Announcement: At Safe Harbor, our top priority is the health and safety of our clients and staff members. We are taking every precaution to minimize exposure risk, in accordance with CDC guidelines and the recommendations of local public health agencies. Our teams have implemented specific coronavirus protocol for our campuses in order to not only protect our current clients and staff, but also those looking to start their recovery journey. As of April 27, 2020 we are, once again, accepting new clients at our locations which include Memphis, Erin, Bucksnort, & Jefferson County, TN and Little Rock, AR. Any new client must have a recommendation form filled out before being considered. This can be filled out by a family member, government agency, church, etc.
Our protocol includes such measures:
Regardless of your location, recovery with a more controlled environment may be a safer place than your current living situation.
We are here to help and are committed to supporting our community during these times.
Our protocol includes such measures:
- Revised Intake Screening
- Separated living for new clients that are accepted into our program
- Thorough cleaning and sanitation of campuses and supplies on a regular basis
- Asking staff to remain home if they exhibit any symptoms of coronavirus
- Continued monitoring of all clients’ health
- Reducing the amount of close contact among clients and staff
Regardless of your location, recovery with a more controlled environment may be a safer place than your current living situation.
We are here to help and are committed to supporting our community during these times.
2021 1st Quarter Newsletter: https://conta.cc/3wryQGJ
We had a great weekend here at Bucksnort!
Bucksnort Bingo Bash 2021!! We had a great time playing BINGO, and getting to know each other with 2 truths and a lie!! Thanks Jonathan Morris for the idea!!
Celebration Sunday - March 2021
Congratulations to our graduates - Jeremiah Brewer, Cody Campbell, Daniel Smith, Daniel Wright, Larry Hunt & James Clark!
Congratulations to our graduates - Jeremiah Brewer, Cody Campbell, Daniel Smith, Daniel Wright, Larry Hunt & James Clark!
Testimony Tuesday: Kyle Serritella
Intake pic - 11/13/2020
Current pic - 03/22/2021
"I grew up in a very frustrating household. I witnessed things that the average child wouldn't. The state took me away at a very young age. I've had a rough life since an adolescent. My decisions led me to using drugs and being in and out of jail. Before I was released from jail my mother passed away. I didn't know what to do anymore or how to cope with her passing. Using has done nothing but cause a catastrophe in my life. I've lost a lot of things I worked hard for due to my addiction. I decided that I couldn't do it on my own so I decided to seek help. I heard about Safe Harbor through a mutual friend that was in the program already. There was a bed available for me so I came. Being a Safe Harbor has taught me that my life is not over with and that it's never to late to accomplish things. The biggest thing Safe Harbor has taught me is that you don't have to be high to be happy."
Intake pic - 11/13/2020
Current pic - 03/22/2021
"I grew up in a very frustrating household. I witnessed things that the average child wouldn't. The state took me away at a very young age. I've had a rough life since an adolescent. My decisions led me to using drugs and being in and out of jail. Before I was released from jail my mother passed away. I didn't know what to do anymore or how to cope with her passing. Using has done nothing but cause a catastrophe in my life. I've lost a lot of things I worked hard for due to my addiction. I decided that I couldn't do it on my own so I decided to seek help. I heard about Safe Harbor through a mutual friend that was in the program already. There was a bed available for me so I came. Being a Safe Harbor has taught me that my life is not over with and that it's never to late to accomplish things. The biggest thing Safe Harbor has taught me is that you don't have to be high to be happy."
Did a little cooking on the smoker this weekend in Bucksnort!
Learning to tie a tie today in Life Skills Class.
We had a great NA/AA Meeting Saturday!
Clients volunteering this weekend!
Chap and one of our clients, Mr. Dodson, put some touch ups on the paint and fixed the chapel up. They did a great job!
Testimony Tuesday: Payton Plunk
Intake pic - 02/03/2021
Current pic - 02/22/2021
“My life of addiction began at the age of 14. Growing up I had both parents but still I felt all alone and empty on the inside. I didn't know how to cope with all the stress and anxiety so I tried to mask it with substances. My nephew passing away didn't help a bit at all either. We were really close. I thought doing these things would take the problems away but all it did was make things spiral more out of control. I went from one substance to another. My addiction has done nothing for me but lead me to jail and rehabilitation programs. I'm thankful that my probation officer referred me to Safe Harbor. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me how to have patience. It has also taught me to communicate. While being here I've learned so much. The list could go on and on. Most importantly while being here I have learned to seek God more and to reach out to him.”
Intake pic - 02/03/2021
Current pic - 02/22/2021
“My life of addiction began at the age of 14. Growing up I had both parents but still I felt all alone and empty on the inside. I didn't know how to cope with all the stress and anxiety so I tried to mask it with substances. My nephew passing away didn't help a bit at all either. We were really close. I thought doing these things would take the problems away but all it did was make things spiral more out of control. I went from one substance to another. My addiction has done nothing for me but lead me to jail and rehabilitation programs. I'm thankful that my probation officer referred me to Safe Harbor. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me how to have patience. It has also taught me to communicate. While being here I've learned so much. The list could go on and on. Most importantly while being here I have learned to seek God more and to reach out to him.”
Celebration Sunday - February 2021
Congratulations to our graduates - Peyton Wooten, John Dodson, Brett Peel, Bert Nanney, James Stewart, Chris Carver, & Brent Graves!
Congratulations to our Reliable of the Month - Jimmy Allen!
Staff of the Month is Rick Snodgrass! Congrats!
Congratulations to our graduates - Peyton Wooten, John Dodson, Brett Peel, Bert Nanney, James Stewart, Chris Carver, & Brent Graves!
Congratulations to our Reliable of the Month - Jimmy Allen!
Staff of the Month is Rick Snodgrass! Congrats!
Pre-Celebration Saturday night!
The guys playing a little football on this snowy day!
It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness!!! The snow in Bucksnort!
Testimony Tuesday: Jeffrey Nicholson
Intake pic - 01/09/2021
Current pic - 02/15/2021
"Before I came to Safe Harbor I felt really lost. My drug use had become unmanageable. I began to lose everything including myself. What lead me to Safe Harbor is I got tired of living the way I was living. I feared for my life and that I would die in the mist of being high. Before coming to Safe Harbor I thought that my life would be over. Since I've come to Safe Harbor I can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. Since I've been here God has been blessing me tremendously. Being here has taught me to trust God and I have also learned patience. Learning to trust God has been a big accomplishment for me. I feel a lot better about life today. I now have a job and something to look forward to. I also have friends in sobriety now."
Intake pic - 01/09/2021
Current pic - 02/15/2021
"Before I came to Safe Harbor I felt really lost. My drug use had become unmanageable. I began to lose everything including myself. What lead me to Safe Harbor is I got tired of living the way I was living. I feared for my life and that I would die in the mist of being high. Before coming to Safe Harbor I thought that my life would be over. Since I've come to Safe Harbor I can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. Since I've been here God has been blessing me tremendously. Being here has taught me to trust God and I have also learned patience. Learning to trust God has been a big accomplishment for me. I feel a lot better about life today. I now have a job and something to look forward to. I also have friends in sobriety now."
Packed house for class today!
The clients played a couple games of BINGO. We had two winners tonight they both won a Pizza a piece Mr. Chris Pierce and Justin Goodwin!!
The guys got to try out the Popcorn machine last night! Looks like it was a success!
Testimony Tuesday: Justin Goodwin
Intake pic - 11/13/2020
Current pic - 02/08/2021
"Greetings, My name is Justin and I'm forty two years old. I was born and raised in Nashville, TN. I have one fourteen year old daughter. Growing up for me was a bit rough. I hung in the wrong crowds quite often which lead me to making bad decisions. I didn't have much of a positive role model growing up. My journey of addiction began when I was sixteen years old. Every since then my life has went down hill. My life had spiraled out of control in which I could no longer do or make decisions on my own. I decided it was time to get help. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to be true to myself, patience and the importance of God. Safe Harbor has been good to me. I feel that the staff is awesome here and I have found a brotherhood here also."
Intake pic - 11/13/2020
Current pic - 02/08/2021
"Greetings, My name is Justin and I'm forty two years old. I was born and raised in Nashville, TN. I have one fourteen year old daughter. Growing up for me was a bit rough. I hung in the wrong crowds quite often which lead me to making bad decisions. I didn't have much of a positive role model growing up. My journey of addiction began when I was sixteen years old. Every since then my life has went down hill. My life had spiraled out of control in which I could no longer do or make decisions on my own. I decided it was time to get help. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to be true to myself, patience and the importance of God. Safe Harbor has been good to me. I feel that the staff is awesome here and I have found a brotherhood here also."
Super Bowl 2021 followed by class tonight. Our chaplain always has a good message and a strong prayer!
Testimony Tuesday: Justin Arnold
Intake pic - 01/11/2021
Current pic - 01/25/2021
"Growing up in Centerville, TN was rough. I was raised by a single parent. Having no male role model in my life led me to make decisions on my own. At the age of eleven I began to use marijuana. I knew no better at the time. Things only got worse from there. I began to hang around the wrong people and use harder drugs. My life had become unmanageable so I decided to get help. When I lost custody of my child I knew it was time. I promised my mother before she passed that I would get help in sobriety and right decision making. I decided to come to Safe Harbor to get the help I needed and to change my life for the better. While being at Safe Harbor I have found God again. I've learned to pray and also ask for forgiveness. "
Intake pic - 01/11/2021
Current pic - 01/25/2021
"Growing up in Centerville, TN was rough. I was raised by a single parent. Having no male role model in my life led me to make decisions on my own. At the age of eleven I began to use marijuana. I knew no better at the time. Things only got worse from there. I began to hang around the wrong people and use harder drugs. My life had become unmanageable so I decided to get help. When I lost custody of my child I knew it was time. I promised my mother before she passed that I would get help in sobriety and right decision making. I decided to come to Safe Harbor to get the help I needed and to change my life for the better. While being at Safe Harbor I have found God again. I've learned to pray and also ask for forgiveness. "
Celebration Sunday - January 2021
Congrats to our graduates - Billy Jackson, Jeffrey Tigue, Derrick Crutcher, Herby Pascal, William O'Kelley, Eddie Perry, Anthony Camper & Michael Bryant.
Congrats to our graduates - Billy Jackson, Jeffrey Tigue, Derrick Crutcher, Herby Pascal, William O'Kelley, Eddie Perry, Anthony Camper & Michael Bryant.
Testimony Tuesday: Daniel Kemp
Intake pic - 10/14/2020
Current pic - 01/18/2020
"Growing up I was adopted at the age of eleven in New York. My dad was in the military so we traveled frequently. At the age of fifteen I was in a car accident and broke several bones. I was on a bunch of pain killers. I never knew I would be addicted to prescribed medication. My medication was taken away and I began to use other things. I had no way to support my habits which led me to being incarcerated. I was sentenced to six years in prison. I had already completed the Safe Harbor program in Clarksville. I was familiar with the program. I came from prison to the Safe Harbor of Bucksnort location. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me coping mechanisms for my anger , what my triggers are for getting high and money management."
Intake pic - 10/14/2020
Current pic - 01/18/2020
"Growing up I was adopted at the age of eleven in New York. My dad was in the military so we traveled frequently. At the age of fifteen I was in a car accident and broke several bones. I was on a bunch of pain killers. I never knew I would be addicted to prescribed medication. My medication was taken away and I began to use other things. I had no way to support my habits which led me to being incarcerated. I was sentenced to six years in prison. I had already completed the Safe Harbor program in Clarksville. I was familiar with the program. I came from prison to the Safe Harbor of Bucksnort location. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me coping mechanisms for my anger , what my triggers are for getting high and money management."
Clients headed into work!
The guys loving having some great weather to get some hoops in!
Testimony Tuesday: Juwaine Smith
Intake pic - 12/30/2020
Current pic 01/11/2021
“Growing up in Cookeville, Tennessee was very hard for me. My mother and father were both in active addiction. My grandparents had to raise me. Although this went on I still managed to perform well in school. While being young I enjoyed playing sports. I was a great football player. Back then I wasn't able to decide for myself. I was a people pleaser which led me to making bad decisions. Because of my poor choices I had to move with my dad. My addiction began here. I started using methamphetamines. I never realized I had a problem because I could always manage. One day I realized that I actually did need help. I called New Leaf Recovery Center to see if they had a bed available. I completed a 28 day program. I knew that 28 days wasn't a long enough program for me. I heard of Safe Harbor through my counselor at New Leaf. I was able to come here where I am able to continue my journey of success and sobriety. I never gave God a chance to shine his light through me. Today I am able to say that I now go to church and seek god thoroughly. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Intake pic - 12/30/2020
Current pic 01/11/2021
“Growing up in Cookeville, Tennessee was very hard for me. My mother and father were both in active addiction. My grandparents had to raise me. Although this went on I still managed to perform well in school. While being young I enjoyed playing sports. I was a great football player. Back then I wasn't able to decide for myself. I was a people pleaser which led me to making bad decisions. Because of my poor choices I had to move with my dad. My addiction began here. I started using methamphetamines. I never realized I had a problem because I could always manage. One day I realized that I actually did need help. I called New Leaf Recovery Center to see if they had a bed available. I completed a 28 day program. I knew that 28 days wasn't a long enough program for me. I heard of Safe Harbor through my counselor at New Leaf. I was able to come here where I am able to continue my journey of success and sobriety. I never gave God a chance to shine his light through me. Today I am able to say that I now go to church and seek god thoroughly. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Who the Son sets free, is free indeed. Powerful baptisms Sunday morning.
This is why we do what we do. Mr. Etheridge was in absolute tears as he shed away is old life!
What a beautiful site seeing these baptisms!
This is why we do what we do. Mr. Etheridge was in absolute tears as he shed away is old life!
What a beautiful site seeing these baptisms!
Testimony Tuesday: Joseph Johnson
Intake pic - 11/18/2020
Current pic - 01/04/2021
"Hello, My name is Joseph Johnson. I'm 37 years old. I was born and raised in Madison, Tennessee. I just want to talk briefly about how God has changed my life. Five months ago I never cared if I lived or died. I had been battling a heroin addiction for six years. I had been searching for God my whole life but I had been looking for him on my terms and only wanted him to be convenient to me when necessary.
I went to jail and lost everything I own. When I went to jail I was very scared of going through withdrawals. It was the first time I had prayed in seven or eight years. Praying to the Lord about my frustrations lead me to have no withdrawals at all. I had been in jail for about a month. Everyone I knew from the outside had given up on me. They would no longer accept my phone calls. I prayed to God and was sincere about turning my life over to him. I wanted him to lead me in the right direction.
Slowly things had started to change for me. I didn't have any money for commissary. The next day I checked to see if I had anything and there it was $80.00. After not having any withdrawals and the money being put on my books I knew it had to be none other than God. A couple weeks later I got in contact with a friend and told him I was really ready to change my life and thoroughly seek God. We talked briefly, later he bonded me out. When I got out I called Buffalo Valley. I had a date to be admitted. Twenty four hours before I was suppose to be there I was told that my grant was given away. I knew I couldn't just give up because I really wanted to change my life. I prayed and called my aunt. She gave me the number to Safe Harbor.
I called and was told that there was a bed available but I had to find a ride. I could not find anyone to take me. I was told that there was a bus that traveled to the Walmart in Dickson, Tn. When I got to the bus station I didn't have enough money to catch the bus. I was later then picked up and brought to Safe Harbor. I came to Safe Harbor with nothing. Usually when I come to a new environment I get anxiety but when I came to Safe Harbor I felt at ease. I knew that God was leading me and all I had to do was follow.
The following Sunday I went to church. I was supposed to be baptized but I didn't bring the extra clothes to change. Luckily someone else that was getting baptized had a pair. This is how great God works. When I went up to get baptized the preacher said a prayer over me. I had the most powerful unexplainable feeling that went from my head to my toes. I already knew God was with me but at that moment I was a hundred percent positive. It was a feeling that not even drugs could give me.
Even though I came to Safe Harbor lost and broken I still remain positive. Safe Harbor has given me the tools that I need to change my life and be able stay clean."
Intake pic - 11/18/2020
Current pic - 01/04/2021
"Hello, My name is Joseph Johnson. I'm 37 years old. I was born and raised in Madison, Tennessee. I just want to talk briefly about how God has changed my life. Five months ago I never cared if I lived or died. I had been battling a heroin addiction for six years. I had been searching for God my whole life but I had been looking for him on my terms and only wanted him to be convenient to me when necessary.
I went to jail and lost everything I own. When I went to jail I was very scared of going through withdrawals. It was the first time I had prayed in seven or eight years. Praying to the Lord about my frustrations lead me to have no withdrawals at all. I had been in jail for about a month. Everyone I knew from the outside had given up on me. They would no longer accept my phone calls. I prayed to God and was sincere about turning my life over to him. I wanted him to lead me in the right direction.
Slowly things had started to change for me. I didn't have any money for commissary. The next day I checked to see if I had anything and there it was $80.00. After not having any withdrawals and the money being put on my books I knew it had to be none other than God. A couple weeks later I got in contact with a friend and told him I was really ready to change my life and thoroughly seek God. We talked briefly, later he bonded me out. When I got out I called Buffalo Valley. I had a date to be admitted. Twenty four hours before I was suppose to be there I was told that my grant was given away. I knew I couldn't just give up because I really wanted to change my life. I prayed and called my aunt. She gave me the number to Safe Harbor.
I called and was told that there was a bed available but I had to find a ride. I could not find anyone to take me. I was told that there was a bus that traveled to the Walmart in Dickson, Tn. When I got to the bus station I didn't have enough money to catch the bus. I was later then picked up and brought to Safe Harbor. I came to Safe Harbor with nothing. Usually when I come to a new environment I get anxiety but when I came to Safe Harbor I felt at ease. I knew that God was leading me and all I had to do was follow.
The following Sunday I went to church. I was supposed to be baptized but I didn't bring the extra clothes to change. Luckily someone else that was getting baptized had a pair. This is how great God works. When I went up to get baptized the preacher said a prayer over me. I had the most powerful unexplainable feeling that went from my head to my toes. I already knew God was with me but at that moment I was a hundred percent positive. It was a feeling that not even drugs could give me.
Even though I came to Safe Harbor lost and broken I still remain positive. Safe Harbor has given me the tools that I need to change my life and be able stay clean."
New Year Celebration!
The guys here at Bucksnort watched a movie, played cards, and played some Bingo to bring in the New Year!
The guys here at Bucksnort watched a movie, played cards, and played some Bingo to bring in the New Year!
Out with the old, in with the news from the 4th Quarter from Safe Harbor of Bucksnort!
https://conta.cc/2KN1qzm
https://conta.cc/2KN1qzm
Testimony Tuesday: Nicholas Gilson
Intake pic - 12/14/2020
Current pic - 12/28/2020
"Greetings, My name is Nicholas Gilson. I was born in Florida but I grew up in New Orleans. Growing up I was fatherless. My mother was a single parent in active addiction. At the age of five I was removed from her care into a foster home. I spent nine months there. My mother became clean and got custody of me again at the age of seven. From seven to eleven years old I began to have troubles. I started making bad decisions. I was constantly getting into trouble. I started smoking cigarettes at that age. I was later then placed on probation. My mother had gotten back into active addiction. I had no discipline back then. I was in and out of juvenile. I did four months in juvenile. I was sent to a treatment facility called Hope Haven center where I remained there for a year and a half.
My mother never met the requirements for me to get released back into her care so they recommended that I go to a group home. I continued to run away. It was a never ending cycle. At the age of fourteen I was put back in custody because I had no where else to go. I was later adopted by a family I knew. They were a very Christian like family in which I was well disciplined. My grades had gotten better. I had met a friend that I truly fell in love with. Things didn't work out and I felt heart broken. I started to act out in emotion and began to convert back to my old ways. I was again sent off and had to go live with my mother as a senior in high school. Everything was okay.
At that age I was introduced to marijuana. My mother again got back into addiction and started to sell everything in the house in which I was forced to quit school. My step father sent me to live with my grandparents in Florida to finish school. I enrolled in adult ED and met some friends. I started to use other drugs not knowing I would be in active addiction. Cocaine lead to ecstasy and ecstasy to crack cocaine. At the age of 22 I was fully addicted to crack cocaine. For the next ten years I became a alcoholic and would continue to use whatever I could get my hands on. I would always have a job but my addiction kept me to constantly to lose employment.
I started to use methamphetamines. I used it in every way I could. I traveled the world as a lineman. It was a great job. But because of my addiction I lost the job. At this point I realized I needed help. I was then referred to the Hope Center. I enrolled a week later. I came there broken , depressed and confused. I wanted to die. I felt the world would be a better place without me. My shame became over bearing. For the first time in a very long time I felt love. The feeling was different. It was the love of Jesus Christ! They helped me to understand Jesus and what love is. Transformation had began.
I started to believe the things God said. I no longer felt like the things I did in life would hold me back. I stayed at the Hope Center for three months. I did so good there that I was sent to North Carolina to help open another facility. I traveled back to Virginia for a month waiting on a bed to come back to Tennessee. I stayed in Camden, Tennessee for a month. I then decided to transfer to Safe Harbor of Bucksnort.
My journey is far from over but there is no doubt that I am a changed individual. The love I have for others and the desire I have to do for other people instead of myself is overwhelming. I have identified myself through Christ. My mother now smiles at me and my girlfriend is happy with me. My mother is now sober and the change she sees in me helps her want to remain clean. People ask me all the time how do you change the things and people around you? The answer is the light of God must shine through you and if shines bright enough the ones around you will be affected. My journey is certainly not over but praise God my new journey through Christ has finally started."
Intake pic - 12/14/2020
Current pic - 12/28/2020
"Greetings, My name is Nicholas Gilson. I was born in Florida but I grew up in New Orleans. Growing up I was fatherless. My mother was a single parent in active addiction. At the age of five I was removed from her care into a foster home. I spent nine months there. My mother became clean and got custody of me again at the age of seven. From seven to eleven years old I began to have troubles. I started making bad decisions. I was constantly getting into trouble. I started smoking cigarettes at that age. I was later then placed on probation. My mother had gotten back into active addiction. I had no discipline back then. I was in and out of juvenile. I did four months in juvenile. I was sent to a treatment facility called Hope Haven center where I remained there for a year and a half.
My mother never met the requirements for me to get released back into her care so they recommended that I go to a group home. I continued to run away. It was a never ending cycle. At the age of fourteen I was put back in custody because I had no where else to go. I was later adopted by a family I knew. They were a very Christian like family in which I was well disciplined. My grades had gotten better. I had met a friend that I truly fell in love with. Things didn't work out and I felt heart broken. I started to act out in emotion and began to convert back to my old ways. I was again sent off and had to go live with my mother as a senior in high school. Everything was okay.
At that age I was introduced to marijuana. My mother again got back into addiction and started to sell everything in the house in which I was forced to quit school. My step father sent me to live with my grandparents in Florida to finish school. I enrolled in adult ED and met some friends. I started to use other drugs not knowing I would be in active addiction. Cocaine lead to ecstasy and ecstasy to crack cocaine. At the age of 22 I was fully addicted to crack cocaine. For the next ten years I became a alcoholic and would continue to use whatever I could get my hands on. I would always have a job but my addiction kept me to constantly to lose employment.
I started to use methamphetamines. I used it in every way I could. I traveled the world as a lineman. It was a great job. But because of my addiction I lost the job. At this point I realized I needed help. I was then referred to the Hope Center. I enrolled a week later. I came there broken , depressed and confused. I wanted to die. I felt the world would be a better place without me. My shame became over bearing. For the first time in a very long time I felt love. The feeling was different. It was the love of Jesus Christ! They helped me to understand Jesus and what love is. Transformation had began.
I started to believe the things God said. I no longer felt like the things I did in life would hold me back. I stayed at the Hope Center for three months. I did so good there that I was sent to North Carolina to help open another facility. I traveled back to Virginia for a month waiting on a bed to come back to Tennessee. I stayed in Camden, Tennessee for a month. I then decided to transfer to Safe Harbor of Bucksnort.
My journey is far from over but there is no doubt that I am a changed individual. The love I have for others and the desire I have to do for other people instead of myself is overwhelming. I have identified myself through Christ. My mother now smiles at me and my girlfriend is happy with me. My mother is now sober and the change she sees in me helps her want to remain clean. People ask me all the time how do you change the things and people around you? The answer is the light of God must shine through you and if shines bright enough the ones around you will be affected. My journey is certainly not over but praise God my new journey through Christ has finally started."
Christmas 2020
Christmas Dinner & Party for the clients!
Christmas Dinner & Party for the clients!
Love from the community. Our friends from next door baked candy and made hot chocolate for the guys!!
Congratulations to Safe Harbor of Bucksnort for the following awards: Most Improved City, Rookie of the Year Award went to Reliable Director Troy Beasley, and The Safety Award.
The Client Christmas party was amazing. This is Zach Grace from Compassion Church sharing his experience strength and hope with the guys.
Movie Night on Christmas Eve!
Celebration Sunday - December 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Frederick Owens, Carlos Teaque, Clay Andrews, Michael Rankin, & James Alford!
Congratulations to our graduates; Frederick Owens, Carlos Teaque, Clay Andrews, Michael Rankin, & James Alford!
Testimony Tuesday: Trever Reese
Intake pic - 10/02/2020
Current pic - 12/21/2020
"Greeting, My name is Trever Reese. I was born and raised in Montgomery County, Clarksville, TN. I grew up in church and had a great upbringing. Neither of my parents indulged in addiction. I made good grades in school until I entered high school. In high I always tried to make people smile and laugh which lead me to surround myself with the wrong crowd of people. At the age of sixteen I experimented with cocaine. This is where my life of addiction began. From this point on everything went down hill for me. My addiction only got stronger and unmanageable. It landed me at Safe Harbor. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me that I don't need to use drugs to live a happy life. Being here has given me a lot to smile for and a brighter future to look forward to."
Intake pic - 10/02/2020
Current pic - 12/21/2020
"Greeting, My name is Trever Reese. I was born and raised in Montgomery County, Clarksville, TN. I grew up in church and had a great upbringing. Neither of my parents indulged in addiction. I made good grades in school until I entered high school. In high I always tried to make people smile and laugh which lead me to surround myself with the wrong crowd of people. At the age of sixteen I experimented with cocaine. This is where my life of addiction began. From this point on everything went down hill for me. My addiction only got stronger and unmanageable. It landed me at Safe Harbor. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me that I don't need to use drugs to live a happy life. Being here has given me a lot to smile for and a brighter future to look forward to."
Testimony Tuesday: Bert Nanney
Intake pic - 08/10/2020
Current pic - 10/14/2020
"Hello, My name is Lucian Nanney. I'm from Manchester, Tennessee. Growing up I was raised into a strong Christian background. I grew up farming cotton. Addiction has never been apart of my family so therefore I never struggled in my younger years. My family lived a drug free life. On or about last year I was laid off from General Motors because of a strike. I started getting unemployment in October of 2019. Additionally in the spring when Covid hit I got a substantial amount of 900.00 dollars per week. This is where my life of alcohol addiction began. I started to sit around the house and drink frequently. I started with a fifth of Jack Daniel's and beer every other day. Drinking lead me to depression. It had gotten so bad that I had to stay in the hospital for a week. The hospital I was at recommended me to Safe Harbor. When I first got to Safe Harbor things were difficult for me. I was still going through detox. My family thought it would be best for me to stay 30 to 60 days because we had to hire someone to come and take care of the farm. I didn't think that time frame would be long enough for me. I needed to get alcohol off my brain and consciousness completely. Others motivated me that I needed to get my life in order and live a healthy sober life. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me a lot of patience. It has also shown me affection and comfort that only another addict knows. It's not something you can get out of a book. I am very grateful for Safe Harbor giving me a chance to be around people just like me and have the desire to change. Real change is hard but it's all something we can do."
Intake pic - 08/10/2020
Current pic - 10/14/2020
"Hello, My name is Lucian Nanney. I'm from Manchester, Tennessee. Growing up I was raised into a strong Christian background. I grew up farming cotton. Addiction has never been apart of my family so therefore I never struggled in my younger years. My family lived a drug free life. On or about last year I was laid off from General Motors because of a strike. I started getting unemployment in October of 2019. Additionally in the spring when Covid hit I got a substantial amount of 900.00 dollars per week. This is where my life of alcohol addiction began. I started to sit around the house and drink frequently. I started with a fifth of Jack Daniel's and beer every other day. Drinking lead me to depression. It had gotten so bad that I had to stay in the hospital for a week. The hospital I was at recommended me to Safe Harbor. When I first got to Safe Harbor things were difficult for me. I was still going through detox. My family thought it would be best for me to stay 30 to 60 days because we had to hire someone to come and take care of the farm. I didn't think that time frame would be long enough for me. I needed to get alcohol off my brain and consciousness completely. Others motivated me that I needed to get my life in order and live a healthy sober life. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me a lot of patience. It has also shown me affection and comfort that only another addict knows. It's not something you can get out of a book. I am very grateful for Safe Harbor giving me a chance to be around people just like me and have the desire to change. Real change is hard but it's all something we can do."
Testimony Tuesday: Charles Walker
Intake pic - 11/19/2020
Current pic - 12/07/2020
"Greetings, My name is Charles Walker. I was born and raised in Columbia, Tennessee. I am a father of four. I also have five grandchildren and another on that will be born in April. Most of my childhood I grew up on a farm raising animals. A house fire occurred which caused me to move into town. Transitioning into town things were a lot different. Everything was more fast paced. That's where I met a lot of new friends. We would all play sports together and hang out. We occasionally went to the skating rink on the weekends. This is where my life of addiction began. I started experiencing with marijuana at the age of thirteen. At that age I thought it was okay to do. Little did I know that things would get worse. Using marijuana would only cause me to experience with other drugs and alcohol leading to a road of destruction. Addiction has caused me nothing but trouble. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to put God first and humble myself. Many times I didn't deserve a second chance but by the grace of God I've been given many. I don't have things under control yet but I'm taking inventory as the days go by. If I continue to seek and put God first everything will fall in place."
Intake pic - 11/19/2020
Current pic - 12/07/2020
"Greetings, My name is Charles Walker. I was born and raised in Columbia, Tennessee. I am a father of four. I also have five grandchildren and another on that will be born in April. Most of my childhood I grew up on a farm raising animals. A house fire occurred which caused me to move into town. Transitioning into town things were a lot different. Everything was more fast paced. That's where I met a lot of new friends. We would all play sports together and hang out. We occasionally went to the skating rink on the weekends. This is where my life of addiction began. I started experiencing with marijuana at the age of thirteen. At that age I thought it was okay to do. Little did I know that things would get worse. Using marijuana would only cause me to experience with other drugs and alcohol leading to a road of destruction. Addiction has caused me nothing but trouble. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to put God first and humble myself. Many times I didn't deserve a second chance but by the grace of God I've been given many. I don't have things under control yet but I'm taking inventory as the days go by. If I continue to seek and put God first everything will fall in place."
Waiting on Sunday morning Church service to start
The staff celebrating Mr Peyton Wooten's 21st birthday!
We would like to welcome Gibson Brands to our wonderful group of partners! We are so blessed to have them on board with us!
Breakfast time! The guys getting full bellies and ready for the work day.
Getting in the Holiday spirit!
Testimony Tuesday: Zachary English
Intake pic - 11/09/2020
Current pic - 11/30/2020
“Greetings, This is a little about myself and my journey through recovery. My name is Zachary English. I'm from McKenzie, Tennessee. I am 29 years old. Before coming to Safe Harbor my life was like the movie Ground Hog Day. Everyday of my life continued to get worse because of my use. During that period of time I felt like feeling this way and having nothing was okay at the moment. One day I started to realize that my closest friends did not want me around. That made me want to change my life around. Every where I went I would sit down and use. I had no regard of nobodies feelings but my own. Using made me a very selfish and angry person inside. I learned that misery loves company. I was not much motivation to myself or others. Now that I am clean I try to bring joy and happiness to everybody around. I spread the message of God to others of how and what he has done in my life and can do to them also. The happiness I have in my life now brings me joy. I now enjoy helping others who have daily struggles the same as me. Me giving back allows me not to be selfish. I would like thank Safe Harbor for allowing me to find God again and to never look back again unless I forget where I'm going.”
Intake pic - 11/09/2020
Current pic - 11/30/2020
“Greetings, This is a little about myself and my journey through recovery. My name is Zachary English. I'm from McKenzie, Tennessee. I am 29 years old. Before coming to Safe Harbor my life was like the movie Ground Hog Day. Everyday of my life continued to get worse because of my use. During that period of time I felt like feeling this way and having nothing was okay at the moment. One day I started to realize that my closest friends did not want me around. That made me want to change my life around. Every where I went I would sit down and use. I had no regard of nobodies feelings but my own. Using made me a very selfish and angry person inside. I learned that misery loves company. I was not much motivation to myself or others. Now that I am clean I try to bring joy and happiness to everybody around. I spread the message of God to others of how and what he has done in my life and can do to them also. The happiness I have in my life now brings me joy. I now enjoy helping others who have daily struggles the same as me. Me giving back allows me not to be selfish. I would like thank Safe Harbor for allowing me to find God again and to never look back again unless I forget where I'm going.”
We want to give a big shout out to Mike and Lisa Ferguson for helping a client get a car!
Thanksgiving 2020
Breakfast on Thanksgiving morning!
Breakfast on Thanksgiving morning!
A little basketball to get their appetites ready before Thanksgiving Dinner at 3!
Clients and staff working together to get everyone fed.
Full bellies & grateful hearts here in Bucksnort!
Full bellies & grateful hearts here in Bucksnort!
Testimony Tuesday: James Alford
Intake pic - 06/23/2020
Current pic - 11/23/2020
"Hello, My name is James Alford. I was born and raised in Daytona, Florida. Growing up I enjoyed doing things like surfing and bike riding. Being born in Florida was fun and adventurous. There was always something to do. I played football for my high school. After graduating high school I lost interest in football. I attended a college by the name of Daytona Beach Community College to major in education. I met one of my children's mother there in which caused me to relocate to Jackson, TN. I was introduced to methamphetamines at a party. It all went down hill from there. Being addicted to methamphetamines has costed me sanity, freedom, family and a lot of lost time. I heard of Safe Harbor while I was incarcerated. I would to thank Safe Harbor for accepting me first and foremost. They have taught me patience and has built me a reestablished connection with my family. I now have a foundation that I can stand on. I would also like to thank god for not taking his hands off me. Without god I am nothing."
Intake pic - 06/23/2020
Current pic - 11/23/2020
"Hello, My name is James Alford. I was born and raised in Daytona, Florida. Growing up I enjoyed doing things like surfing and bike riding. Being born in Florida was fun and adventurous. There was always something to do. I played football for my high school. After graduating high school I lost interest in football. I attended a college by the name of Daytona Beach Community College to major in education. I met one of my children's mother there in which caused me to relocate to Jackson, TN. I was introduced to methamphetamines at a party. It all went down hill from there. Being addicted to methamphetamines has costed me sanity, freedom, family and a lot of lost time. I heard of Safe Harbor while I was incarcerated. I would to thank Safe Harbor for accepting me first and foremost. They have taught me patience and has built me a reestablished connection with my family. I now have a foundation that I can stand on. I would also like to thank god for not taking his hands off me. Without god I am nothing."
November 20 - 22, 2020
An upcoming graduate hard at work at AWG! This young man has worked tirelessly, and has been hired on full time!! He is the change!
Class time, then some college football!
Baptisms at church on Sunday morning!
John Coleman had a powerful workshop for the guys Sunday!!
An upcoming graduate hard at work at AWG! This young man has worked tirelessly, and has been hired on full time!! He is the change!
Class time, then some college football!
Baptisms at church on Sunday morning!
John Coleman had a powerful workshop for the guys Sunday!!
CPR Training on a Thursday morning!
Thanksgiving is just around the corner! While 2020 has thrown us a lot of curveballs we are excited to celebrate how thankful we are for the blessings we have been given!
Each Safe Harbor location is in need of 12 turkeys. These costs approximately $12 each. Would you like to help to ensure the men of Safe Harbor get to enjoy a great meal?
You can donate via PayPal by going to this link - PayPal.me/TheLighthouse. In the notes section please put “Turkey”.
We are so thankful for all of your support and wish you a Thanksgiving full of laughter and love!
Each Safe Harbor location is in need of 12 turkeys. These costs approximately $12 each. Would you like to help to ensure the men of Safe Harbor get to enjoy a great meal?
You can donate via PayPal by going to this link - PayPal.me/TheLighthouse. In the notes section please put “Turkey”.
We are so thankful for all of your support and wish you a Thanksgiving full of laughter and love!
Wednesday Nov 18, 2020
A couple guys after a good days work at Tennessee Building Components!
Our great Kitchen Team!
Dinner Time!
Orientation went great today!
Thank you Lee for cleaning up the storage room!
Wednesday night class!
A couple guys after a good days work at Tennessee Building Components!
Our great Kitchen Team!
Dinner Time!
Orientation went great today!
Thank you Lee for cleaning up the storage room!
Wednesday night class!
We had a great guest speaker Monday, Mr Brannon Powell!
Celebration Sunday - November 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; William Oshrin, Jesse Taylor, Michael Dotson, John Crass, Billy Milam, & Terrill Smith!
Congratulations to our graduates; William Oshrin, Jesse Taylor, Michael Dotson, John Crass, Billy Milam, & Terrill Smith!
A representative from Ebbtide and their newest maintenance man!
HR Manager Kelli Williams from Conagra here to see the guys graduate!!
More pics from graduation...
Doing their best to BE THE CHANGE!! Helped people help people!
We were blessed with this donation!
The guys at church Sunday morning 11/15/2020
Saturday 11/14/2020
Our kitchen crew getting ready for breakfast this morning!
Our kitchen crew getting ready for breakfast this morning!
The 9 am Celebrate Recovery class
The guys playing some ball before lunch Saturday
Another great Saturday night bonfire! It’s a great time to relax and gear up for Celebration Sunday.
Friday Nov 13, 2020
The men enjoying lunch!
US Foods dropping off this week's order
Bucksnort's kitchen manager preparing the fish for tonight. Thank you Eddie .
John Ludwig and our upcoming graduate John Crass.
Want to give a huge shoutout to Erin for the donations!
The men enjoying lunch!
US Foods dropping off this week's order
Bucksnort's kitchen manager preparing the fish for tonight. Thank you Eddie .
John Ludwig and our upcoming graduate John Crass.
Want to give a huge shoutout to Erin for the donations!
Thursday Nov 12, 2020
Thursday Class in session!
We are blessed with these guys. Thanks for all your hard work!
Fire pit is ready for Bucksnort's monthly celebration.
One of the clients helping out in the Kitchen. FRIED CHICKEN!!
TN Building Components guys after a long day at work!
Thursday night football!
We are blessed with these guys. Thanks for all your hard work!
Fire pit is ready for Bucksnort's monthly celebration.
One of the clients helping out in the Kitchen. FRIED CHICKEN!!
TN Building Components guys after a long day at work!
Thursday night football!
Wednesday Nov 11, 2020
Program Coordinator Mike McKissack leading Anger Management class Tuesday. Clients are really opening up.
Our Director holding class today & the Reliable office at work!
Intakes happening and the phones are ringing.
The guys getting ready to go to work earlier.
Chaplain James playing cards with the clients
Some of the clients working out on this beautiful day! Getting their mind, bodies and souls right!!
Program Coordinator Mike McKissack leading Anger Management class Tuesday. Clients are really opening up.
Our Director holding class today & the Reliable office at work!
Intakes happening and the phones are ringing.
The guys getting ready to go to work earlier.
Chaplain James playing cards with the clients
Some of the clients working out on this beautiful day! Getting their mind, bodies and souls right!!
To our Veterans,
Your selflessness and bravery
have protected this country.
For that, we thank you.
Happy Veterans Day!
Your selflessness and bravery
have protected this country.
For that, we thank you.
Happy Veterans Day!
Painting crew giving Bucksnort a bit of a facelift
Testimony Tuesday: Jeremiah Brewer
Intake pic - 09/30/2020
Current pic - 11/09/2020
“Greetings, My name is Jeremiah Brewer. I am 21 years old. Born and raised in Davidson County. Nashville, TN. I have several brothers and sisters. I'm more of a middle child out of all of us. I enjoy playing sports a lot. I'm very good at football and baseball. I played sports all through grade school. At the around the age of 14 I moved to Polk County , Florida. I wanted to surround myself in a better environment. Being there really didn't help because all I did was carry my troubles with me. At the age of sixteen my family decided to move back to Tennessee. My family seperated and that caused me to venture out and experience things on my own. I started taking opiods. It caused my life to spiral out of control. I was making bad decisions. Decisions that would cause me to be where I am today. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to have a structured lifestyle. I am thankful for being given a second opportunity to get my life together. I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11”
Intake pic - 09/30/2020
Current pic - 11/09/2020
“Greetings, My name is Jeremiah Brewer. I am 21 years old. Born and raised in Davidson County. Nashville, TN. I have several brothers and sisters. I'm more of a middle child out of all of us. I enjoy playing sports a lot. I'm very good at football and baseball. I played sports all through grade school. At the around the age of 14 I moved to Polk County , Florida. I wanted to surround myself in a better environment. Being there really didn't help because all I did was carry my troubles with me. At the age of sixteen my family decided to move back to Tennessee. My family seperated and that caused me to venture out and experience things on my own. I started taking opiods. It caused my life to spiral out of control. I was making bad decisions. Decisions that would cause me to be where I am today. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to have a structured lifestyle. I am thankful for being given a second opportunity to get my life together. I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11”
We had a great weekend here at Bucksnort! The sun was shining and the guys where cooking out and playing some ball.
Testimony Tuesday: Billy Jackson
Intake pic - 05/29/2020
Current pic - 11/2/2020
"Greetings, My name is Billy Jackson. I was born in 1995 in Clarksville, TN. I have a younger brother and sister. Growing up I was well disciplined. My role model was my dad. I enjoy wake boarding, surfing, and riding dirt bikes. I was also pretty good at cross country, football, and trap. In school I kept my grades in high standard. I was on my way to running my dad's company called Jackson Roofing and Remodeling. At the beginning of my junior year my grades began to slip. I started partying a lot. I met a female and we began to use together. I'm not blaming anyone for my addiction but it played a major part. In addiction I have lost several things which include trust, self respect, and my wife. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to accept the things I can not change and a lot of patience. Once I leave Safe Harbor I plan on going to college for for business and sales. I would like to thank Safe Harbor for teaching me patience and financial stability."
Intake pic - 05/29/2020
Current pic - 11/2/2020
"Greetings, My name is Billy Jackson. I was born in 1995 in Clarksville, TN. I have a younger brother and sister. Growing up I was well disciplined. My role model was my dad. I enjoy wake boarding, surfing, and riding dirt bikes. I was also pretty good at cross country, football, and trap. In school I kept my grades in high standard. I was on my way to running my dad's company called Jackson Roofing and Remodeling. At the beginning of my junior year my grades began to slip. I started partying a lot. I met a female and we began to use together. I'm not blaming anyone for my addiction but it played a major part. In addiction I have lost several things which include trust, self respect, and my wife. Being at Safe Harbor has taught me to accept the things I can not change and a lot of patience. Once I leave Safe Harbor I plan on going to college for for business and sales. I would like to thank Safe Harbor for teaching me patience and financial stability."
The guys waiting on church to start Sunday morning! #bethechange
Chris Somerville making homemade hush puppies!!
Testimony Tuesday: Michael Bryant
Intake pic - 07/23/2020
Current pic - 10/26/2020
"My name is Michael Bryant. I was born and raised in Frankford, Kentucky. I'm a father of 7 children. Seven boy's and one girl. I enjoy doing mechanic work, reading the bible and also fishing. Growing up as a child I was well disciplined but on down the path I began to separate from wisdom. My life of addiction began when I was eleven with my father. I always wanted to be like him so whatever he did I indulged in also. I did not know that this would lead me to self destruction. Addiction once costed me my life. I've suffered from over dosing all the way to losing trust with myself and others. I always knew that I couldn't cope using drugs but I found an excuse to use anyway. When I figured my life had become unmanageable I decided to join Safe Harbor to learn everything I once neglected as a child. Being at Safe Harbor I've learned to live with life on life terms and to accept the things I can not change. I would like to thank Safe Harbor for giving me a second chance and teaching me the mechanisms to live a sober life."
Intake pic - 07/23/2020
Current pic - 10/26/2020
"My name is Michael Bryant. I was born and raised in Frankford, Kentucky. I'm a father of 7 children. Seven boy's and one girl. I enjoy doing mechanic work, reading the bible and also fishing. Growing up as a child I was well disciplined but on down the path I began to separate from wisdom. My life of addiction began when I was eleven with my father. I always wanted to be like him so whatever he did I indulged in also. I did not know that this would lead me to self destruction. Addiction once costed me my life. I've suffered from over dosing all the way to losing trust with myself and others. I always knew that I couldn't cope using drugs but I found an excuse to use anyway. When I figured my life had become unmanageable I decided to join Safe Harbor to learn everything I once neglected as a child. Being at Safe Harbor I've learned to live with life on life terms and to accept the things I can not change. I would like to thank Safe Harbor for giving me a second chance and teaching me the mechanisms to live a sober life."
Testimony Tuesday: Billy Milan
Intake pic - 05/28/2020
Current pic - 10/19/2020
“Hello, My name is Billy Milam. I was born and raised in Halls, Tennessee. I'm a father of two sons and one daughter. Growing up I enjoyed building and working on cars. Anything thing that's broke I can fix pretty much. I also enjoy fishing. It gives me a piece of mind and also relieves a lot of stress and tension. But on down the road I began to use other substances to cope. My life of addiction began when I was fourteen years old in 1974. I wouldn't say that alcohol has been a constant addiction for me. I used it off and on. I always knew that it wasn't the right thing to do. I used it as a crutch. It did nothing for me but create more problems which lead me to Safe Harbor. While being at Safe Harbor I've learned that life is a lot better sober. I have also learned other techniques to use when dealing with situations I can't control. I must stay busy and not give my mind enough time to think or feed into negativity. I want to thank Safe Harbor and staff for being concerned about me and tending to my needs. I feel that this is a safe environment. I appreciate Safe Harbor also for giving me the opportunity to work and not allowing me to back track. May god bless you all!”
Intake pic - 05/28/2020
Current pic - 10/19/2020
“Hello, My name is Billy Milam. I was born and raised in Halls, Tennessee. I'm a father of two sons and one daughter. Growing up I enjoyed building and working on cars. Anything thing that's broke I can fix pretty much. I also enjoy fishing. It gives me a piece of mind and also relieves a lot of stress and tension. But on down the road I began to use other substances to cope. My life of addiction began when I was fourteen years old in 1974. I wouldn't say that alcohol has been a constant addiction for me. I used it off and on. I always knew that it wasn't the right thing to do. I used it as a crutch. It did nothing for me but create more problems which lead me to Safe Harbor. While being at Safe Harbor I've learned that life is a lot better sober. I have also learned other techniques to use when dealing with situations I can't control. I must stay busy and not give my mind enough time to think or feed into negativity. I want to thank Safe Harbor and staff for being concerned about me and tending to my needs. I feel that this is a safe environment. I appreciate Safe Harbor also for giving me the opportunity to work and not allowing me to back track. May god bless you all!”
Celebration Sunday - October 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Nathaniel Chapuis & Stephen Bennett!
Congratulations to our graduates; Nathaniel Chapuis & Stephen Bennett!
Congratulations to our Staff Member of the Month, Eddie Perry!
Our celebration weekend was full of outdoor activities!
Our Reliable Coordinator and Program Coordinator played some ball with the clients.
We had a special night Saturday night that we called Celebrate Sobriety. It was a great time to have for the men to relax and enjoy the outdoors!
Our Reliable Coordinator and Program Coordinator played some ball with the clients.
We had a special night Saturday night that we called Celebrate Sobriety. It was a great time to have for the men to relax and enjoy the outdoors!
Former Nashville graduate, Michael Jordan, gainfully employed and doing good. These success stories are what it’s about!
Testimony Tuesday: James Massengill
Intake pic - 08/28/2020
Current pic - 10/12/2020
"Hello, My name is James Massengill. I was born in the city of Memphis in the year of 1987. I'm a father of two boys ages ten and seven. Their names are Aiden and James. They mean the world to me. My life began to take a down fall at the age of fourteen. When I was younger I had a curiosity to explore the world on behalf of my own. Although I knew right from wrong I needed my own experienced life lessons. I got involved in a brotherhood that was a bike club. I was addicted to the lifestyle of a member in a bike club. The only reason I involved my self in that lifestyle was to see what I was capable of. I learned a lot from it good and bad. I didn't get much out of the situation so I began to learn other trades like carpentry, metal working, and machinery. From a early age I had the idea of my own American dream. I decided to get married at the age of twenty. A few years later my dream turned into a nightmare. Once I was single again I went back to the only thing I knew how to do. It lasted for the next twelve years. I always managed to stay out of trouble and not get caught but it finally caught up with me. I was finally apprehended and became a convicted felon. By the grace of God I was given a second chance and was placed on probation. My addiction caused me to violate probation several times due to failing drug tests. I flattened a three year sentence and was released January 2020. While I was incarcerated I lost everything I accomplished over the past years. I called a friend and she referred me to Safe Harbor. She was able to find me a ride and a bed the same day. I came to Safe Harbor to have stability , to learn how to cope on my own with out any substances and to learn financial stability. The biggest thing I also came here for was to get closer to God. By being at Safe Harbor I have learned character traits that will help me be a better father. Everything about Safe Harbor is a lesson to be learned. I want to thank God as well as Safe Harbor for giving me another opportunity to learn again the things I once neglected.
Intake pic - 08/28/2020
Current pic - 10/12/2020
"Hello, My name is James Massengill. I was born in the city of Memphis in the year of 1987. I'm a father of two boys ages ten and seven. Their names are Aiden and James. They mean the world to me. My life began to take a down fall at the age of fourteen. When I was younger I had a curiosity to explore the world on behalf of my own. Although I knew right from wrong I needed my own experienced life lessons. I got involved in a brotherhood that was a bike club. I was addicted to the lifestyle of a member in a bike club. The only reason I involved my self in that lifestyle was to see what I was capable of. I learned a lot from it good and bad. I didn't get much out of the situation so I began to learn other trades like carpentry, metal working, and machinery. From a early age I had the idea of my own American dream. I decided to get married at the age of twenty. A few years later my dream turned into a nightmare. Once I was single again I went back to the only thing I knew how to do. It lasted for the next twelve years. I always managed to stay out of trouble and not get caught but it finally caught up with me. I was finally apprehended and became a convicted felon. By the grace of God I was given a second chance and was placed on probation. My addiction caused me to violate probation several times due to failing drug tests. I flattened a three year sentence and was released January 2020. While I was incarcerated I lost everything I accomplished over the past years. I called a friend and she referred me to Safe Harbor. She was able to find me a ride and a bed the same day. I came to Safe Harbor to have stability , to learn how to cope on my own with out any substances and to learn financial stability. The biggest thing I also came here for was to get closer to God. By being at Safe Harbor I have learned character traits that will help me be a better father. Everything about Safe Harbor is a lesson to be learned. I want to thank God as well as Safe Harbor for giving me another opportunity to learn again the things I once neglected.
You can make a difference while you shop Amazon Prime Day deals on October 13 & 14.
Simply shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/58-1710683 or with AmazonSmile ON in the Amazon Shopping app and AmazonSmile donates to Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc..
It can't get any easier to help Safe Harbor & Lighthouse Mission Ministries!!
Simply shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/58-1710683 or with AmazonSmile ON in the Amazon Shopping app and AmazonSmile donates to Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc..
It can't get any easier to help Safe Harbor & Lighthouse Mission Ministries!!
Testimony Tuesday: Terrill Smith
Intake pic - 09/03/2020
Current pic - 09/29/2020
“My name is Terrill Smith Sr.. I was born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tn. I have one child which is my son. He's a junior. My choice of drugs was cocaine and marijuana. I began using at the age of 14 and 15 I once sold weed and cocaine. That's where my use began. I was pulled over in 2017. I was arrested for possession of weapons. Court requested for me to come to Safe Harbor. I'm glad they accepted me. Safe Harbor has blessed me with a job. It also has taught me to be patient. Last but not least it has to me to think positively in negative situations.”
Intake pic - 09/03/2020
Current pic - 09/29/2020
“My name is Terrill Smith Sr.. I was born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tn. I have one child which is my son. He's a junior. My choice of drugs was cocaine and marijuana. I began using at the age of 14 and 15 I once sold weed and cocaine. That's where my use began. I was pulled over in 2017. I was arrested for possession of weapons. Court requested for me to come to Safe Harbor. I'm glad they accepted me. Safe Harbor has blessed me with a job. It also has taught me to be patient. Last but not least it has to me to think positively in negative situations.”
A weekend full of activities at Bucksnort! Basketball, Horseshoes, visiting Compassion Church in Waverly, and making trails to use for the daily fitness classes!
We were able to watch a great play put on by the Compassion Church called "The Missing". 26 clients attended and half were saved or rededicated their lives to the Lord. What a mighty move of God it was!
We were able to watch a great play put on by the Compassion Church called "The Missing". 26 clients attended and half were saved or rededicated their lives to the Lord. What a mighty move of God it was!
Our latest newsletter is here! Not getting it? Please send us an email to be added to the list!
https://conta.cc/36kU5zx
https://conta.cc/36kU5zx
Bucksnort was blessed again this weekend with multiple donations of a brand new basketball goal, brand new football and a volley ball net! Now to get it set up that's next.
Also our Chaplin getting the first dunk!
Also our Chaplin getting the first dunk!
Before & After on a weekend project at Bucksnort!
Testimony Tuesday: Michael Lininger
Intake pic - 08/19/2020
Current pic - 09/21/2020
“My name is Micheal J. Lininger. I’m 34 years old and I’m a recovering addict. I loved drugs of all types but since I have been in Safe Harbor my life has done a complete turn around, I have gotten most of my family back and a lot closer to God! I was homeless and living in the streets basically before coming here, I am truly blessed to be a part of the Safe Harbor family because it has dramatically helped me in more ways than one. I hope and pray that God makes a way for me to complete this program for me, my family, and my future wife. I never saw myself changing I never thought I had a problem this is the first time in 20 years that I have been sober more than a week. I hope to one day inspire people to wanna change there lives. I really wish my dad could see me now he would be proud of me! I am alive today thanks to God's grace and I will forever be thankful for him never giving up on me, Safe Harbor has really helped me and I will forever be thankful for them!”
Intake pic - 08/19/2020
Current pic - 09/21/2020
“My name is Micheal J. Lininger. I’m 34 years old and I’m a recovering addict. I loved drugs of all types but since I have been in Safe Harbor my life has done a complete turn around, I have gotten most of my family back and a lot closer to God! I was homeless and living in the streets basically before coming here, I am truly blessed to be a part of the Safe Harbor family because it has dramatically helped me in more ways than one. I hope and pray that God makes a way for me to complete this program for me, my family, and my future wife. I never saw myself changing I never thought I had a problem this is the first time in 20 years that I have been sober more than a week. I hope to one day inspire people to wanna change there lives. I really wish my dad could see me now he would be proud of me! I am alive today thanks to God's grace and I will forever be thankful for him never giving up on me, Safe Harbor has really helped me and I will forever be thankful for them!”
Would like to Spotlight James Degraffenried in Bucksnort as he spearheaded the mission to get cable to the Chapel. This involved collecting the length of cable, digging a shallow trench for the wire and feeding it through the ceiling. The men were ecstatic about watching Monday night football last night. Did I mention Chaplin James was off yesterday!? He often goes above and beyond and we appreciate his heart for the men! Great Job
Lifeliner Brannon Powell and guests in powerful AA/NA meeting Monday afternoon.
Celebration Sunday - September 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Bryon Copeland, Freddie White, Larry Stewart, Jonathan Adkins, & Thomas Teffetelleer.
Congratulations to our graduates; Bryon Copeland, Freddie White, Larry Stewart, Jonathan Adkins, & Thomas Teffetelleer.
More pics from Celebration Sunday!
Testimony Tuesday: Thomas Teffeteller
Intake pic - 03/15/2020
Current pic - 09/14/2020
“My name is Thomas Teffeteller. I'm from Blount County, Tennessee. I'm 35 years old. I have a beautiful 15 year old daughter than means the world to me. She's my number one priority at the moment. I grew into addiction at a young age. At the age of 3 I witnessed someone shoot dope in front of my eyes. Being around it knowing what it was about made me interested in doing it more. My life was like a Hollywood movie back then. I knew nothing better to do than get high. Repeating the same mistakes over and over expecting different results made me want to turn my life around. That's when I heard of Safe Harbor. My cousin Mark had been a driver for Safe Harbor for years. Through him I was able to enter the program. Safe Harbor has taught me financial responsibility and that there's a better way to enjoy life than getting high. I'm very thankful for Safe Harbor.”
Intake pic - 03/15/2020
Current pic - 09/14/2020
“My name is Thomas Teffeteller. I'm from Blount County, Tennessee. I'm 35 years old. I have a beautiful 15 year old daughter than means the world to me. She's my number one priority at the moment. I grew into addiction at a young age. At the age of 3 I witnessed someone shoot dope in front of my eyes. Being around it knowing what it was about made me interested in doing it more. My life was like a Hollywood movie back then. I knew nothing better to do than get high. Repeating the same mistakes over and over expecting different results made me want to turn my life around. That's when I heard of Safe Harbor. My cousin Mark had been a driver for Safe Harbor for years. Through him I was able to enter the program. Safe Harbor has taught me financial responsibility and that there's a better way to enjoy life than getting high. I'm very thankful for Safe Harbor.”
We want thank our guest speaker, Larry Mullens, for coming out Wednesday night and speaking to the guys tonight. He is 80 years old and has been sober 31 years today! His testimony was phenomenal, God is great!
Testimony Tuesday: John Crass
Intake pic - 05/20/2020
Current pic - 08/31/2020
"Hi , My name is John Crass. I go by John Black. I came from a family where drugs or alcohol was never involved. I lived a life that neither was a part of. I got a job after high school. Working there for thirteen years I was able to buy my first house at the age of twenty one. After that I got married and had my first son. By the I was twenty five I bought my second house. I spent thirty years of my life on the right track. Shortly there after I went through a divorce.The divorce brought me down and I started partying. I was a single man so I felt the need to do what I wanted. Little did I know this is where my addiction with would begin. Partying became a every day event for me. I met the love of my life. We had twins together. A beautiful son and daughter. My incoherent addiction lead me to another failed relationship. I pushed her into another mans arms. I was sick and tired of going through the same struggles so I decided to join Safe Harbor. Safe Harbor and staff has given me the foundation to make me happy again. I am grateful to be sober. I'm proud of myself again. With God I'm able to love everybody and myself again."
Intake pic - 05/20/2020
Current pic - 08/31/2020
"Hi , My name is John Crass. I go by John Black. I came from a family where drugs or alcohol was never involved. I lived a life that neither was a part of. I got a job after high school. Working there for thirteen years I was able to buy my first house at the age of twenty one. After that I got married and had my first son. By the I was twenty five I bought my second house. I spent thirty years of my life on the right track. Shortly there after I went through a divorce.The divorce brought me down and I started partying. I was a single man so I felt the need to do what I wanted. Little did I know this is where my addiction with would begin. Partying became a every day event for me. I met the love of my life. We had twins together. A beautiful son and daughter. My incoherent addiction lead me to another failed relationship. I pushed her into another mans arms. I was sick and tired of going through the same struggles so I decided to join Safe Harbor. Safe Harbor and staff has given me the foundation to make me happy again. I am grateful to be sober. I'm proud of myself again. With God I'm able to love everybody and myself again."
8am is not to early for a pick up game. Exercise class in full swing!
Testimony Tuesday: Michael Rankins
Intake pic - 06/15/2020
Current pic - 08/24/2020
"My name is Michael Rankins. I'm from Chattanooga, Tennessee. I began using at a very young age. Every since then my life has went down hill. I thought that I had it all under control but things just continued to get worse. My life and decision making became unmanageable. With Safe Harbor I've learned to accept and deal with my mistakes. I would like to thank god and Safe Harbor for giving me another chance to make my life better. With god I can do anything. I just have to keep Him first. God bless!"
Intake pic - 06/15/2020
Current pic - 08/24/2020
"My name is Michael Rankins. I'm from Chattanooga, Tennessee. I began using at a very young age. Every since then my life has went down hill. I thought that I had it all under control but things just continued to get worse. My life and decision making became unmanageable. With Safe Harbor I've learned to accept and deal with my mistakes. I would like to thank god and Safe Harbor for giving me another chance to make my life better. With god I can do anything. I just have to keep Him first. God bless!"
Testimony Tuesday: Mark Davis
Intake pic - 03/16/2020
Current pic - 08/17/2020
“My name is Mark Davis and I'm a sinner saved by grace. I began using and experimenting with methamphetamine in 2010. I started using daily. It became a routine in which I could no longer handle things on my own. I entered Safe Harbor broken with out a clue of where I would be. I lost my family , freedom and my sanity. I'm from Paris, Tennessee. Paris,Tennessee is a place known for its high levels of addiction. I was looking at 15 to 60 years of incarceration. Through the program at Safe Harbor I learned a different way to live life. Due to the change that can be seen in me I'm given another chance at life and another chance at freedom. Safe Harbor put me back on the right track.”
Intake pic - 03/16/2020
Current pic - 08/17/2020
“My name is Mark Davis and I'm a sinner saved by grace. I began using and experimenting with methamphetamine in 2010. I started using daily. It became a routine in which I could no longer handle things on my own. I entered Safe Harbor broken with out a clue of where I would be. I lost my family , freedom and my sanity. I'm from Paris, Tennessee. Paris,Tennessee is a place known for its high levels of addiction. I was looking at 15 to 60 years of incarceration. Through the program at Safe Harbor I learned a different way to live life. Due to the change that can be seen in me I'm given another chance at life and another chance at freedom. Safe Harbor put me back on the right track.”
Celebration Sunday - August 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Grover Moore, Gary Ward, James Wade & Thomas Pendergrast!
Congratulations to our graduates; Grover Moore, Gary Ward, James Wade & Thomas Pendergrast!
Testimony Tuesday: Jesse Taylor
Intake pic - 05/30/2020
Current pic - 08/10/2020
"My name is Jesse Taylor. I'm from Honululu, Hawaii. I was raised by my mother in which she did the best to raise me. I knew my father but never really had a personal relationship with him. I'm also father a five. The first time I was introduced to drugs was when I was twelve. My friends and I smoked a joint. I was hooked from there. I decided to join the crowd after that. By the time I was fifteen I progressed to getting high on whatever I could get my hands on. I continued to use daily. My problems began to get worse. I didn't realize I had a problem until I moved from Hawaii to Maryland. I though moving states would make a difference but all I did was carry my problems with me. So now I'm here at Safe Harbor taking control back over my life. I'm here to make things work better for myself. My previous ways of living resulted in nothing but negative consequences. I'm tired of seeing my kids hurt. I'm here to learn to be a better person and to gain a personal relationship with god. I thank Safe Harbor for giving me the opportunity to change my lifestyle and way of thinking. I pray that this will work for me. Nothing on my own has worked so far. I'm turning my life and will power over to God giving him a chance to make a difference in my life."
Intake pic - 05/30/2020
Current pic - 08/10/2020
"My name is Jesse Taylor. I'm from Honululu, Hawaii. I was raised by my mother in which she did the best to raise me. I knew my father but never really had a personal relationship with him. I'm also father a five. The first time I was introduced to drugs was when I was twelve. My friends and I smoked a joint. I was hooked from there. I decided to join the crowd after that. By the time I was fifteen I progressed to getting high on whatever I could get my hands on. I continued to use daily. My problems began to get worse. I didn't realize I had a problem until I moved from Hawaii to Maryland. I though moving states would make a difference but all I did was carry my problems with me. So now I'm here at Safe Harbor taking control back over my life. I'm here to make things work better for myself. My previous ways of living resulted in nothing but negative consequences. I'm tired of seeing my kids hurt. I'm here to learn to be a better person and to gain a personal relationship with god. I thank Safe Harbor for giving me the opportunity to change my lifestyle and way of thinking. I pray that this will work for me. Nothing on my own has worked so far. I'm turning my life and will power over to God giving him a chance to make a difference in my life."
Testimony Tuesday: William Oshrin
Intake pic - 05/22/2020
Current pic - 07/28/2020
"Howdy! My name is William Oshrin, but most people call me bubba. I can't really say that I had a bad childhood, nor can i say I started using drugs at a young age. Growing up I pretty much sheltered myself and played computer games day in and day out. I was always the person to say "Hey ! You know that stuff is bad for you" every time I seen someone doing any drug. I tried to join the army straight outta high school. I didn't smoke, drink, or do any type of drug whatsoever. I told myself I would never do anything like that. The army ended up rejecting me due to medical issues after that a friend of mine ended up talking me into smoking marijuana, of course I cared. I only smoked marijuana for about 6 years. Well one day another friend of mine asked me if I wanted to try methamphetamine and again I caved. It was all downhill from there. I started doing anything I could get my hands on. Then about 3 years ago, I made the absolute worst decision of my life... I tried the needle. I was stealing anything and everything just to get high. Caught at least 20+ charges in 4 years in 5 counties. In and out of jail constantly, facing 15 years in prison, and the pain I was causing my loved ones, I decided it was time for a change. My mother found Safe Harbor and did everything for me. I was literally scared to death to start this journey. I even tried to leave the first 7 days, yes I was that scared. But I toughed it out and it ended up being the best decision I ever made. Safe Harbor saved my life and I am very grateful to everyone involved! My advice to anyone struggling with active addiction and wants help have faith and take that first step to help yourself. That first step is always the scariest, but there is no way you could be as scared as I was. We got this! you got this! I'm destined for amazing things and it wouldn't be possible without Safe Harbor, from the bottom of my heart, Thank you Safe Harbor you saved my life!"
Intake pic - 05/22/2020
Current pic - 07/28/2020
"Howdy! My name is William Oshrin, but most people call me bubba. I can't really say that I had a bad childhood, nor can i say I started using drugs at a young age. Growing up I pretty much sheltered myself and played computer games day in and day out. I was always the person to say "Hey ! You know that stuff is bad for you" every time I seen someone doing any drug. I tried to join the army straight outta high school. I didn't smoke, drink, or do any type of drug whatsoever. I told myself I would never do anything like that. The army ended up rejecting me due to medical issues after that a friend of mine ended up talking me into smoking marijuana, of course I cared. I only smoked marijuana for about 6 years. Well one day another friend of mine asked me if I wanted to try methamphetamine and again I caved. It was all downhill from there. I started doing anything I could get my hands on. Then about 3 years ago, I made the absolute worst decision of my life... I tried the needle. I was stealing anything and everything just to get high. Caught at least 20+ charges in 4 years in 5 counties. In and out of jail constantly, facing 15 years in prison, and the pain I was causing my loved ones, I decided it was time for a change. My mother found Safe Harbor and did everything for me. I was literally scared to death to start this journey. I even tried to leave the first 7 days, yes I was that scared. But I toughed it out and it ended up being the best decision I ever made. Safe Harbor saved my life and I am very grateful to everyone involved! My advice to anyone struggling with active addiction and wants help have faith and take that first step to help yourself. That first step is always the scariest, but there is no way you could be as scared as I was. We got this! you got this! I'm destined for amazing things and it wouldn't be possible without Safe Harbor, from the bottom of my heart, Thank you Safe Harbor you saved my life!"
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Celebration Sunday - July 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Lonnie Miller, Michael McKissack, Justin Reel, Brandon Whited, Byrall Webb, Patrick Hydorn, Cedric Hopkins, Daniel Stevenson, & Warren Venoy! .
Our Reliable of the Month is Warren Venoy. Congratulations on a job well done!
Congratulations to our graduates; Lonnie Miller, Michael McKissack, Justin Reel, Brandon Whited, Byrall Webb, Patrick Hydorn, Cedric Hopkins, Daniel Stevenson, & Warren Venoy! .
Our Reliable of the Month is Warren Venoy. Congratulations on a job well done!
July 4th 2020
Getting ready for the fireworks! It’s going to be a great night! Happy 4th of July from Bucksnort!
Getting ready for the fireworks! It’s going to be a great night! Happy 4th of July from Bucksnort!
Celebrating Independence Day with God, great food, & great friends!
Fireworks to end the night!
Our latest newsletter is here! https://conta.cc/38hSKs5
If you want to be added to the email list, please click the button below!
If you want to be added to the email list, please click the button below!
We are so very excited to be partnering with Ebbtide! Our men are learning a valuable trade, by learning how to build boats. Thank you Ebbtide for this giving them this opportunity and teaching them this amazing trade.
Testimony Tuesday: Tyler Whittum
Intake pic - 05/15/2020
Current pic - 06/29/2020
“My name is Tyler and I am a recovering addict. I started using drugs when I was 4 years old. I started with inhalants. I slowly graduated to other drugs as I got older. I have been in and out of states custody due to drug use and unruliness. I was sent to group homes, foster homes, and level 4 lockdown facilities. There were times when in my youth, nothing could control me. As I have gotten older my views of the world has changed. I am now 19 months sober and view the world with such new light. During my road to recovery, I have been faced with many obstacles and adversities. I have had to learn how to cope with these obstacles and adversities without drugs. During the last year alone, I have lost both of my parents and thanks to recovery, I have remained strong. I am here to tell you that with God, nothing shall be impossible (Luke 1:37). It is through God and only God that I have remained strong. I am very thankful for Safe Harbor and all of the people on the way that have helped me with my recovery. It goes to show that if you want to achieve something that it can be done through hard work and constant prayer. My advice to anybody that is fresh on the road to recovery is to find your God as you understand Him and remain strong in your faith. The power of prayer is a real thing. With God, nothing shall be impossible, without God you will revert back to the same things you have always known.”
Intake pic - 05/15/2020
Current pic - 06/29/2020
“My name is Tyler and I am a recovering addict. I started using drugs when I was 4 years old. I started with inhalants. I slowly graduated to other drugs as I got older. I have been in and out of states custody due to drug use and unruliness. I was sent to group homes, foster homes, and level 4 lockdown facilities. There were times when in my youth, nothing could control me. As I have gotten older my views of the world has changed. I am now 19 months sober and view the world with such new light. During my road to recovery, I have been faced with many obstacles and adversities. I have had to learn how to cope with these obstacles and adversities without drugs. During the last year alone, I have lost both of my parents and thanks to recovery, I have remained strong. I am here to tell you that with God, nothing shall be impossible (Luke 1:37). It is through God and only God that I have remained strong. I am very thankful for Safe Harbor and all of the people on the way that have helped me with my recovery. It goes to show that if you want to achieve something that it can be done through hard work and constant prayer. My advice to anybody that is fresh on the road to recovery is to find your God as you understand Him and remain strong in your faith. The power of prayer is a real thing. With God, nothing shall be impossible, without God you will revert back to the same things you have always known.”
Had an awesome Baptism here in Bucksnort over the weekend. Ten men publicly proclaimed Jesus as their Lord and Savior. We are very proud and celebrate with these men's decision to accept Jesus!
After Baptism our men enjoyed some swim time and fun. Our own Chaplain James decided to give the rope swing a try!
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort had an excellent time after the Dollar General run on Saturday when we went swimming at Tumbling Creek. The men had a great time swinging from the rope into the water and enjoyed the sun!
Basketball with the guys on Saturday! Perfect weather!
Testimony Tuesday: Cody Campbell
Intake pic - 03/05/2020
Current pic - 05/24/2020
"This is my testimony my life story. Well let me say this both of my parents were addicts. My father died of hepatitis-c when I was 3 years old, also my mother took her life when I was 6 years old. The day she killed herself was the day I lost everything! As a 6 year old kid seeing what my mother did shattered my soul. I felt like I lost my mind at only 6 years old I had a very different outlook on life than others did. As the years started to go by I started to getting in a lot of fights at school and also with my family. Around the age of 12 I thought surely I couldn't lose anybody else and then my sister passed away. At the age of 13 years old I started using alcohol and smoking marijuana to just dull the pain and to try and forget the pain. When I turned 25 years old my son was born and I said to myself I was going to change because I don't want my my son being anything like me. I have tried and tried to quit but the devil was pulling me in day by day and he's hard to fight on your own. I finally got clean and sober at the age of 27 years, I had 9 months clean and the holidays started coming thanksgiving, Christmas, and new years. These are really hard times for me especially due to my mother passing away on January 21st and her birthday being January 22nd so I just put myself into a dark place every time, well I relapsed again on heroin and was using non stop for about a month. I called a good friend of mine and told her I relapsed and that I needed help, she helped me get into Safe Harbor and I was happy to come here but I was still using and on my second day of being here I overdosed, I fell out right inside the chapel the last thing I remember looking at was the cross in the chapel. I just stopped breathing! But they saved my life and the way I feel about it is God gave me another chance to help others with my story and I wholeheartedly believe I'm here to help others like myself because I truly know how it feels and how it is. Safe Harbor has truly saved my life and I am truly blessed to be here and to be alive and breathing! I thank God for my second chance at life and I know I will succeed at life this time I have to much to live for and I want to live!"
Intake pic - 03/05/2020
Current pic - 05/24/2020
"This is my testimony my life story. Well let me say this both of my parents were addicts. My father died of hepatitis-c when I was 3 years old, also my mother took her life when I was 6 years old. The day she killed herself was the day I lost everything! As a 6 year old kid seeing what my mother did shattered my soul. I felt like I lost my mind at only 6 years old I had a very different outlook on life than others did. As the years started to go by I started to getting in a lot of fights at school and also with my family. Around the age of 12 I thought surely I couldn't lose anybody else and then my sister passed away. At the age of 13 years old I started using alcohol and smoking marijuana to just dull the pain and to try and forget the pain. When I turned 25 years old my son was born and I said to myself I was going to change because I don't want my my son being anything like me. I have tried and tried to quit but the devil was pulling me in day by day and he's hard to fight on your own. I finally got clean and sober at the age of 27 years, I had 9 months clean and the holidays started coming thanksgiving, Christmas, and new years. These are really hard times for me especially due to my mother passing away on January 21st and her birthday being January 22nd so I just put myself into a dark place every time, well I relapsed again on heroin and was using non stop for about a month. I called a good friend of mine and told her I relapsed and that I needed help, she helped me get into Safe Harbor and I was happy to come here but I was still using and on my second day of being here I overdosed, I fell out right inside the chapel the last thing I remember looking at was the cross in the chapel. I just stopped breathing! But they saved my life and the way I feel about it is God gave me another chance to help others with my story and I wholeheartedly believe I'm here to help others like myself because I truly know how it feels and how it is. Safe Harbor has truly saved my life and I am truly blessed to be here and to be alive and breathing! I thank God for my second chance at life and I know I will succeed at life this time I have to much to live for and I want to live!"
Big shout out to James Degraffenreid for leading a great service Sunday night!
Testimony Tuesday: Brandon Whited
Intake pic - 01/15/2020
Current pic - 05/17/2020
"My name is Brandon Whited, I am a recovering addict I have been an addict since I was 14 years old. Before getting to Safe Harbor opiates and heroin took me down a long road to hell. I was lost, hopeless, and helpless. I have tried to conquer this mental illness called addiction so many times. I've always failed over and over, I have a great heart but my problem has always kept me in an evil state of mind and regret. I've hurt my family, my friends, and myself as well. Now that I'm in Safe Harbor I am much better off and more confident in recovery than I have ever been. My main motivations are my son, my ol'lady "Kiana", and God! This place has really helped me out and has taught me patience. I would've never made it this far without God, Kiana, and being pushed by the people who truly care for and about me. If you ever need help and are reading this call Safe Harbor, Thank you Kiana, Brianna, and Mom&Dad!!!"
Intake pic - 01/15/2020
Current pic - 05/17/2020
"My name is Brandon Whited, I am a recovering addict I have been an addict since I was 14 years old. Before getting to Safe Harbor opiates and heroin took me down a long road to hell. I was lost, hopeless, and helpless. I have tried to conquer this mental illness called addiction so many times. I've always failed over and over, I have a great heart but my problem has always kept me in an evil state of mind and regret. I've hurt my family, my friends, and myself as well. Now that I'm in Safe Harbor I am much better off and more confident in recovery than I have ever been. My main motivations are my son, my ol'lady "Kiana", and God! This place has really helped me out and has taught me patience. I would've never made it this far without God, Kiana, and being pushed by the people who truly care for and about me. If you ever need help and are reading this call Safe Harbor, Thank you Kiana, Brianna, and Mom&Dad!!!"
Bingo night in Bucksnort and everyone wanted to say hi!
Congratulations to our Bingo Winners
Congratulations to our Bingo Winners
Testimony Tuesday: Kaleb Oneal
Intake pic - 02/27/2020
Current pic - 04/26/2020
"My name is Kaleb Oneal. Before coming to Safe Harbor I was locked up in Shelby Co. Department of Corrections for three years. I'm only 23 years old and a recovering addict. Now that I'm here at Safe Harbor I am drug free and I work four days a week. I've been saving money, I'm progressing already! When I graduate I want to rent my own place to live, get a car, and start a drug free life.By the grace of God I'm finally on the right path and will not let anything get in my way because my life is counting on it. I am truly blessed beyond belief, I thank God for Safe Harbor and the chance to fix my life for the long haul!"
Intake pic - 02/27/2020
Current pic - 04/26/2020
"My name is Kaleb Oneal. Before coming to Safe Harbor I was locked up in Shelby Co. Department of Corrections for three years. I'm only 23 years old and a recovering addict. Now that I'm here at Safe Harbor I am drug free and I work four days a week. I've been saving money, I'm progressing already! When I graduate I want to rent my own place to live, get a car, and start a drug free life.By the grace of God I'm finally on the right path and will not let anything get in my way because my life is counting on it. I am truly blessed beyond belief, I thank God for Safe Harbor and the chance to fix my life for the long haul!"
Blessed Weekend!
James Wade & Mark Davis donated chips, dips & sodas for our clients in Bucksnort. Such a giving spirit around here! We had and awesome day and the guys are loving it!
James Wade & Mark Davis donated chips, dips & sodas for our clients in Bucksnort. Such a giving spirit around here! We had and awesome day and the guys are loving it!
Thanks guys for helping serve chips and dip. Shout out to Brian Stout for setting the movies up. So proud of the attitude of gratitude here at Bucksnort!
Testimony Tuesday: Ozborne Withrow
Intake pic - 01/30/2020
Current pic - 04/20/2020
“My name is Ozborne Withrow I am 20 years old. I am from McEwen TN. I was raised by my grandparents who tried to keep me out of trouble. I am a pretty good mechanic and love to work on cars. At the age of 16 I started using drugs and started to steal and lie from the people that was closets to me. I became a dad at a young age at the time i just wasn't ready for that, I lost everything I cared about and it broke me mentally and physically. I got stabbed in January of 2020, I was on life support for three days and when I awoke I finally realized I needed to get help! So I heard about Safe Harbor from a close friend of mine. After I was released from the hospital I went to Safe Harbor. I have been here in recovery for three months it has truly changed me. I now own a car, have saved money, and have a relationship again with my friends and family as well as my child's mother. My story is filled with bad choices, broken pieces, and a lot of hurt, it is also filled with a major comeback, freedom in my life, peace in my soul, and a savior who restored everything I love. I am truly thankful for the staff Josh Smith, Troy Beasley, and the Director Jay Butts. They have all helped me tremendously! I just want to thank God and everyone who's ever believed in me and that's never gave up. Thank you Safe Harbor I now have another shot at life!!!!!”
Intake pic - 01/30/2020
Current pic - 04/20/2020
“My name is Ozborne Withrow I am 20 years old. I am from McEwen TN. I was raised by my grandparents who tried to keep me out of trouble. I am a pretty good mechanic and love to work on cars. At the age of 16 I started using drugs and started to steal and lie from the people that was closets to me. I became a dad at a young age at the time i just wasn't ready for that, I lost everything I cared about and it broke me mentally and physically. I got stabbed in January of 2020, I was on life support for three days and when I awoke I finally realized I needed to get help! So I heard about Safe Harbor from a close friend of mine. After I was released from the hospital I went to Safe Harbor. I have been here in recovery for three months it has truly changed me. I now own a car, have saved money, and have a relationship again with my friends and family as well as my child's mother. My story is filled with bad choices, broken pieces, and a lot of hurt, it is also filled with a major comeback, freedom in my life, peace in my soul, and a savior who restored everything I love. I am truly thankful for the staff Josh Smith, Troy Beasley, and the Director Jay Butts. They have all helped me tremendously! I just want to thank God and everyone who's ever believed in me and that's never gave up. Thank you Safe Harbor I now have another shot at life!!!!!”
Celebration Sunday - April 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Scott Cursey, Barry Rippy, Matthew Rodriguez, Jacob Pruitt, Terry Elwell, Troy Beasley, Lance Newcomb, Scotty Jones, & Chad Depriest!
Congratulations to our graduates; Scott Cursey, Barry Rippy, Matthew Rodriguez, Jacob Pruitt, Terry Elwell, Troy Beasley, Lance Newcomb, Scotty Jones, & Chad Depriest!
Happy April Birthday to Beau Adcock, Charles Bratton, Thomas Pendergrast, Charles Jordan, & Justin Reel!
Our Client of the Month is James Wade. Congratulations!
Congratulations to our Dorm of the Month!
Our Reliable of the Month is Zachary English! Congrats!!
The clients are excited about putting their plaques on the wall in Bucksnort!
"Basketball with the guys on Saturdays is becoming a routine. I grab the ball and before I know it, we have a crowd. After a few shots, we are taken back to the backyard where we grew up or a street court down from our old houses. These are some of the best times to get to know the guys. I am so proud of some these guys here right now." - Jeffrey Roberson, Reliable Director
"Some of these guys should have been quarterbacks. They can throw the football a mile! What a great day in Bucksnort!"
"Some of these guys should have been quarterbacks. They can throw the football a mile! What a great day in Bucksnort!"
Testimony Tuesday: Justin Reel
Intake pic - 01/25/2020
Current pic - 04/12/2020
"My name Justin Reel I am 32 years old I was born in Kingman, Arizona and moved to Tennessee when i was just a toddler. I grew up in Milan, Tennessee I was raised by my mother who worked a factory job and supported 5 kids she did the best she could and tried to raise us right. As a child I was raised up to be in church as I grew up, I fell out of attending church and began to start hanging out with the wrong crowd of people. I've been in and out of jail a lot in 2015. I got on drugs and it drastically changed my life for the worse, I didn't want my family, or friends or God when I was in my addiction. I tried to be a father to my 9 year old son but the addiction changed who I was as a father. Then in January of 2020 I wanted a change for me and my family, so my mother asked me to check out Safe Harbor in Bucksnort, Tennessee. I agreed and have been here since 01/25/2020. This program has changed my life for the better. I am a better person since I've been here, I got closer to God and got a new relationship with my son and mother. I have now found my inner peace with Lord and have been so blessed since I have been here and honestly believed Safe Harbor has brought me closer to God and changed my life for the better so that I can be a better father. I have grown closer to God and now I know there is hope for me if I just believe and have faith that God is in control of my life. I had to give up my old ways and let God in my life to change me, everything is possible if you will just trust in God and let him do his will for your life. I owe it all to God and I thank God for Safe Harbor."
Intake pic - 01/25/2020
Current pic - 04/12/2020
"My name Justin Reel I am 32 years old I was born in Kingman, Arizona and moved to Tennessee when i was just a toddler. I grew up in Milan, Tennessee I was raised by my mother who worked a factory job and supported 5 kids she did the best she could and tried to raise us right. As a child I was raised up to be in church as I grew up, I fell out of attending church and began to start hanging out with the wrong crowd of people. I've been in and out of jail a lot in 2015. I got on drugs and it drastically changed my life for the worse, I didn't want my family, or friends or God when I was in my addiction. I tried to be a father to my 9 year old son but the addiction changed who I was as a father. Then in January of 2020 I wanted a change for me and my family, so my mother asked me to check out Safe Harbor in Bucksnort, Tennessee. I agreed and have been here since 01/25/2020. This program has changed my life for the better. I am a better person since I've been here, I got closer to God and got a new relationship with my son and mother. I have now found my inner peace with Lord and have been so blessed since I have been here and honestly believed Safe Harbor has brought me closer to God and changed my life for the better so that I can be a better father. I have grown closer to God and now I know there is hope for me if I just believe and have faith that God is in control of my life. I had to give up my old ways and let God in my life to change me, everything is possible if you will just trust in God and let him do his will for your life. I owe it all to God and I thank God for Safe Harbor."
“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated, we are Safe Harbor Strong”
Proud of our men here at Safe Harbor!
Proud of our men here at Safe Harbor!
Easter in Bucksnort
Good gracious! Look at those pork shoulders after 3 hours of smoking. Had to wrap and smoke for another 17 hours. Clients are so excited. Big shout out to Ron, Shawn, and Bobby for making sure this gets done right tonight! These guys are dedicated to making sure things get done RIGHT!
Good gracious! Look at those pork shoulders after 3 hours of smoking. Had to wrap and smoke for another 17 hours. Clients are so excited. Big shout out to Ron, Shawn, and Bobby for making sure this gets done right tonight! These guys are dedicated to making sure things get done RIGHT!
Grilled hamburgers and fries for lunch and pulled pork for dinner. Great job Jeffrey Roberson on the hamburgers.
Thank you Margy for coming to help this weekend at Bucksnort!
A big shout out to the awesome kitchen crew that helped with the food for this client appreciation weekend. You guys are rock stars. David Spink, Scott Cursey, Cody Copeland, Tyler Whittum, Kitchen manager Brian Stout, Mark Davis, and Andrew Love.
The guys are getting ready for the horse shoe tournament this morning. Some of them are already claiming victory! We shall see
Let the games begin. Great crowd has turned out here in Bucksnort for the horseshoe tournament. The first horseshoe was pitched at 10am. We will follow up with the winners when we have one.
Let the games begin. Great crowd has turned out here in Bucksnort for the horseshoe tournament. The first horseshoe was pitched at 10am. We will follow up with the winners when we have one.
And the winner is! Congratulations Maxwell Wade and Nathaniel Chapuis for winning the horseshoe tournament and the $25 gift cards. Great job guys.
WOW! What a powerful message Jonathan G Newcomb brought to the clients tonight for our Easter service.
It’s Friday, but Sunday is coming!
Spoiler Alert: The tomb was empty
Spoiler Alert: The tomb was empty
The guys just finished the new horseshoe pits here in Bucksnort. This is the first game played and they were so excited for the staff to take a few minutes to play with them!
Clients getting things cleaned up and in order for all the festivities planned for this Easter weekend. We are blessed with a wonderful group of men.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, the Spring Revival scheduled for the week of 4/5/2020 is being rescheduled. We are sorry for the inconvenience and will update as soon as we have further information.
2020 1st Quarter Newsletter: https://conta.cc/33ZpPa0
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Not getting our newsletters? Please send us a message with your email address requesting to be added to the list.
Testimony Tuesday: Bryon Copeland
Intake pic - 12/16/2019
Current pic - 04/04/2020
“My name is Bryon Copeland everyone just calls me Cody though, I'm 27 years old. I'm from a small town in Morgan county TN. That's where my story starts, I was raised by my grandparents up until the 8th grade. They are very religious people we were always in church, every church event they had we were there. I never wanted for anything except my mother. I was living with her while I was in the 3rd grade until one night she just left without a word. I didn't see her again until some time later. I started smoking marijuana in the 8th grade, I didn't start using heavy drugs until sophomore year in high school. I began to start using pills and methamphetamine every once and awhile, this continued until I moved to Roane county TN with my girlfriend. My girlfriend was a heavy pill addict. I wasn't working at the time because of my schooling, I was attending Tennessee Technology Center to become a machinist. I needed money so I began manufacturing methamphetamine and that's where my life got dark real quick. I was using methamphetamine and pills everyday then me and my girlfriend separated on and off we would get back together but it was always the same outcome. My addiction was getting worse and worse every second of every day, until this last time I was locked up I knew I was done with drugs and the same old lifestyle m, I needed help. I was told about Safe Harbor from a fellow inmate. I spoke to my mother and brother and asked them to look into it, now here I am 3 months left in the program with a new outlook on life. I'm excited to get up and go to work every morning. I have this new sense of eternal peace about me and my life. I know with Gods help and the foundation of Safe Harbor my future is looking bright. I just want to thank God for everything he has done for me and for Safe Harbor and the staff it has truly changed my life for the better. God is good!”
Intake pic - 12/16/2019
Current pic - 04/04/2020
“My name is Bryon Copeland everyone just calls me Cody though, I'm 27 years old. I'm from a small town in Morgan county TN. That's where my story starts, I was raised by my grandparents up until the 8th grade. They are very religious people we were always in church, every church event they had we were there. I never wanted for anything except my mother. I was living with her while I was in the 3rd grade until one night she just left without a word. I didn't see her again until some time later. I started smoking marijuana in the 8th grade, I didn't start using heavy drugs until sophomore year in high school. I began to start using pills and methamphetamine every once and awhile, this continued until I moved to Roane county TN with my girlfriend. My girlfriend was a heavy pill addict. I wasn't working at the time because of my schooling, I was attending Tennessee Technology Center to become a machinist. I needed money so I began manufacturing methamphetamine and that's where my life got dark real quick. I was using methamphetamine and pills everyday then me and my girlfriend separated on and off we would get back together but it was always the same outcome. My addiction was getting worse and worse every second of every day, until this last time I was locked up I knew I was done with drugs and the same old lifestyle m, I needed help. I was told about Safe Harbor from a fellow inmate. I spoke to my mother and brother and asked them to look into it, now here I am 3 months left in the program with a new outlook on life. I'm excited to get up and go to work every morning. I have this new sense of eternal peace about me and my life. I know with Gods help and the foundation of Safe Harbor my future is looking bright. I just want to thank God for everything he has done for me and for Safe Harbor and the staff it has truly changed my life for the better. God is good!”
Testimony Tuesday: Byrall Webb
Intake pic - 01/21/2020
Current pic - 03/30/2020
"My name is Byrall Webb, months ago I decided to get back in the streets. I got back with my old crowd. I left a good job, good friends, and a good family relationship and returned back to the backstabbing so called friends in the streets. I started back selling drugs, drinking, and using drugs. I put myself in very dangerous situations. I thrived on the danger and violence of the streets. I'm more addicted to the dangerous life style and money and the women than I am the drugs and alcohol. In January I seen myself heading to the point of no return. I had no job, lost a good relationship, everything I built, attained and accomplished was lost. I knew if I didn't do something my life would be over! So I heard about Safe Harbor. This counselor at Vanderbilt told me about Safe Harbor, she even made the call and set it up for me to go there. I arrived here January 20th 2020, It's now march 30th 2020. I'm clean and sober, I'm safe, in a better state of mind. I have a great job and I am on the right road, my future is looking good. Thanks to Safe Harbor program I am a new person headed in the right direction. I feel good I am blessed and thankful for another chance and to have my life back.
Intake pic - 01/21/2020
Current pic - 03/30/2020
"My name is Byrall Webb, months ago I decided to get back in the streets. I got back with my old crowd. I left a good job, good friends, and a good family relationship and returned back to the backstabbing so called friends in the streets. I started back selling drugs, drinking, and using drugs. I put myself in very dangerous situations. I thrived on the danger and violence of the streets. I'm more addicted to the dangerous life style and money and the women than I am the drugs and alcohol. In January I seen myself heading to the point of no return. I had no job, lost a good relationship, everything I built, attained and accomplished was lost. I knew if I didn't do something my life would be over! So I heard about Safe Harbor. This counselor at Vanderbilt told me about Safe Harbor, she even made the call and set it up for me to go there. I arrived here January 20th 2020, It's now march 30th 2020. I'm clean and sober, I'm safe, in a better state of mind. I have a great job and I am on the right road, my future is looking good. Thanks to Safe Harbor program I am a new person headed in the right direction. I feel good I am blessed and thankful for another chance and to have my life back.
Testimony Tuesday: Zachary English
Intake pic - 12/05/2019
Current pic - 03/23/2020
"When I was a kid I thought I had it made. I never knew what my parents allowed me to do would affect me as an adult. At a young age my mom and dad split up mainly because of their addiction to methamphetamine. When I was about 11 years old my dad left me and my little brother. Me being the the oldest brother I felt obligated to step up which brought my childhood to a halt very quickly. But during this time I pretty much did what I wanted with no repercussions because my mom had already moved another man in the house and wasn't really concerned with what me and my brother were doing. Me and my little brother ran the streets all the time, we never had what we needed as far as clean clothes for school, food, or discipline. So me being old enough to know why this was happening made me very angry, I would get into fights in school, steal, and vandalize houses. When I was 19 years old I started using methamphetamine with my dad, it escalated very quickly. I was in Mississippi working with my dad. I had a good job with him but then I stole my bosses truck and ended up getting fired and moved back to Tennessee. When I came back to Tennessee my mom and step dad were to no surprise still using. Years later we ended up getting busted for making methamphetamine. They took our house and everything we owned. For sometime after that things were pretty messed up. I found a woman and married her and that didn't last very long. I also ended up getting her addicted to methamphetamine and destroyed my marriage from the inside out. Along down the road I started using methamphetamine intravenously. I was so desperate. I would steal, rob, lie anything I could to get some dope. The hardest thing I think I ever had to do though was ask my mom to inject me with methamphetamine. I broke her heart by having to do this and it still bothers me everyday. Now I'm happy to say that i'm 4 months clean and sober. I do have my days when I think about the needle but everyday I remember what a dark place I was in. So the only time I look back is to not forget where I'm going and I thank god everyday that I don't have to live like that. I'm a much happier man sober and I can live with my decisions today cause I do the best I can to make the right decisions. I don't make excuses nor do I live in the past I just live for today. I'm so thankful for Safe Harbor and I am truly blessed beyond belief"
Intake pic - 12/05/2019
Current pic - 03/23/2020
"When I was a kid I thought I had it made. I never knew what my parents allowed me to do would affect me as an adult. At a young age my mom and dad split up mainly because of their addiction to methamphetamine. When I was about 11 years old my dad left me and my little brother. Me being the the oldest brother I felt obligated to step up which brought my childhood to a halt very quickly. But during this time I pretty much did what I wanted with no repercussions because my mom had already moved another man in the house and wasn't really concerned with what me and my brother were doing. Me and my little brother ran the streets all the time, we never had what we needed as far as clean clothes for school, food, or discipline. So me being old enough to know why this was happening made me very angry, I would get into fights in school, steal, and vandalize houses. When I was 19 years old I started using methamphetamine with my dad, it escalated very quickly. I was in Mississippi working with my dad. I had a good job with him but then I stole my bosses truck and ended up getting fired and moved back to Tennessee. When I came back to Tennessee my mom and step dad were to no surprise still using. Years later we ended up getting busted for making methamphetamine. They took our house and everything we owned. For sometime after that things were pretty messed up. I found a woman and married her and that didn't last very long. I also ended up getting her addicted to methamphetamine and destroyed my marriage from the inside out. Along down the road I started using methamphetamine intravenously. I was so desperate. I would steal, rob, lie anything I could to get some dope. The hardest thing I think I ever had to do though was ask my mom to inject me with methamphetamine. I broke her heart by having to do this and it still bothers me everyday. Now I'm happy to say that i'm 4 months clean and sober. I do have my days when I think about the needle but everyday I remember what a dark place I was in. So the only time I look back is to not forget where I'm going and I thank god everyday that I don't have to live like that. I'm a much happier man sober and I can live with my decisions today cause I do the best I can to make the right decisions. I don't make excuses nor do I live in the past I just live for today. I'm so thankful for Safe Harbor and I am truly blessed beyond belief"
Celebration Sunday - March 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Blake Stockdale, Charles Harding, Gerlado Fontanez, Jacob Chitwood, Ethan Brewer, Harold Smith, James McMillin, & Malvin Hester!
Congratulations to our graduates; Blake Stockdale, Charles Harding, Gerlado Fontanez, Jacob Chitwood, Ethan Brewer, Harold Smith, James McMillin, & Malvin Hester!
Happy March Birthday to Bryall Webb, Robert Jones, Billy Milam, Robert Gipson, & Mark Reed!
Our Reliable of the Month was Justice Wertin! Congrats
Our Client of the Month was Grover Moore. Congrats!
Our Client Volunteer of the Month went to Troy Beasley! Congrats
Our Staff Member of the Month was Joshua Smith!
Congratulations to our Dorm of the Month!
Our Partner of the Month was Truform!
Testimony Tuesday: Chad DePriest
Intake pic - 08/10/2019
Current pic - 03/09/2020
“My name is Chad DePriest I am from Atwood,TN. I am forty three years old, and I was a meth addict. Before I came to safe harbor I was homeless, strung out and on my way back to prison! I done meth for the first time when I was twenty six years old, I continued doing meth on and off until I was thirty two years old. I got a divorce and I went wild, became a full blown meth addict. I was trying to escape reality. Well from 2009 to 2019 I have been locked up in and out of county jails and prison. I got released from prison on September 10th 2019 within three days of being released out of prison I was high. I went to stay with my brother then went to report to my probation appointment and failed my u.a., Luckily she cut me a break and allowed me to go to Safe Harbor and complete the program. My life was a total wreck, I was skinny, in bad health. At first I didn't know if I could make it here. But I did something I never did before, I opened up and talked to people mainly the staff. Chris and Josh because I felt comfortable talking to them. That is one thing that helps me a lot. They gave me hope. I continued to follow the program, I didn't allow myself to feed into the bad around me. But I began to realize things were getting better and better for me. I am now clean and sober I have a stable job , I have money saved up , and I am blessed all around today. Safe Harbor saved my life by believing in me and never giving up on me. I promised everyone I would get better and that's what I did! This program works if you work it I'm living proof of this, its going to be hard sometimes but don't give up. talk to staff, work out your problems because it's worth it in the end!”
Intake pic - 08/10/2019
Current pic - 03/09/2020
“My name is Chad DePriest I am from Atwood,TN. I am forty three years old, and I was a meth addict. Before I came to safe harbor I was homeless, strung out and on my way back to prison! I done meth for the first time when I was twenty six years old, I continued doing meth on and off until I was thirty two years old. I got a divorce and I went wild, became a full blown meth addict. I was trying to escape reality. Well from 2009 to 2019 I have been locked up in and out of county jails and prison. I got released from prison on September 10th 2019 within three days of being released out of prison I was high. I went to stay with my brother then went to report to my probation appointment and failed my u.a., Luckily she cut me a break and allowed me to go to Safe Harbor and complete the program. My life was a total wreck, I was skinny, in bad health. At first I didn't know if I could make it here. But I did something I never did before, I opened up and talked to people mainly the staff. Chris and Josh because I felt comfortable talking to them. That is one thing that helps me a lot. They gave me hope. I continued to follow the program, I didn't allow myself to feed into the bad around me. But I began to realize things were getting better and better for me. I am now clean and sober I have a stable job , I have money saved up , and I am blessed all around today. Safe Harbor saved my life by believing in me and never giving up on me. I promised everyone I would get better and that's what I did! This program works if you work it I'm living proof of this, its going to be hard sometimes but don't give up. talk to staff, work out your problems because it's worth it in the end!”
Testimony Tuesday: Geraldo Fontanez
Intake pic - 09/23/2019
Current pic - 03/02/2020
"My name is Geraldo Fontanez. Before I came to this program I was homeless getting drunk and high going from house to house sleeping on strangers couches and stealing from them. When i came to Safe Harbor at first I didn't think I was going to make it. Then I met Chris Somerville, he has been like the uncle I never had. He has helped me tremendously, he showed me I can change and that it's ok to swallow your pride. Joshua Smith and Lance Newcomb taught me how to have fun without using drugs, how to laugh at the things that happen to us in life instead of letting it affect us negatively. Jonathan Newcomb showed me how to put my faith in God and to keep focusing on the now instead of the past or the things I can't control. I just want to thank Safe Harbor and all its staff for everything they've done for me it truly has changed my life for the better and i will forever be thankful. Thank you Safe Harbor and Thank you God for giving me my life back!"
Intake pic - 09/23/2019
Current pic - 03/02/2020
"My name is Geraldo Fontanez. Before I came to this program I was homeless getting drunk and high going from house to house sleeping on strangers couches and stealing from them. When i came to Safe Harbor at first I didn't think I was going to make it. Then I met Chris Somerville, he has been like the uncle I never had. He has helped me tremendously, he showed me I can change and that it's ok to swallow your pride. Joshua Smith and Lance Newcomb taught me how to have fun without using drugs, how to laugh at the things that happen to us in life instead of letting it affect us negatively. Jonathan Newcomb showed me how to put my faith in God and to keep focusing on the now instead of the past or the things I can't control. I just want to thank Safe Harbor and all its staff for everything they've done for me it truly has changed my life for the better and i will forever be thankful. Thank you Safe Harbor and Thank you God for giving me my life back!"
Welcome to our newest partner - The Bakery Cos. / Tennessee Bun Company
What a great tour of The Bakery Cos. / Tennessee Bun Company in Dickson this morning! We are so proud to partner with this company to offer a great employment opportunity for the men in our program. Pictured from Left to right: Pastor Gary Kenney Director of Erin, John Newcomb Regional Director Erin, Bucksnort and Jefferson County. Teresa Cooper HR Manager Tn Bun Company, Kenny Lane Director of Operations Safe Harbor, back row Jeffrey Roberson Reliable Bucksnort, Matt Ellis Reliable Erin. Jason Butts Director Bucksnort!
www.facebook.com/bakerycos
What a great tour of The Bakery Cos. / Tennessee Bun Company in Dickson this morning! We are so proud to partner with this company to offer a great employment opportunity for the men in our program. Pictured from Left to right: Pastor Gary Kenney Director of Erin, John Newcomb Regional Director Erin, Bucksnort and Jefferson County. Teresa Cooper HR Manager Tn Bun Company, Kenny Lane Director of Operations Safe Harbor, back row Jeffrey Roberson Reliable Bucksnort, Matt Ellis Reliable Erin. Jason Butts Director Bucksnort!
www.facebook.com/bakerycos
Testimony Tuesday: Phillip Bradley
Intake pic - 10/18/2019
Current pic - 02/24/2020
"I entered Safe harbor of Bucksnort on 10/18/2019. When I arrived I was still in a state of mind not of clarity. I have been here for four months and have received from the staff nothing but the best service. The classes and meetings are very helpful and informative. They really are thorough with the books and instructions on how to get sober. The church service on Sunday is also wonderful! The clients here are very helpful as well, I know I always have someone to help me if I'm in need. I'm very grateful to have an opportunity here at Safe Harbor. They provided me with a job and Transportation to and from work as well as three meals a day a roof over my head, I truly thank God everyday for this place of safety."
Intake pic - 10/18/2019
Current pic - 02/24/2020
"I entered Safe harbor of Bucksnort on 10/18/2019. When I arrived I was still in a state of mind not of clarity. I have been here for four months and have received from the staff nothing but the best service. The classes and meetings are very helpful and informative. They really are thorough with the books and instructions on how to get sober. The church service on Sunday is also wonderful! The clients here are very helpful as well, I know I always have someone to help me if I'm in need. I'm very grateful to have an opportunity here at Safe Harbor. They provided me with a job and Transportation to and from work as well as three meals a day a roof over my head, I truly thank God everyday for this place of safety."
Testimony Tuesday: Nathaniel Bryant
Intake pic - 09/13/2019
Current pic - 02/17/2020
"My name is Nathaniel Bryant, I was born in Berlin Germany October 30th 1991. My father served in the military for twenty years. I grew up in Texas, and Georgia, but I spent most of my time in Georgia. I had great parents but I didn't grow up in a church household, we didn't have the most godliest atmosphere. Every summer I would go up to my grandparents house in North Carolina, and they would keep me and my cousins. We would all go to church together. My grandmother and my aunt taught me a lot about God. Growing up I always seemed to have a problem of thinking less of myself, like I was never good enough for some reason. That feeling eventually led me to a path of drugs and alcohol, which I thought made me feel powerful! I've been arrested over forty times, all alcohol and drug related. I experienced a lot of heartbreak from failed relationships with the wrong women. I did receive a great blessing from one, and that is my ten year old boy. Who motivates me everyday to finish this program so I can get back to him and my family. I foolishly let a woman break me down spiritually, financially, and emotionally which is what led me to Safe Harbor. Since I've been here these last three months I have learned a lot of new things. One is that I am way stronger and resilient then I ever thought. I have gained more wisdom and understanding, I've matured in myself and more into God. I know now that God needed me to go through this wilderness because he has a special soul purpose for me that I must fulfill. I can honestly say now that I am thankful of all my short comings and sorrows that led me here. It was all necessary. They were blessings in disguise. Before I came I was full of disgust, shame, self-pity, and hatred/anger, and suicidal thoughts. God will do what he needs to do to remove the bad from you, to restore the good. Once he has taught me I shall come forth pure as gold."
Intake pic - 09/13/2019
Current pic - 02/17/2020
"My name is Nathaniel Bryant, I was born in Berlin Germany October 30th 1991. My father served in the military for twenty years. I grew up in Texas, and Georgia, but I spent most of my time in Georgia. I had great parents but I didn't grow up in a church household, we didn't have the most godliest atmosphere. Every summer I would go up to my grandparents house in North Carolina, and they would keep me and my cousins. We would all go to church together. My grandmother and my aunt taught me a lot about God. Growing up I always seemed to have a problem of thinking less of myself, like I was never good enough for some reason. That feeling eventually led me to a path of drugs and alcohol, which I thought made me feel powerful! I've been arrested over forty times, all alcohol and drug related. I experienced a lot of heartbreak from failed relationships with the wrong women. I did receive a great blessing from one, and that is my ten year old boy. Who motivates me everyday to finish this program so I can get back to him and my family. I foolishly let a woman break me down spiritually, financially, and emotionally which is what led me to Safe Harbor. Since I've been here these last three months I have learned a lot of new things. One is that I am way stronger and resilient then I ever thought. I have gained more wisdom and understanding, I've matured in myself and more into God. I know now that God needed me to go through this wilderness because he has a special soul purpose for me that I must fulfill. I can honestly say now that I am thankful of all my short comings and sorrows that led me here. It was all necessary. They were blessings in disguise. Before I came I was full of disgust, shame, self-pity, and hatred/anger, and suicidal thoughts. God will do what he needs to do to remove the bad from you, to restore the good. Once he has taught me I shall come forth pure as gold."
Celebration Sunday - February 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; John Austin, Daegon Brown, Larry Hopkins, Cody Townsend, Derrick Treadwell, Tyler Underwood, Cary Vinson, & Steven Whitehead.
Congratulations to our graduates; John Austin, Daegon Brown, Larry Hopkins, Cody Townsend, Derrick Treadwell, Tyler Underwood, Cary Vinson, & Steven Whitehead.
Reliable of the Month is Joshua Smith, congrats!
Client of the Month went to Donnie Dixon.
Testimony Tuesday: Steven Whitehead
Intake pic - 08/21/2019
Current pic - 02/10/2020
“I KNEW MONTHS IN ADVANCE I WAS COMING TO SAFE HARBOR, SO I HAD DECIDED TO START GETTING CLEAN THEN. SO THAT WHEN I ENTERED THE PROGRAM I HAD THAT BIG CHIP ON MY SHOULDER, THAT I DON'T NEED THIS BUT I GOT TO DO IT ANYWAYS. AT FIRST I WANTED TO LEAVE THEN I GOT TO START SPENDING TIME WITH MY WIFE AND KIDS, IT BECAME EASIER . I MADE FRIENDS AND STARTED TO RELAX, I STRUGGLED WITH MY EMOTIONS THE WAY NEWLY CLEAN ADDICTS DO. ONCE I STARTED ATTENDING CLASSES AND OPENING UP I REALIZED I NEEDED THIS. SAFE HARBOR IS ONLY GOING TO BE WHAT YOU MAKE IT, YOU CAN EITHER BREEZE THROUGH IT OR TAKE IT SERIOUS AND LEARN ALL YOU CAN. I TRIED TO LEARN ALL I COULD. I STILL FAILED TO GET ALL I NEEDED TO BE HONEST BUT THROUGH GOD AND SALVATION I HAVE LEARNED MORE THAN I EVER COULD'VE IMAGINED! I HAVE GAINED AND LOST SO MUCH HERE, I HAVE LAUGHED AND CRIED HERE, BUT MOST OF ALL I ENJOYED BEING HERE BECAUSE I KNOW IT IS PART OF GODS PLAN. WHO AM I TO ARGUE WITH THAT! SO TO ME SAFE HARBOR IS A PLACE TO MEET NEW FRIENDS, CLIENTS, AND GREAT STAFF. A PLACE TO LEARN WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT WE ARE MADE OF. A PLACE TO GET CLEAN, AND A PLACE TO FIND GOD! A PLACE TO LEARN YOUR PLACE IN LIFE, BUT JUST LIKE ANYWHERE ELSE ONLY IF YOU LET IT. FOR ME I WISH TO STAY CLEAN, LIVE MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST, GROW CLOSER TO MY FAMILY AND CONTINUE TO BE THE MAN GOD WANTS ME TO BE! I OWE IT ALL TO SAFE HARBOR AND MOST OF ALL GOD!”
Intake pic - 08/21/2019
Current pic - 02/10/2020
“I KNEW MONTHS IN ADVANCE I WAS COMING TO SAFE HARBOR, SO I HAD DECIDED TO START GETTING CLEAN THEN. SO THAT WHEN I ENTERED THE PROGRAM I HAD THAT BIG CHIP ON MY SHOULDER, THAT I DON'T NEED THIS BUT I GOT TO DO IT ANYWAYS. AT FIRST I WANTED TO LEAVE THEN I GOT TO START SPENDING TIME WITH MY WIFE AND KIDS, IT BECAME EASIER . I MADE FRIENDS AND STARTED TO RELAX, I STRUGGLED WITH MY EMOTIONS THE WAY NEWLY CLEAN ADDICTS DO. ONCE I STARTED ATTENDING CLASSES AND OPENING UP I REALIZED I NEEDED THIS. SAFE HARBOR IS ONLY GOING TO BE WHAT YOU MAKE IT, YOU CAN EITHER BREEZE THROUGH IT OR TAKE IT SERIOUS AND LEARN ALL YOU CAN. I TRIED TO LEARN ALL I COULD. I STILL FAILED TO GET ALL I NEEDED TO BE HONEST BUT THROUGH GOD AND SALVATION I HAVE LEARNED MORE THAN I EVER COULD'VE IMAGINED! I HAVE GAINED AND LOST SO MUCH HERE, I HAVE LAUGHED AND CRIED HERE, BUT MOST OF ALL I ENJOYED BEING HERE BECAUSE I KNOW IT IS PART OF GODS PLAN. WHO AM I TO ARGUE WITH THAT! SO TO ME SAFE HARBOR IS A PLACE TO MEET NEW FRIENDS, CLIENTS, AND GREAT STAFF. A PLACE TO LEARN WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT WE ARE MADE OF. A PLACE TO GET CLEAN, AND A PLACE TO FIND GOD! A PLACE TO LEARN YOUR PLACE IN LIFE, BUT JUST LIKE ANYWHERE ELSE ONLY IF YOU LET IT. FOR ME I WISH TO STAY CLEAN, LIVE MY LIFE TO THE FULLEST, GROW CLOSER TO MY FAMILY AND CONTINUE TO BE THE MAN GOD WANTS ME TO BE! I OWE IT ALL TO SAFE HARBOR AND MOST OF ALL GOD!”
Celebration Sunday - January 2020
Congratulations to our graduates; Derrick Treadwell, Christopher Rand, Ricky Hudson, Caleb Jackson, Earnest Castle, Chris Vestal, Bryan Minyard, Jonathan Flatt, Deangelo Johnson, Charles Walker, Ambres Payne, & Bradford Roberts.
Congratulations to our graduates; Derrick Treadwell, Christopher Rand, Ricky Hudson, Caleb Jackson, Earnest Castle, Chris Vestal, Bryan Minyard, Jonathan Flatt, Deangelo Johnson, Charles Walker, Ambres Payne, & Bradford Roberts.
Testimony Tuesday: Blake Stockdale
Intake pic - 7/30/2019
Current pic - 12/16/2019
“MY NAME IS BLAKE STOCKDALE, BEFORE SAFE HARBOR CAME INTO MY LIFE I WAS HEADING FOR DISASTER I WAS ONE OF THE TYPES OF PEOPLE THAT DIDN'T THINK I HAD A PROBLEM WITH DRUGS. I FINALLY CAME TO REALIZE THAT I HAD A PROBLEM SO WITH THE HELP OF FAMILY I FOUND SAFE HARBOR. WHEN I WAS ENTERED INTO THIS PROGRAM I DIDN'T EXPECT MUCH, PROGRESS OR CHANGE. I JUST HAD IT IN MY HEAD THAT I WOULD JUST COAST THROUGH THIS PROGRAM AND GET BACK TO MY NORMAL LIFE. I CAME IN JULY 30TH AFTER BEING HERE A COUPLE WEEKS I ALREADY STARTED LOOKING AT THINGS DIFFERENT, GOD GRABBED AHOLD OF ME AND CHANGED MY WHOLE OUTLOOK ON THINGS. I STARTED TO SEE WHAT KIND OF MAN I CAN BE WITHOUT SIN AND DRUGS IN MY LIFE. I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE NEW ME THE NEW MAN I BECAME. I'VE COME TO GROW CLOSER AND CLOSER TO GOD EACH AND EVERY DAY. I'VE STARTED TO CRAVE HIS PRESENCE MORE AND MORE EVERY DAY. I JUST FEEL LIKE A NEW MAN WITH A PURPOSE, A MAN TO STRIVE TO STAY ON HIS FEET AND A MAN NOT TO BREAK AND LET THE DEVIL IN NO MORE. I'VE BEEN HERE ALMOST FIVE MONTHS. I GRADUATE JANUARY 19TH 2020 I CAN HONESTLY SAY I'M SO VERY GRATEFUL AND THANKFUL FOR SAFE HARBOR. ESPECIALLY THE STAFF WHICH ARE SOME OF THE BEST PEOPLE I'VE EVER MET. SO I JUST WANNA SAY THANK YOU ALL FOR BEING THERE FOR ME AND ENCOURAGING ME THROUGH MY TIME IN THIS PROGRAM!”
Intake pic - 7/30/2019
Current pic - 12/16/2019
“MY NAME IS BLAKE STOCKDALE, BEFORE SAFE HARBOR CAME INTO MY LIFE I WAS HEADING FOR DISASTER I WAS ONE OF THE TYPES OF PEOPLE THAT DIDN'T THINK I HAD A PROBLEM WITH DRUGS. I FINALLY CAME TO REALIZE THAT I HAD A PROBLEM SO WITH THE HELP OF FAMILY I FOUND SAFE HARBOR. WHEN I WAS ENTERED INTO THIS PROGRAM I DIDN'T EXPECT MUCH, PROGRESS OR CHANGE. I JUST HAD IT IN MY HEAD THAT I WOULD JUST COAST THROUGH THIS PROGRAM AND GET BACK TO MY NORMAL LIFE. I CAME IN JULY 30TH AFTER BEING HERE A COUPLE WEEKS I ALREADY STARTED LOOKING AT THINGS DIFFERENT, GOD GRABBED AHOLD OF ME AND CHANGED MY WHOLE OUTLOOK ON THINGS. I STARTED TO SEE WHAT KIND OF MAN I CAN BE WITHOUT SIN AND DRUGS IN MY LIFE. I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE NEW ME THE NEW MAN I BECAME. I'VE COME TO GROW CLOSER AND CLOSER TO GOD EACH AND EVERY DAY. I'VE STARTED TO CRAVE HIS PRESENCE MORE AND MORE EVERY DAY. I JUST FEEL LIKE A NEW MAN WITH A PURPOSE, A MAN TO STRIVE TO STAY ON HIS FEET AND A MAN NOT TO BREAK AND LET THE DEVIL IN NO MORE. I'VE BEEN HERE ALMOST FIVE MONTHS. I GRADUATE JANUARY 19TH 2020 I CAN HONESTLY SAY I'M SO VERY GRATEFUL AND THANKFUL FOR SAFE HARBOR. ESPECIALLY THE STAFF WHICH ARE SOME OF THE BEST PEOPLE I'VE EVER MET. SO I JUST WANNA SAY THANK YOU ALL FOR BEING THERE FOR ME AND ENCOURAGING ME THROUGH MY TIME IN THIS PROGRAM!”
Celebration Sunday - December 2019
Congratulations to our graduates - Ryan Mills, Carl Petty, Shawn McCord, Christopher Farley, Daniel Tillman, Joseph Layman, Greg Cantrell, Adam Liles, Willie Dixon, & Derek Dunn!
Congratulations to our graduates - Ryan Mills, Carl Petty, Shawn McCord, Christopher Farley, Daniel Tillman, Joseph Layman, Greg Cantrell, Adam Liles, Willie Dixon, & Derek Dunn!
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort celebrated our thankfulness with not one, but two prepared Thanksgiving dinners. Bryan Stout, head chef, prepared an amazing meal on Thanksgiving that nearly toppled the trays.
Our friends in the Bucksnort area came out in force and cooked for our men here. There was turkeys, dressing, cranberry sauce, fudge pie, pecan pie, deviled eggs, and many more delicious home cooked foods. We are very thankful for the women of Sonoco across the street who took the time and resources to put a meal together for 100 men on Saturday afternoon. And there was leftovers!!
We are so thankful and blessed!
Our friends in the Bucksnort area came out in force and cooked for our men here. There was turkeys, dressing, cranberry sauce, fudge pie, pecan pie, deviled eggs, and many more delicious home cooked foods. We are very thankful for the women of Sonoco across the street who took the time and resources to put a meal together for 100 men on Saturday afternoon. And there was leftovers!!
We are so thankful and blessed!
Testimony Tuesday: Coty Sadler
Intake pic - 05/31/2019
Current pic - 11/12/2019
"Growing up was very confusing time for me. My childhood felt like a wild chain of events out of my control. It left me with thoughts and wonders about life and the world. Other kids around me didn’t seem to relate to my situation. I was left with all kinds of questions that without answers left me feeling alone and confused. I suffered from depression and wanted to feel a numbness. I turned to alcohol. I felt a euphoria in drug use that I hadn’t experienced before. As a teen it was, in my mind, just fun and what I thought of as good times. An escape from responsibility that quickly became habits ingrained in my daily life.
Through this very crucial time in my life at Safe Harbor, I have really strengthened my relationship with the Lord and have learned to let go of blame and forgive. I am able to break the chains of guilt and to build on a future without focusing on the past. Safe Harbor has been a blessing and much needed miracle in my life."
Intake pic - 05/31/2019
Current pic - 11/12/2019
"Growing up was very confusing time for me. My childhood felt like a wild chain of events out of my control. It left me with thoughts and wonders about life and the world. Other kids around me didn’t seem to relate to my situation. I was left with all kinds of questions that without answers left me feeling alone and confused. I suffered from depression and wanted to feel a numbness. I turned to alcohol. I felt a euphoria in drug use that I hadn’t experienced before. As a teen it was, in my mind, just fun and what I thought of as good times. An escape from responsibility that quickly became habits ingrained in my daily life.
Through this very crucial time in my life at Safe Harbor, I have really strengthened my relationship with the Lord and have learned to let go of blame and forgive. I am able to break the chains of guilt and to build on a future without focusing on the past. Safe Harbor has been a blessing and much needed miracle in my life."
Safe Harbor Bucksnort celebrated our clients hard work last night. Congrats!
Employee of the Month: Jeffrey Roberson
Client of the Month: Raymond Mallory
Dorm of the Month: Rms 108 & 109
John Austin / Blake Stockdale / Cary Vinson / Matthew Rodriguez / Ricky Hudson
Employee of the Month: Jeffrey Roberson
Client of the Month: Raymond Mallory
Dorm of the Month: Rms 108 & 109
John Austin / Blake Stockdale / Cary Vinson / Matthew Rodriguez / Ricky Hudson
Testimony Tuesday: Derrick Treadwell
Intake pic - 06/14/2019
Current pic - 11/12/2019
"When I first arrived at Safe Harbor I was broken. I lost everything that I loved. My kids and my wife were no longer in my life and I had nothing to blame but my addiction. Honestly, I though about leaving Safe Harbor a few times but I am really glad I didn’t.
This place is giving me a second chance to get my family back together and live a sober life. I can return to set a good example for my kids and be the father and husband I need to be. The life that I was living before was not the way I need to live.
Now, I’m 100 days clean and have better head on my shoulders. The help and support from the staff here is amazing. They truly do care about your recovery. I am going to take everything that I learned from here and put it to good use. I know I can get my family back by using these tools that Safe Harbor has provided for me."
Intake pic - 06/14/2019
Current pic - 11/12/2019
"When I first arrived at Safe Harbor I was broken. I lost everything that I loved. My kids and my wife were no longer in my life and I had nothing to blame but my addiction. Honestly, I though about leaving Safe Harbor a few times but I am really glad I didn’t.
This place is giving me a second chance to get my family back together and live a sober life. I can return to set a good example for my kids and be the father and husband I need to be. The life that I was living before was not the way I need to live.
Now, I’m 100 days clean and have better head on my shoulders. The help and support from the staff here is amazing. They truly do care about your recovery. I am going to take everything that I learned from here and put it to good use. I know I can get my family back by using these tools that Safe Harbor has provided for me."
Celebration Sunday - November 2019
Congrats to our graduates - Joshua Robbins, Coty Sadler, Nathan Culbertson, & Dennis Luttrell
Congrats to our graduates - Joshua Robbins, Coty Sadler, Nathan Culbertson, & Dennis Luttrell
November 2019 Employee Spotlight - Chaplain, Robert Skelf
Date of Hire: 11/08/2017
"Our Chaplain, Robert Skelf, is a true man of God. Bringing experience in faith and counseling, Chaplain Skelf is an example of compassion and Godly love. His role at Safe Harbor of Bucksnort has him counseling, teaching, and pastoring the men who reside at our facility. Originally, Chaplain Skelf worked at our Nashville location before transferring to Bucksnort. His role in the daily lives of these men is crucial to spiritual and mental health as they battle the chains of addiction." - Director, Jonathan Newcomb
What is your reason for working with Safe Harbor?
"Romans 12:2
I first experienced addiction while working at a Methadone Clinic earlier in my life. God started preparing me for a life in ministry after seeing the struggle of so many during my time there at the Methadone clinic. From there God had a different plan and I then served as correction officer at Trousdale. I worked as a Program Coordinator at Safe Harbor before God called me to be a Chaplain in Safe Harbor Bucksnort." - RS
Date of Hire: 11/08/2017
"Our Chaplain, Robert Skelf, is a true man of God. Bringing experience in faith and counseling, Chaplain Skelf is an example of compassion and Godly love. His role at Safe Harbor of Bucksnort has him counseling, teaching, and pastoring the men who reside at our facility. Originally, Chaplain Skelf worked at our Nashville location before transferring to Bucksnort. His role in the daily lives of these men is crucial to spiritual and mental health as they battle the chains of addiction." - Director, Jonathan Newcomb
What is your reason for working with Safe Harbor?
"Romans 12:2
I first experienced addiction while working at a Methadone Clinic earlier in my life. God started preparing me for a life in ministry after seeing the struggle of so many during my time there at the Methadone clinic. From there God had a different plan and I then served as correction officer at Trousdale. I worked as a Program Coordinator at Safe Harbor before God called me to be a Chaplain in Safe Harbor Bucksnort." - RS
Testimony Tuesday: Adam Liles
Intake Pic - 06/26/2019
Current Pic - 10/21/2019
"My drug use started at a young age, around 15. I began by smoking marijuana but quickly progressed to other drugs I was able to find from older kids at parties. As I got a little older I needed 2 teeth cut out by an orthodontist and was prescribed pain medication. This is where my true problem began. The women I was in a relationship was dealing with pain medication treatment at the time but I had no idea a simple prescription would lead me down a similar path into addiction. I’ve seen how quickly drug addiction can devastate your life.
In 2016 I was still fighting addiction when I began to abuse Xanax. I would drink heavily while using and my addiction eventually led me into financial problems. In order to pay for my continued use I attempted to steal from my neighbors. I found myself in jail with multiple felonies pending. For 3 years of my life I rarely got a peak at the sun.
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort is good and while I’m not making what I once did I’m happy most the time. I’ve known for a long time happiness is based on perspective. What you put in is what you get out. Life is all about attitude and perseverance. The people I know here have strong faith and work hard every day.
My plan is to finish what is in front me and move on in life. To be successful and free from addiction. I’ve always been truly blessed but often ignored the blessings I’ve received. Going forward I will focus on the blessings given to me and give honor to God. – AMEN"
Intake Pic - 06/26/2019
Current Pic - 10/21/2019
"My drug use started at a young age, around 15. I began by smoking marijuana but quickly progressed to other drugs I was able to find from older kids at parties. As I got a little older I needed 2 teeth cut out by an orthodontist and was prescribed pain medication. This is where my true problem began. The women I was in a relationship was dealing with pain medication treatment at the time but I had no idea a simple prescription would lead me down a similar path into addiction. I’ve seen how quickly drug addiction can devastate your life.
In 2016 I was still fighting addiction when I began to abuse Xanax. I would drink heavily while using and my addiction eventually led me into financial problems. In order to pay for my continued use I attempted to steal from my neighbors. I found myself in jail with multiple felonies pending. For 3 years of my life I rarely got a peak at the sun.
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort is good and while I’m not making what I once did I’m happy most the time. I’ve known for a long time happiness is based on perspective. What you put in is what you get out. Life is all about attitude and perseverance. The people I know here have strong faith and work hard every day.
My plan is to finish what is in front me and move on in life. To be successful and free from addiction. I’ve always been truly blessed but often ignored the blessings I’ve received. Going forward I will focus on the blessings given to me and give honor to God. – AMEN"
2019 Fall Festival at Bucksnort was a huge success! We are already looking forward to next year and defending our title of the Kickball Game Champs
Fall Revival 2019
Testimony Tuesday: Jessie Staggs
Intake pic - 08/16/2019
Current pic - 10/8/2019
“Growing up in Laurenceburg, Tn I started using at a young age, around 14. I had moved out of my house and felt abandoned, ending up living with a friend. I’d seen my father use and being in and out of incarceration for drug use. Later on in life I would become co-users with my father. Allowing me to justify my actions into worsening addiction. Going through High School I worked for a bread delivery company and worked hard as I have most of my life. Once I’d graduated I went to training for my ASE Mechanics license and enrolled in college graduating with my Contractor License.
Using my Contractor License I began working for a state park. My use began to develop into more of a habit and I was charged with 2 misdemeanors; Promotion of Methamphetamines and Possession of a Schedule 4 Substance. I was placed on 11 months 29 days probation and unfortunately lost my job working for the state park.
Once this happened I began working as a contractor following tornados and hurricanes, repairing houses and commercial properties for a living. I loved the work but the continued travel and long hours had a heavy affect on my use. Over the last year my Meth use went to a whole new level and I began using intravenously.
It began to affect my home life. My three handsome boys were taken from me when I was found to be at home when I had an order barring me from being near them. They are staying with my mother in-law and hope that once I graduate I’ll be able to start the process of regaining custody of them.
Looking towards the future I hope to use my graduation money to reinstate my license and expunge my record. Leaving here to start working in a new occupation possibly teaching the skills I’ve learned throughout my life in construction and mechanic work. I’ve never been real big on God because growing up it wasn’t often talked about but in this program I have come to have a better understanding of God. I know for a fact that this program works if you want it.”
Intake pic - 08/16/2019
Current pic - 10/8/2019
“Growing up in Laurenceburg, Tn I started using at a young age, around 14. I had moved out of my house and felt abandoned, ending up living with a friend. I’d seen my father use and being in and out of incarceration for drug use. Later on in life I would become co-users with my father. Allowing me to justify my actions into worsening addiction. Going through High School I worked for a bread delivery company and worked hard as I have most of my life. Once I’d graduated I went to training for my ASE Mechanics license and enrolled in college graduating with my Contractor License.
Using my Contractor License I began working for a state park. My use began to develop into more of a habit and I was charged with 2 misdemeanors; Promotion of Methamphetamines and Possession of a Schedule 4 Substance. I was placed on 11 months 29 days probation and unfortunately lost my job working for the state park.
Once this happened I began working as a contractor following tornados and hurricanes, repairing houses and commercial properties for a living. I loved the work but the continued travel and long hours had a heavy affect on my use. Over the last year my Meth use went to a whole new level and I began using intravenously.
It began to affect my home life. My three handsome boys were taken from me when I was found to be at home when I had an order barring me from being near them. They are staying with my mother in-law and hope that once I graduate I’ll be able to start the process of regaining custody of them.
Looking towards the future I hope to use my graduation money to reinstate my license and expunge my record. Leaving here to start working in a new occupation possibly teaching the skills I’ve learned throughout my life in construction and mechanic work. I’ve never been real big on God because growing up it wasn’t often talked about but in this program I have come to have a better understanding of God. I know for a fact that this program works if you want it.”
We are grateful for the support we receive from you all throughout the year and feel blessed to count you among our friends. Your attendance at special events, volunteer efforts, and both monetary and in-kind donations keep Safe Harbor of Bucksnort going strong and allow us to continue offering our services to our communities.
As you know, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations such as ourselves rely heavily on community support year-round. We are hoping you can help us check off some items from our wish list: The items on our list would be a great blessing to receive.
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RVSLOPVMG0KI?ref_=wl_share
And please remember whenever you take advantage of the great deals on Amazon.com, you can support Safe Harbor of Bucksnort with your purchases! By clicking on the following link and designating Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc as your charitable organization, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Safe Harbor: smile.amazon.com/ch/58-1710683. Just remember to always shop from smile.amazon.com.
Our shipping address is 5032 Hwy 230W Only, TN 37140
Thank you for your continued support, from all of us at Safe Harbor!
As you know, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations such as ourselves rely heavily on community support year-round. We are hoping you can help us check off some items from our wish list: The items on our list would be a great blessing to receive.
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RVSLOPVMG0KI?ref_=wl_share
And please remember whenever you take advantage of the great deals on Amazon.com, you can support Safe Harbor of Bucksnort with your purchases! By clicking on the following link and designating Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc as your charitable organization, Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Safe Harbor: smile.amazon.com/ch/58-1710683. Just remember to always shop from smile.amazon.com.
Our shipping address is 5032 Hwy 230W Only, TN 37140
Thank you for your continued support, from all of us at Safe Harbor!
09/24/2019 Testimony Tuesday: Robert Long
Intake pic - 02/25/2019
Current pic - 09/24/2019
When I first entered Safe Harbor I was a broken person. I was envious of everyone that had a family that supported them because I never really had that support in my life.
I've lived a life full of regret, sorrow, and pain. I was never truly close with God, I believed in Him but never felt in my heart.
Now that I've been in the program for 8 months, I've learned a lot and it has made me realize that what I was doing in my addiction was wrong. I've gotten closer to God more than ever. I have met a lot of great people along the way and appreciate every one of the them for helping me along my journey.
I want to thank the staff here for being compassionate towards me as I have gone through family hardships. I've had a few setbacks that almost broke my spirit but I'm a stronger man because of it. I guess it wasn't truly my time to go but no I'm sure that I'm ready to go back into the real world.
I thank God for sending me here. It wasn't easy but I wouldn't change it for the world. Thank all of y'all for being here for me.
Intake pic - 02/25/2019
Current pic - 09/24/2019
When I first entered Safe Harbor I was a broken person. I was envious of everyone that had a family that supported them because I never really had that support in my life.
I've lived a life full of regret, sorrow, and pain. I was never truly close with God, I believed in Him but never felt in my heart.
Now that I've been in the program for 8 months, I've learned a lot and it has made me realize that what I was doing in my addiction was wrong. I've gotten closer to God more than ever. I have met a lot of great people along the way and appreciate every one of the them for helping me along my journey.
I want to thank the staff here for being compassionate towards me as I have gone through family hardships. I've had a few setbacks that almost broke my spirit but I'm a stronger man because of it. I guess it wasn't truly my time to go but no I'm sure that I'm ready to go back into the real world.
I thank God for sending me here. It wasn't easy but I wouldn't change it for the world. Thank all of y'all for being here for me.
Celebration Sunday - September 2019
Congratulations to our graduates Bobby Street, Zackary Patterson, Ronald Lewis, Wesley Smith, Brandon Thompson, & William Harris!
Congratulations to our graduates Bobby Street, Zackary Patterson, Ronald Lewis, Wesley Smith, Brandon Thompson, & William Harris!
9/10/2019 Testimony Tuesday: Zachary Patterson
Intake pic - 03/27/2019
Current pic - 09/06/2019
"By March I had been arrested for the third time this year. I was living out of my car, no longer had a job, and was addicted to multiple drugs. One more arrest or charge, I wouldn't have been able to slide by without jail time. At this point I knew I needed a change. With the help of friends and family I heard about Safe Harbor.
Initially the six months scared me to death but being able to work and save money while in the program was enough for me to give it a shot. It has been the best decision I have ever made for myself. Now, a little over five months clean and on track to graduate in two weeks, I have cleaned up in so many ways. I am back working out regularly, my relationships with those who mean the world to me are healing, and I have saved some money to get me back on my feet when I exit the program in a few short weeks.
For the first time in years I am beyond proud of myself. I have met so many great people in the program and it has been an experience I will never forget. Thank you Safe Harbor for providing me with this opportunity to turn my life around. I also want to thank the staff at Safe Harbor for what they do everyday. I know it is no small feat and each of them has helped me in some way. We couldn't do this without ya'll!! - Zachary Patterson"
Intake pic - 03/27/2019
Current pic - 09/06/2019
"By March I had been arrested for the third time this year. I was living out of my car, no longer had a job, and was addicted to multiple drugs. One more arrest or charge, I wouldn't have been able to slide by without jail time. At this point I knew I needed a change. With the help of friends and family I heard about Safe Harbor.
Initially the six months scared me to death but being able to work and save money while in the program was enough for me to give it a shot. It has been the best decision I have ever made for myself. Now, a little over five months clean and on track to graduate in two weeks, I have cleaned up in so many ways. I am back working out regularly, my relationships with those who mean the world to me are healing, and I have saved some money to get me back on my feet when I exit the program in a few short weeks.
For the first time in years I am beyond proud of myself. I have met so many great people in the program and it has been an experience I will never forget. Thank you Safe Harbor for providing me with this opportunity to turn my life around. I also want to thank the staff at Safe Harbor for what they do everyday. I know it is no small feat and each of them has helped me in some way. We couldn't do this without ya'll!! - Zachary Patterson"
Baptism Sunday was a huge success!
We are very proud of these men who decided to show a public acceptance of Christ! Joshua Robbins, Willie Dixon, Steven Whitehead with Wife Mrs. Whitehead, Brandon Cherry, and Cody Townsend.
We are very proud of these men who decided to show a public acceptance of Christ! Joshua Robbins, Willie Dixon, Steven Whitehead with Wife Mrs. Whitehead, Brandon Cherry, and Cody Townsend.
Testimony Tuesday - Joshua Smith - August 27, 2019
Intake pic - Jan 20, 2019
Current pic - August 11, 2019
“God and I weren't always on the best of terms, almost my entire life I've been lost and have felt hopeless. I pretty much just gave up on life and caring about anything. I taught myself bad habits and was in and out of jail since I was 15 years old. I never thought, out of all the people, I would ever change. Eight months ago, January 20th 2019 I walked into Safe Harbor . I worked the program and I graduated it July 20th! My whole life has done a 180. I'm just here to say if I can do this anybody can. Safe Harbor changed my life for the better and I will forever be grateful."
Intake pic - Jan 20, 2019
Current pic - August 11, 2019
“God and I weren't always on the best of terms, almost my entire life I've been lost and have felt hopeless. I pretty much just gave up on life and caring about anything. I taught myself bad habits and was in and out of jail since I was 15 years old. I never thought, out of all the people, I would ever change. Eight months ago, January 20th 2019 I walked into Safe Harbor . I worked the program and I graduated it July 20th! My whole life has done a 180. I'm just here to say if I can do this anybody can. Safe Harbor changed my life for the better and I will forever be grateful."
Testimony Tuesday - August 20, 2019: Wesley Smith
Intake pic - 03/27/2019
Current pic - 08/20/2019
“After violating my probation I was arrested and put in jail. I was released from Jail on March 27 with a year long furlough and arrived at the Nashville location. Having spent the last 4 moths there I was ready for a change. My wife had given up on me and my relationship with my daughter was nearly non-existent. I was continuing to struggle with opioids and meth and was in and out of doctors while living on the streets. In my heart I knew there was something not right. I had little to do with my daughter couldn’t keep a job with my painkiller addiction. Six or seven treatment centers had tried to help me but were unsuccessful. I have always had a relationship with God but often times I cried out when I was in need and in the good times felt I didn’t need help.
The facility is nice but what really makes SHB great is the caring staff. It’s very important. They really care a lot here and that means a lot. Nashville facility was closing and I was to be transferred to Bucksnort. I was amazed at the place here. It’s really green and everything is nice. I spend most of my time here working out and coaching others for living a healthy life. I have never had such success and feel I no longer want to be part of that lifestyle. It’s a God thing. I’ve changed so much, It’s unreal. This is the first time I feel I’ve truly got it. The structure here is solid. I find there are a lot of things to occupy my mind.
It’s been 5 months since my last use and everything feels so weird but great now that I am sober. I am thankful for Safe Harbor Bucksnort and find the facility top notch. The staff care and the classes that are taught make me feel the teachers really know what they are talking about and aren’t just reading off a lesson they printed from the internet. I feel they care and that the stuff they talk about they understand and can help. The future is uncertain for me but I want to get into the personal trainer/health field to help others do what I am passionate about.
If it works for me, it can work for anyone. I was the worst person I know and I’ve been able to change. God has forgiven me. That wasn’t me. I was not the same person on drugs as I am sober. I now know the consequences of doing wrong. I’m healthy and I’m doing what I am supposed to do. I am not gonna let a little line cause me to fail."
Intake pic - 03/27/2019
Current pic - 08/20/2019
“After violating my probation I was arrested and put in jail. I was released from Jail on March 27 with a year long furlough and arrived at the Nashville location. Having spent the last 4 moths there I was ready for a change. My wife had given up on me and my relationship with my daughter was nearly non-existent. I was continuing to struggle with opioids and meth and was in and out of doctors while living on the streets. In my heart I knew there was something not right. I had little to do with my daughter couldn’t keep a job with my painkiller addiction. Six or seven treatment centers had tried to help me but were unsuccessful. I have always had a relationship with God but often times I cried out when I was in need and in the good times felt I didn’t need help.
The facility is nice but what really makes SHB great is the caring staff. It’s very important. They really care a lot here and that means a lot. Nashville facility was closing and I was to be transferred to Bucksnort. I was amazed at the place here. It’s really green and everything is nice. I spend most of my time here working out and coaching others for living a healthy life. I have never had such success and feel I no longer want to be part of that lifestyle. It’s a God thing. I’ve changed so much, It’s unreal. This is the first time I feel I’ve truly got it. The structure here is solid. I find there are a lot of things to occupy my mind.
It’s been 5 months since my last use and everything feels so weird but great now that I am sober. I am thankful for Safe Harbor Bucksnort and find the facility top notch. The staff care and the classes that are taught make me feel the teachers really know what they are talking about and aren’t just reading off a lesson they printed from the internet. I feel they care and that the stuff they talk about they understand and can help. The future is uncertain for me but I want to get into the personal trainer/health field to help others do what I am passionate about.
If it works for me, it can work for anyone. I was the worst person I know and I’ve been able to change. God has forgiven me. That wasn’t me. I was not the same person on drugs as I am sober. I now know the consequences of doing wrong. I’m healthy and I’m doing what I am supposed to do. I am not gonna let a little line cause me to fail."
Celebration Sunday - August 2019
Congratulations to our Graduates - Noah Benson, Justin Anderson, Charlie Nichols, Jamarlon Askins, Gregory Eady, Donnie Nicholson, Carlos Edmondson, & Ricky Ward!
Congratulations to our Graduates - Noah Benson, Justin Anderson, Charlie Nichols, Jamarlon Askins, Gregory Eady, Donnie Nicholson, Carlos Edmondson, & Ricky Ward!
Our Dorm of the Month (Justin Anderson, Gregory Eady, Shawn McCord) had a fantastic time at Nashville Shores Water Park this past weekend! Accompanying them was our Afternoon Coordinator, Lance Newcomb
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort is excited and proud of our 12 men who decided to show a public display of faith through Baptism this weekend! The local creek was the perfect place to get closer to beautiful nature God has created.
Fried Chicken and Bingo! Saturday was an eventful day. After Baptism the men returned and the facility celebrated with fried chicken, cole slaw and potato salad. Excellent job by our kitchen team led by Brian Stout!
We are very proud of Christopher Somerville here in Bucksnort. Chris was awarded Bucksnort Employee of the Quarter. The opening of Bucksnort would not have happened in the time it did without his efforts; moving furniture, putting beds together, doing intakes and transfers, cleaning, and so much more. We are honored to have him on the team and look forward to working together for many years to come. Congrats Chris!!
Celebration Sunday - July 2019
Congrats to all of our graduates! 12 Total! Trenton Jones, Jacob Fowler, James Olvera, Joshua Slate, Joshua Smith, Robert Gipson, Anthony Talley, Michael McKissack, Dana Lewis, Lance Westgate, Cedric Hopkins, Timothy Kilgore
Congrats to all of our graduates! 12 Total! Trenton Jones, Jacob Fowler, James Olvera, Joshua Slate, Joshua Smith, Robert Gipson, Anthony Talley, Michael McKissack, Dana Lewis, Lance Westgate, Cedric Hopkins, Timothy Kilgore
Amazon Shoppers!! You can make a difference while you shop Amazon Prime Day deals on July 15 & 16. Simply shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/58-1710683 and AmazonSmile donates to Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc.
Our 2nd Quarter Newsletter! Not getting our newsletter? We can fix that! Just send us a message with your email and request to be put on the newsletter list.
https://conta.cc/2J1uPCe
https://conta.cc/2J1uPCe
Bucksnort’s new transportation van! Blessed!
“For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue." - James A. Garfield
Happy Memorial Day from Safe Harbor!
Happy Memorial Day from Safe Harbor!
We want to thank Bates Rubber for all of their support of Safe Harbor. The clients had a great time at their May Day Appreciation Cookout!
Congratulations to Brian Latore on being the Reliable of the Month for Bucksnort!
Easter Service
The first week of the Safe Harbor Re-Boot Program brought in a check for $500.00, 96 pair of safety glasses and 600 pair of ear plugs!!
Thank you to all the donors that donated!
Thank you to all the donors that donated!
Help to Re-Boot Safe Harbor!
You can purchase items on Amazon and ship them directly! Remember to shop at smile.amazon.com to help Safe Harbor even more! Be sure to choose Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc to as the ones who receives your support!
Thank you for your continued support!
You can purchase items on Amazon and ship them directly! Remember to shop at smile.amazon.com to help Safe Harbor even more! Be sure to choose Lighthouse Mission Ministries, Inc to as the ones who receives your support!
Thank you for your continued support!
Starting Wednesday morning off right!
Moving in takes Team Work!
The clients here at Safe Harbor are working hard to keep their property looking beautiful! Great job gentleman!
First meeting in our new chapel in Bucksnort!
Safe Harbor of Bucksnort welcomes the guys transferring from Erin.
Bucksnort now servicing A.L.P Lighting, Nemak, Loretta Lynn’s, Bates, Mid Tn. Lumber, Waverly Wood and more. Welcome Guys!
Bucksnort now servicing A.L.P Lighting, Nemak, Loretta Lynn’s, Bates, Mid Tn. Lumber, Waverly Wood and more. Welcome Guys!
Bucksnort Facilities
