Rahim’s story: “I couldn’t go anywhere else.”

January 6, 2025

When Rahim talks about his past, he can share all the details if you want to hear them. Tangles with authority, getting banned from every shelter in San Francisco, estranged from family and the good man he knew was still somewhere inside him…  It’s a litany of frustration, confusion and anger familiar to many struggling with addiction.

“My soul was sad,” he comments, recounting those days.

Rahim recognized the harmful attitudes and behaviors that were keeping him from a better life, but on his own, he couldn’t seem to make the changes and choices he knew he needed. Then, after years of closed doors, Rahid came to St. Anthony’s for help.

A year into his recovery journey now, he sees a different man, one with purpose and pride and a belief that “…things get better when people believe in you.”

Rahim starts his day early. He’s on the job at St. Anthony’s by 6:00 a.m. as a Kitchen Assistant in the renowned Dining Room that feeds hundreds daily in the San Francisco Tenderloin. He sees himself in the guests’ eyes and it’s always humbling. “Like me, some people couldn’t go anywhere else. But at St. Anthony’s, everyone is welcome and there’s no judgment,” he says.

Building a new life starts with the basics for Rahim and many other guests pursuing a path to stability. In addition to finding food, clothing and shelter at St. Anthony’s, Rahim was amazed to find personalized help at the Resource Center, located in the same building as so many other health, work and tech services offered to guests. His personal case manager helped him source his birth certificate, apply for a new I.D. and get his social security card—all critical for the gainful employment he was determined to find.

From there, Rahim connected with job coaches and attended classes that helped him develop the professional attitude and skills his coworkers expect.

When I show up for work at the Dining Room, I ask myself, ‘What can I bring to the team?’ My behavior affects everyone else, so I try and bring good energy and leave whatever else it is I’m dealing with for later. I’m learning how to respond to situations in a healthier way and that’s new for me. It’s powerful.

That mindset of teaming up for the greater good is central to Rahim’s residential recovery program at the Father Alfred Center where a dedicated “companion” with lived experience provides guidance and support for up to three years. Rahim and his companion Eric touch base every day. Rahim might not like every suggestion Eric offers, but says he usually hears what he needs to hear for navigating even the most difficult days.

The Franciscan tradition calls for extending a hand to those in need, and the community of donors supporting Rahim’s success plays a vital role in his ongoing growth in sobriety, wellness and workplace success. Because St. Anthony’s is primarily funded by private donors, we have the autonomy to create and implement innovative programs that directly address today’s most urgent challenges. Our Free Clothing Program and the Hygiene Hub didn’t have long gestation periods—we didn’t have time. But our flexibility in program design allows us to respond quickly, test new ideas, and prioritize impact over bureaucracy as we strive to meet the evolving needs of our community. As we approach our 75^th year of service to San Franciscans, extending and expanding these vital programs will continue.

From warm food in the Dining Room to a flu shot in our Medical Clinic, St. Anthony’s seamless, one-stop-shop makes it easier for guests to access the essential support they need to stabilize and rebuild their lives.

Breaking the cycle of addiction, poverty and homelessness is a tall order. People are complicated. The system is complicated. And no one knows better than Rahim how hard it is to leave the past behind and embrace an uncertain road ahead.

But he also knows that he doesn’t walk alone. His journey includes all the staff, volunteers, partners and supporters who see a brighter day ahead, even if he doesn’t quite see it that way just yet. 

“I understand my assignment,” he says. “I’m here to help myself and help others by being of service; it’s really that simple.

I burned all my bridges. But today I have somewhere to go. Somewhere I can contribute while I learn to live a healthy, productive life. All the help you need is right at St. Anthony’s. Their door is always open. All you have to do is walk through.

Your support ensures that we remain an anchor in the Tenderloin, fostering community and belonging for those in need. Please help us continue uplifting San Franciscans by making a donation today.