Most prisoners who reach House of Grace had never experienced a normal environment but have always been struggling since their youth with difficult oppressing reality leading to crime.

Abraham, 59 ex-prisoner, reveals the scars of childhood through adulthood: "From the age of 13, I had gotten caught up in drug abuse and confrontations with the law. Even at a young age my future didn't look promising. The following years of my life was unstable, I married at the age of 19, but after 20 years my self destructive behavior took a toll on my marriage and we finally divorced. I felt guilty for causing my family so much suffering over the years so in 1995 I decided to leave and haven't been in contact with my children since."

Abraham's life did not become any easier, his condition deteriorated into drugs and was sentenced two years and entered a rehabilitation facility where he underwent therapy and detoxification.

Only shortly after he completed therapy and about to finish his sentence the unexpected happened, "I started having severe pains in my stomach," tells Abraham, "after undergoing medical examinations, I was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in my spleen. As a result of my illness, the Rehabilitation Hostel I had applied to in Jerusalem denied my application. I found myself about to be released from prison and with no family or friends to provide me with a home."

Through our thorough work with social workers from prisons, Abraham's case reached House of Grace. Elias Sussan, our professional senior social worker, took immediate action and planned a rehabilitation program with Abraham in coordination with the responsible authorities.

"House of Grace is my home," says Abraham, "the love and respect I feel from the staff here helps me deal with the physical pain from my illness. Being here is a blessing, a gift from God.

Even with all the physical and emotional obstacles before me, House of Grace has given me the faith and strength I need to become a better person. I am proud of the progress I've made and for the first time I'm hopeful that one day I will reunite with my children."

Today Abraham is under medical surveillance and continues his treatment at the house. Our Prisoners Project continues to provide a ‘correcting experience' for individuals willing to take the steps needed to create a productive future. At House of Grace, they get the chance to reevaluate their lives, mend their past and create new goals. We encourage Abraham and other participants in our program to continue living up to their great potential.