Port City Refuge First Steps

Big transformations don't happen all at once—they begin with one brave first step. Today, we had the privilege of walking alongside another gentleman as he began the journey toward securing the identification he needs.

We are so proud of his willingness to take this next step, and we can't wait to celebrate each milestone along the journey. We give all the glory to God for making moments like these possible. He is so good!

Want to be part of this journey?
👉 Volunteer or donate at www.firststepspcr.org

Every step forward is worth celebrating, and today was no exception! 🎉

We had the honor of encouraging another gentleman as he took a meaningful step toward a brighter future by beginning the journey to secure the identification he needs. Moments like these may seem small to some, but they can open the door to greater independence, new opportunities, and a fresh chapter in life.

Want to be part of this journey?
👉 Volunteer or donate at www.firststepspcr.org

Today we had another gentleman take a big step towards new opportunities!! He is on his way to getting important government documents.

Sometimes the biggest accomplishments begin with what seems like a simple first step. Today marks progress, fresh momentum, and another move toward greater independence and opportunity 🎉

We want to give a shoutout to our incredible volunteers who generously give their time and hearts to serve others. We truly couldn't do this without you. We are so grateful for your dedication and for the way you help us fulfill this mission and give back to our community.

Thank you for everything you do to keep this organization running and to make a lasting difference in the lives of so many. We appreciate each and every one of you!

Our amazing key volunteers, who show up week after week:
Anne Edwards
Maryan Newbury
MaryAnn Fox Daugherty MaryAnn Fox Daugherty
Patricia Edwards
Carrie Campbell French
Suzi Baker

Our dedicated Board of Directors:
Chris Thomas
Carrie Campbell French
Ron Olmsted
Michele Zaricor
Callie Stalliard
Jay Maru

This week, we want to take a moment to recognize and thank our incredible partners. We truly couldn't do what we do without your support and the generosity of a community that cares deeply about giving back.

Because of you, we're able to serve others, strengthen our community, and provide hope to those who need it most. Thank you for making this mission possible and for standing alongside us as we continue to make a difference together.

These are our structural & resource partners who support capacity and addressing community-wide needs:
Waterfront Rescue Mission
MCHD - Mobile County Health Department
AltaPointe Health
Mobile Police Department
Be The Change Gulf Coast
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Mobile License Commission
Social Security Administration of Mobile

These are our service & referral partners who rely on First Steps to support their programs and clients:
Sheena’s Hope
The Salvation Army International
Home of Grace for Women
Showered by the Holy Spirit
McKemie Place
Ryans Refuge
Mission of Hope
Door to Serenity

Sometimes the greatest victories don't happen overnight.

About a year ago, a young man came to First Steps needing help getting his life back on track. We walked alongside him through the process of replacing his birth certificate, obtaining his Social Security card, and finally getting his state ID. It was a long journey, with many legal hurdles that would have stopped most people.

The best part of the story, is that he never gave up on us and we never gave up on him. The word defeat is not in our vocabulary.

Today, we're excited to share that he is gainfully employed.

This isn't just a story about documents. It's a story about determination, perseverance, and someone refusing to give up on a better future.

Every ID we help obtain is more than a piece of plastic or paper—it can be the key that unlocks employment, housing, healthcare, and hope.

Congratulations to him for everything he has accomplished. We couldn't be happier for him, and we can't wait to see what comes next.
One step at a time. One life at a time. That's why we do what we do. ❤️

Sometimes the best way to continue serving others is to take a moment to rest.

Our First Steps team will be taking a short break next week to spend time with our families, recharge, and prepare for the months ahead. We are so thankful for everyone who has supported this ministry, prayed for us, volunteered alongside us, and trusted us to walk with them through some of life's most difficult moments.

We'll be back at Waterfront Mission on Tuesday, July 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., ready to continue helping our neighbors take their next first step.

Thank you for your patience, your prayers, and your continued support. We hope you have a safe and blessed week, and we look forward to seeing everyone again on the 28th!

There's nothing better than celebrating a win — especially one that marks the beginning of new opportunities 🎉

Today, we had the privilege of cheering on another individual as he took an important step forward and began the process of getting his government-issued ID. Real change often starts with a single decision and a little bit of support.

We're so proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to all that's ahead.

Another step forward, another reason to celebrate 🎉

Today, we had the privilege of helping this gentleman begin the process of getting his identification back — something so small that makes a big difference. An ID opens doors to employment, housing, healthcare, and so many new opportunities.

It's incredibly encouraging to walk alongside people as they take these important first steps and to witness their lives begin to change. Seeing hope grow, confidence return, and new opportunities unfold is a reminder of why we do what we do.

✨📢 Important Update for Our First Steps Community! 📢✨

​We are updating the weekly schedule for our First Steps program, effective immediately. We’ve adjusted our hours to make our drop-in assistance more accessible.

​Our First Steps team is here to help you navigate essential steps like obtaining a photo ID or securing necessary identification documents. Please join us at our new times below:

​🗓️ UPDATED SCHEDULE:
​📍 Waterfront Mission
Every Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

​📍 Tillman's Corner (MPD Second Precinct)
Every Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

​Let's take the next step together!

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