Fred Jones: A Story of Hope and Success

Few people pass through the doors of Human Services Programs that have as poignant a story to tell as that of Fred Jones. He is truly an example of what the human spirit is capable of when given a chance and possessing a willingness and desire for change.

Fred's story started in 1995, when he decided that his long history of drug abuse would end. At the time, he was married and living in Baltimore City. His addiction had reached its peak, using drugs like heroin and cocaine multiple times each and every day. He would wake up in the morning feeling sick and depleted and literally remain in bed pleading for his former energetic life to return.

Fred made the conscious decision to go "cold turkey." He stayed holed up in his apartment for three weeks in physical and emotional agony as his wife nursed him through what he calls, "the absolute worst time of his life."

So-called friends would stop by and offer Fred drugs to ease his pain, but he steadfastly refused. Although Fred emerged clean and sober, the stress of the ordeal ultimately contributed to the demise of his marriage.

Fred remained drug-free and went on to remarry the love of his life in 1999. Sadly, a few short years later, his new wife passed away and Fred fell into a depression leading back to a life of drug abuse.

This bout with drugs continued on through 2008, when Fred contacted the Rescue Mission in Westminster where he had a friend who was a preacher. Knowing that he had to distance himself from Baltimore City and the temptations that existed, Fred applied and was accepted into the Rescue Mission program.

He was able to live there for a 6 month period and participate in the church activities they provided while he looked for employment. When his time at the mission ended, Fred moved into the Men's Shelter, managed by Human Services Programs. He was able to find full time employment which allowed him eligibility for permanent housing.

Unfortunately for Fred, his back gave out at work one day and he was taken to the hospital where he was diagnosed with an abscess that required surgery. The operation left him with little mobility and Fred was moved to a nursing facility in Baltimore City where he could recuperate. While there, Fred reconnected with an old friend who was the director of the nursing home. Her friendship inspired Fred to pull from his deep religious beliefs for comfort and healing. His physical healing followed, and he returned to Carroll County to finish what he had started.

Living the winter nights in Cold Weather shelter, Fred would make his way to On Our Own during the day to participate in their program activities. His time and efforts there were recognized and he now manages the facility and facilitates their 12 step program.

Because of his disability, Fred is a participant in the Permanent Housing program for people with disabilities. Now permanently housed, Fred is clean, sober and reaching out to help those who suffer from the same addiction issues that once plagued his life.

Fred is truly an example of perseverance and determination. His story is one of hope and success.