JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- After leaving his group home two years ago, 24 year-old Christopher Stockman was introduced to the Salvation Army. It was there where his voice was finally heard.
"I came here and I was the only deaf person and I had issues communicating. I was very frustrated and had lots of emotional problems. I searched for help and I was able to come here," said Stockman, through an interpreter.
While living at the Salvation Army shelter, Stockman attended computer repair classes. But finding a job became a struggle until he was given the chance to work as a bell ringer during the holidays.
"It helped me learn about having a job," said Stockman.
Stockman credits the Salvation Army with turning his life around. Those who have met him would say he did the same for them.
"Chris has really introduced me to the Salvation Army. I would've never gotten here unless he was here. He has just been a great asset to all of us we love having him here," said Deidra Simon, an interpreter for the deaf.
Stockman now has his own apartment and works at a local car wash. He still volunteers at the Salvation Army, whether it be at the shelter or as a bell ringer. He says it's one of the ways he can give back to the organization that helped him get back on his feet.
