men in the shelter.
“Loving our neighbor as ourselves, looking out for each other to create an environment to be as safe as it possibly can be was challenging and rewarding considering that there are men from all walks of life living together there.
“Eventually the staff convinced me to take advantage of living in St. Benedict’s Honor Home for Veterans. I’m glad to have the opportunity to work my way from the bottom up in Owensboro. Thank you, for loving me.”
Robert (2019)
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“I am writing this short letter to whom it may concern about the opportunity I was given to be a part of the Good Samaritan House.
“Around eight months ago, I submitted my application to live at the house and was then accepted, which was a pure blessing at the time since after completing the program at Owensboro Regional Recovery Center.
“I really didn’t know where to go from there, but I knew in my heart God wanted my new home to be Owensboro. I had just gained employment at Don Moore Chevrolet, so I was very happy to be able to stay in town.
“I moved in a little apprehensive but was met with loving open arms and treated better than I ever expected.
“The men and I became like family, helping each other grow in taking care of the daily chores and with responsibility in general.
“There was never a time that I needed any type of help that St. Benedict’s wasn’t there fast and in a hurry. I will forever be in their debt. While there, I was able to save enough money to get my own place, which is great since I am getting married soon.
“With that, I can never say thank you enough, but I am a person who shows his gratitude in his actions and will show others the same compassion and servant spirit that I was shown through the generosity of St. Benedict’s.”
Seth (2016)
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“Where to even truly begin other than gratitude, as I sit here writing this testimony about what St. Benedict’s and the Good Samaritan Home have done for me. I cannot believe where I am at today in my life. This process all started back in Owensboro, Kentucky.
“The very first time ever of hearing of Owensboro was the day I was moving there. Little did I know what would be in store for me — from building my life back to making lifelong friends, to be being of service to others.
“I came to Owensboro a battered, beaten, and broken man. I had no idea who I was or what I stood for in my life.
“I also had no idea where I was about to live for the course of the next year and a half. That is where St Benedict’s stepped in and offered me a helping hand.
“I met with an advocate from there, and he embraced me as his brother. At that point in my life, I was guarded and wary of anyone and everyone. Like a stray dog that had been abused, I didn’t trust anyone.
“I always thought they had a motive. Upon entering Owensboro and meeting the advocate and talking to him, I let my guard down slightly and became willing to do whatever it took to get my life back into semi-order.
“I moved into St. Benedict’s on July 20, 2013, and my life changed drastically.
“While I lived there, I had the opportunity to meet other clients and talk among them. I had the opportunity to meet the staff that so graciously cared for me in my time of despair, always uttering words of encouragement and giving advice.
“I moved out three days later to go to treatment, but I would return shortly due to some unruly behavior on my part. Three months later I found myself knocking on their door, asking if they had a bed available. They welcomed me with open arms, as true followers of Christ would do.
“I moved into my own home, where I was able to take all the lessons that I had learned through my stay at St. Benedict’s and the Good Samaritan Home. Eventually, I would get to a point where I was able to move back home to Atlanta, Georgia, and be of service to those down there including my family.
“That is where I am at today, but had it not been for the gracious and kind souls at St. Benedict’s and The Good Samaritan Home, I do not know where I would be today.
“Today though, I am a chef in Atlanta. I am following my dreams and my passion, living my life to the fullest and with the utmost gratitude for the second chance that has been bestowed upon me. I give back as much as I possibly can to my community because that is what was done to be.”
Nick (2014)