In Jackson, St. Dismas Shines: Client Shore Shares His Journey of Hope, Recovery, and Gratitude

By Jackson Resident Monitors Bridgewater and Levy

At Dismas Charities, the walls don’t just hold people, they help rebuild them. And if you ask resident M. Shore, known fondly as “St. Dismas” by fellow clients and the Resident Monitors, Dismas Charities Jackson has been nothing short of life-restoring. “I feel much better personally than when I first arrived,” Michael said with a confident smile. “My overview of Dismas is certainly a positive. The house is clean, well-organized, and offers a new sense of freedom. I can move comfortably around the facility. I can drive again. Even the restrooms are a blessing.”

Coming from the isolating environment of prison, Michael describes his time at Dismas as a powerful emotional reset. A chance not only to prepare for reentering society but to rediscover parts of himself that were buried in confinement.

HEARTFELT SUPPORT SYSTEM
What truly stands out to Michael is the support network Dismas Charities provides. From programming, counseling, recovery meetings and reentry planning, he says the facility's commitment is genuine and deeply impactful. “I want to personally recognize Mrs. Smith and Ms. Johnson,” he said, lighting up. “Their patience has been exactly what I needed. I didn’t expect this level of kindness and charity from a halfway house. Even in a single session with Ms. Duckworth, I felt seen and respected.”

Client Shore has been in recovery for 35 years. He speaks with the wisdom of someone who’s walked through fire and come out tempered, not scorched. The pain of losing recovery friends and religious companions still lingers, but Dismas has helped him reconnect through frequent Zoom meetings. “These meetings have let me rejoin my community. My sponsor. My old friends. I’ve even made new ones. The staff worked with me to find quiet places for meetings. That kind of care? You can’t put a price on it.”

FELLOWSHIP RESTORED
Michael is quick to point out the most valuable gift he’s received since walking through the doors of Dismas: fellowship.

“I walked into my first AA meeting on July 10, 1990. I haven’t had a drink since. Recovery is about sharing experience, strength, and hope—and Dismas has given that back to me.” He calls the staff “100% supportive,” recognizing that his needs sometimes require them to adjust their routines. Still, he’s grateful to be treated with dignity again. “It’s not easy for them, but they do it. That respect means everything.”

A DEVOTED LIFE REKINDLED
Mr. Shore’s story is rooted in more than just recovery. He’s a devoted Catholic, a father of seven, a husband of 28 years, and a passionate advocate for life and service. “I’ve been active in the pro-life movement and many community projects,” he said. “God didn’t plan the darker parts of my story. That was evil’s doing. But the second I saw Dismas was a Catholic charity, I knew my life was coming back together.”

WALKING TO A HOLY FUTURE
As he prepares for the next chapter, Shore feels equipped and spiritually grounded. His goals are clear: take care of his family, serve the AA community, and worship God. “This place has reopened my life to everything that sustains me,” he said. “I’m walking away from here whole. With everything I need. Thank you, Dismas Charities.” -He has a message for staff, residents, and anyone considering the path of recovery: “You don’t know what recovery means to me. But you’ve made it available again. Keep the door open. Keep helping people heal. I’ll always be here to support you.”

From resident to beacon of hope, Mr. Shore—St. Dismas—is living proof that second chances aren’t just possible. They’re powerful.