Beating the Odds: William’s Story

Sometimes, it takes certain circumstances to bring about change in your life. After spending time in prison, William knew that he wanted to change his life and “beat the odds”.

William came to Union Mission through the Re-Entry Partnership Housing Program after spending years in prison. With the help of his parents and Mr. Robert Simmons of The Department of Community Supervision (DCS), William was able to enter the program in January of 2019 after being released from prison. The program helped by providing clothing, housing, and meals for 90 days while he transitioned, helping him get back on his feet. William states, “If it wasn’t for Robert Simmons and Joi Baker of Union Mission providing transitional living, I don’t know how I would have made it. They help me see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

“They helped me mentally and emotionally get in the right direction.”

Five months after being released from prison, things are definitely looking up for William. He is currently employed, just got his license back, and has moved into his own apartment. He has reestablished a relationship with his daughter, and will even be taking her to Disney World this summer. He says that he has learned that “good things can happen doing it the honest way.” When asked what he would say to others in similar situation, William states that “you have to make a decision to change the way you are living. You have to choose what you want to do with your time and try.”