Growing up as one of nine kids, Kyle often felt invisible in his own home. The fight for affection was a battle he frequently lost. “They couldn’t budget the time that we all needed. And there was unintentional neglect.” Starved for love, Kyle found that getting into trouble was the only way to grab his parents’ attention.  As a gentle boy, he learned that love sometimes hurt, especially when his dad, often drunk, punished him.

At 11, Kyle’s life got even harder when his mom left, leaving him and his siblings with their dad. Instead of comfort, his dad handed him a six-pack of beer. As Kyle grew up, his addiction tainted his marriage and affected his ability to be a good dad to his 3 kids. “I felt worthless. I felt like I failed my kids.” Losing them pushed him even deeper into sadness.

For ten years, homelessness wasn’t just a phase— it became his way of life. Addiction consumed him, pulling him deeper into isolation and shame. “I thought I would never be able to live inside again.” Kyle had become invisible. He had no connection to his family, his children, or God.

Then one day, in desperation, he cried out to God, “Take my life or change my life.” On the brink of giving up he reached out to the Rescue Mission. With the little will he had left, he arrived ready to leave the shadows behind and step into the light.  “I knew that God could continue the work He began when I cried out.”

Right away, the support from staff and students became a lifeline. Core classes and therapy helped him find peace and forgiveness. Living in community helped him to overcome social anxiety. “I’m able to socialize with people and tell my story.” Here, Kyle has learned what it truly means to be seen.

Kyle is also eager to be a good father. After nine years without contact, he recently met face-to-face with one of his kids. “I’m actively using the things I’ve learned here in my relationship with my older son.” He’s reestablished communication with his daughter and plans to reconnect with his youngest. One day, he hopes to have his kids live with him permanently.

Motivated to give back, Kyle found purpose in serving in the Mission kitchen.  He now works full-time as a faith-centered Outreach Advocate, helping those on the streets. He’s dedicated to his church and aspires to do ministry work in the future. Kyle is proud to graduate from Mission Academy and is grateful for God’s grace in his life.“God is the air I breathe. He’s the happiness I feel.”