James, a U.S. Navy veteran, loved life — with a job, three children and happy marriage — but his struggles with addiction and mental illness eventually caused him to leave behind what he loved most.

James was homeless and without a plan when he learned about St. Patrick Center’s Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program from a fellow veteran. He enrolled and with the program’s help, found employment and housing, and eventually reunited with his family. “I used everything I learned at St. Patrick Center to rebuild my life.”

In this December 6, 2018, Show Me St. Louis segment, Dr. Smylie, now a member of St. Patrick Center’s board of directors, shares his story of hope.

One of eight federated Catholic Charities of St. Louis agencies, St. Patrick Center provides opportunities for self-sufficiency and dignity to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Individuals and families build permanent, positive change in their lives through safe and affordable housing, sound mental and physical health, and employment and financial stability.