Finding Safety, Faith, and a Future: Luke's Journey to Transformation

When Luke arrived at the Augusta Rescue Mission, he was worn out from

struggling to stay afloat. After losing his rented room and spending everything he

had on a hotel, he found himself with just twenty dollars left—and no place to turn.

“I couldn’t keep doing it,” Luke said. “I knew I needed to make a change.”

Originally from Washington State and Idaho, Luke had long dreamed of

starting fresh somewhere new. A train ride from Washington, D.C., changed

his path when a fellow passenger—also homeless—mentioned Augusta. “I

believe it was God who led me here,” Luke shared.

He first came to the Mission seeking overnight shelter. What he found

surprised him. “The biggest thing I received was the feeling of safety,” he

said. “I knew I wasn’t cut out to sleep on the streets.” That stability allowed

him to take the next step and apply for the Life Transformation Program.

“Entering First Steps was eye-opening. I didn’t realize how much God could

be involved in every aspect of life,” Luke said. “As the weeks went on, I knew

this is what I truly needed. I was lost and wandering.”

With food, a bed, and laundry provided, Luke could focus on building a

healthier life and a stronger faith. He found joy working in the kitchen and

checking in guests at the front desk.

Now preparing to enter Phase 2, Luke hopes to get a job while continuing

to serve on weekends. “My morals have strengthened. It’s like I’ve returned

to who I was when I was little. I just want what God wants for me.”

His encouragement to others is simple: “Give it a shot—what do you have to

lose? All things work together for those who love God.”

And what has God given him at Augusta Rescue Mission? “Joy for the future.”