 Real People.
Real Hope.
Real Change.
The Denver Rescue Mission’s New Life Program is
a national model for long-term rehabilitation programs.
Integrating spiritual and emotional counseling, academics, Bible study,
and work therapy, the program gives people
with histories of abuse, addiction, and
homelessness an opportunity to
become self-sufficient, productive members
of society.
Approximately 200 men and women currently take part in the program
at Lawrence Street, Champa House, or
Harvest Farm. The New Life Program at Lawrence Street has moved to The
Crossing and has expanded from 80 to
133 individuals.
While other organizations charge from $6,000 to $19,000
for a 30- to 90-day rehabilitation program, the Mission’s
New Life Program provides one of the country’s most comprehensive
long-term rehabilitation programs at no
charge and only asks that participants “give their best.” There
is always a waiting list of people eager to enter the
program and begin building their new lives.
 As they progress through the five-phase New Life Program—which
lasts from 12 to 27 months—men and women
return to self-sufficiency by overcoming addictive habits, building employment
and life management skills, and developing
strong ties in the Christian community. Fifty-two people graduated
from the program last year.
During their time in the New Life Program, participants are involved in:
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Spiritual development. Through chapel services, prayer,
Bible study, and involvement in a local church,
men and women develop support relationships that are crucial to their
continued healing and growth
after graduation.
-
Christian counseling. Professional counselors and chaplains help each
person examine and overcome
his or her addictive habits, confront the past, and find the strength
to change.
-
Education. Residents further their education in a computer-enhanced
learning setting
where people can improve their literacy skills, pursue a GED, learn to
use essential computer programs,
brush up on existing career skills, or prepare for college. After completing
the LifeSkills, Education & Career Center curriculum, interested students can take correspondence courses
or attend off-site college or
trade school classes.
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Work therapy. Tending to the day-to-day operations of the Lawrence
Street Shelter, Harvest Farm, or
Champa House helps residents develop the work ethic and life skills that
they need for a lifetime of successful
employment.
-
Case management. Residents meet weekly with their counselor and/or
chaplain for assistance with
spiritual, physical, psychological, legal, financial, educational, and
employment issues. Working together,
they develop a transition plan that includes strategies for employment,
education, housing, church and
community involvement, and personal growth and accountability after graduation.
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