Turning Pain Into Purpose: A Formerly Homeless Man’s Mission to Help Others
In Akron, Ohio, the struggle with homelessness is a stark reality for many. As of late January 2024, 690 individuals in Summit County were reported to be experiencing homelessness, reflecting a concerning 56% increase since the 2022 count. Among them was Mathew Seifert, a man who knows this struggle all too well. After enduring 12 years of homelessness, Seifert is now a beacon of hope for others, channeling his past experiences into helping those still caught in the shadows of despair.
Seifert’s journey into homelessness began with a downward spiral fueled by addiction. “I got so far into the darkness and homelessness, I never thought that I could ever see light again,” he recalls. His life changed dramatically when an epiphany struck during a moment of crisis. “I had an epiphany where I didn’t want to live like this anymore,” he said. Ironically, this revelation coincided with an arrest that ultimately set him on a new path. After serving time, Seifert began to rebuild his life, and it was during this transition that he encountered Hope Farm, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding the unhoused.
Founded by Georgann Mirgliotta, Hope Farm has become a lifeline for many in the Akron area, providing free lunches and essential resources to those experiencing homelessness. Mirgliotta first met Seifert several years ago, and today, she continues to offer the same support that once helped him find his footing. “Here we’re working in a direction with other organizations to try to help them get to the services they need,” she explained.
Seifert’s transformation is not just personal; it’s also communal. While he once stood in line for meals, he now helps prepare the very lunches he once received. Hope Farm has seen a significant increase in demand, evolving from serving 45 meals a week to approximately 120. Volunteers, many of whom are former clients, embody the spirit of giving back, proving that recovery and redemption are possible.
“It’s not the life for anybody. Nobody should be out here,” Seifert asserts as he reflects on the circumstances that can lead individuals to become unsheltered. Contributing factors such as lack of affordable housing, addiction, and mental illness play significant roles in this crisis. Seifert emphasizes that those experiencing homelessness often struggle to see a way out, yet he serves as a living testament to the idea that transformation is possible. “There’s a light in the beacon for all of us to get out of this, and it’s in their timing,” he says.
Now, almost two years sober and stable, Seifert actively collaborates with organizations like Continuum of Care and Community Support Services. His insight into the unsheltered community is invaluable, as he offers a unique perspective shaped by his lived experiences. He engages not only as a volunteer but also as an advocate, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the underlying issues that lead to homelessness.
The work done by Hope Farm and similar organizations is crucial in bridging the gap between desperation and hope. They provide not just meals, but also vital resources and connections to additional services that can help individuals reclaim their lives. For those who wish to contribute, Hope Farm operates primarily on donations, and they welcome support from the community.
If you or someone you know is struggling with homelessness, resources like Hope Farm, Continuum of Care, and Community Support Services can offer essential assistance. There’s no doubt that the road to recovery can be long and challenging, but as Mathew Seifert’s story illustrates, with the right support and determination, brighter days are indeed possible.
For more information about how to donate or get involved with Hope Farm, visit their website. Together, we can shine a light on homelessness and help turn the tide for those in need.
Sources: