In Birmingham, The Jimmie Hale Mission is best known for feeding the hungry and homeless. Yet with housing, job readiness, and the teaching of the Gospel, the meals they serve are just the beginning of a changed life. James Poe is just one of the thousands who have returned to a life filled with hope. Here is his story:
God called my mother to support the Jimmie Hale Mission for over 40 years. I’m certain she never thought her own son would need it. For when I turned my back on God, things fell apart. I arrived at the Mission’s Shepura Men’s Center broken and needing help. My personal rebellion through drugs and alcohol resulted in my wife kicking me out. I went from a great family life with two beautiful children and a terrific job, to no family and no future.
God brought me to the Jimmie Hale Mission. There, I learned it’s not about me, but about what He has done 
and what He has planned for me. I also took classes through the Mission’s Stewart Learning Center to get my life and career back on track. I am now blessed and proud to work at New Faith Baptist Church as Minister of Music. Just as importantly, I reunited with my wife, Theresa, and my family. My wife and I renewed our vows on February 14, 2012. I also feel blessed to be on the Jimmie Hale Mission staff. I joined the staff in 2012 and now worked as Kitchen Supervisor. So today, I look at men on the other side of the serving line … men who are where I once was.
God used The Jimmie Hale Mission to restore my soul, even though I thought I was past the point of no return. With God’s direction, and with the help of the Mission, I am now the father, son, husband and employee that He always intended me to be. Through God’s saving strength, the Jimmie Hale Mission has helped make a difference for countless men and women. And it all began with a meal. To help nourish and sustain those who need it most, please visit www.jimmiehalemission.com.
