This is one of a series of stories about the nonprofit agencies that receive money from The Gazette/El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund campaign that runs through the holidays.

Jim, 57, describes the last few years as “difficult times.”

It started when he injured his back and could no longer do construction work. He lost his house, and his wife, who had immigration problems returned to the Philippines. He drank too much and ended up in jail after two felonies for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. He wasn’t charged with auto theft because, he says, “I borrowed fast cars, but gave them back.”

In 2013, after serving time he went job hunting, sending out more than 70 applications, and pounding the pavement. “I have had good jobs in my life, and some college in computers, business and paralegal, but was out of ideas,” said Jim, who asked that his last name not be used to protect his privacy.

A counselor at Homeward Pikes Peak, which is providing transitional housing, referred him to Ecumenical Social Ministries. Founded by downtown churches, ESM teaches job search skills as part of its mission to provide a variety of social services to low income, homeless and unemployed. Jim’s volunteer counselor has made all the difference.

“I was really down, she asked me what makes me special. Wow, I needed that.”

She coached him on how to overcome barriers to employment. He received work clothing, medications, bus passes and job referrals from ESM.

He was hired part time by a hotel to handle banquet setups. After 8 months, he received more hours but to make ends meet, he also worked for a handyman service.

Along with working the three jobs, he took classes at a Bible college.

He says he recently left the hotel job in good standing. He now works at the handyman service and an auto detail shop part time. “I like to work with my hands,” he explained.

ESM is helping him with a plan to get a single full time job with benefits.

“I’m thankful. My ESM counselor got me through the hard times, and is helping me heal.”