Kevin's Story

From the Streets to Stability

Kevin’s journey began with a cascade of personal tragedies and losses: the betrayal of a longtime roommate, the death of his brother, the loss of employment, and the theft of his vehicle and ID. These events left him vulnerable, broken, and eventually living on the streets of Independence, Missouri. For years, Kevin wandered, struggling to regain stability while carrying the weight of grief and guilt. But even in his darkest moments, God was moving—protecting him, shaping him, and preparing him for something greater.

Kevin’s turning point came in the most unexpected place: a county jail cell. There, surrounded by fellow inmates holding Bibles and forming nightly prayer circles, Kevin encountered the love of Christ in a way that shifted everything. With a renewed sense of hope, a probation officer willing to listen, and the guidance of the City Union Mission and Baser Baptist Church, Kevin entered the Christian Life Program. Through consistent faith, support, and a newfound family of believers, he now walks in freedom and purpose. His story is a testament to God’s grace, the power of community, and the truth that it’s never too late to start living well.

Make an Impact on lives like Kevin's

Sheryl Haile serves as the Chief Program Officer at City Union Mission. She has diverse experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, program developer and professor with a BA in Sociology, an MEd in Counseling Psychology and a PhD in Psychology.  Foundational to her clinical practice and program development approach is the belief that faith does matter, full-healing of mankind comes only through Jesus and the integration of faith with psychology provides a powerful means to help those who are hurting and fulfill the commandment to love one another.