FIRST STEPS PROGRAM Homeless Program Making A Difference
Reported by: Dave Benton
Videographer: Kenney Barnette
Web Producer: Dave Benton
Reported: Feb. 27, 2013 7:16 PM EST
Updated: Feb. 28, 2013 10:44 AM EST
EYEWITNESS ONLINE WEBCAST VIDEO C L I C K T O P L A Y
Huntington
, Cabell County
, West Virginia
The "First Steps" program behind the First Congregational Church of Christ is helping transform people's lives.
Sandy Gladue was a homeless addict, but now her life has turned around and she says "First Steps" made it possible. "I love the fact that I've transformed my life, and love to be here to talk to young girls and hopefully stop them from going down the wrong road like I did before it's too late."
The program is a community outreach resource center for the homeless. Consumers have access to computers and telephones for job search or even to get in touch with family. It's also a safe haven for people, a place to socialize or even build life skills.
Program Director Terry Collison said, "It really makes a difference. The information or support they get here you may not see a difference today or even tomorrow, but they take it with them with hopes one day it'll make a difference."
Jim Landers once lived under a bridge. Now, he considers members of "First Steps" family. "It's like home, we all care about each other, we all stick together."
Jeremy Lowe found himself on the streets, but the program helped him get into a home. "It helped me get away from the streets. We thank Miss Terry for it. If it weren't for her, we wouldn't have this."
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Dave Benton
