Dick and Jane at 59

Written by: Joan Millar, EECM Board Member and long-time volunteer

I drive Meals on Wheels for EECM and have done so for a number of years. Still I am always amazed and surprised at the scope of the ministry. The story my visitor told me the other day adds another dimension to EECM's concern for the people of the East End.

He was from Bridge Housing, one of EECM's housing programs for homeless men. As we drove along, we talked about this and that and soon discovered neither of us was a native Pittsburgher, I from the Midwest, he from elsewhere in the state. A bit later, after we were comfortable with each other, he began telling me the story of his life and his experience with EECM.

"I'm 59 years old and been on drugs most of my life. I been in and out of rehab a lot. It's hard. You have to have faith and believe you can do it. The most important thing is to stay away from those old friends. I got new friends here. I been clean for two years now."

We were quiet for a while and then he continued his story.

"You know, I don't read that good. I really never learned how. But I'm learning now. EECM told me about that place where they teach you to read. Some kind of a ‘council.’ I don't remember the name.* I go there two hours twice a week. I been struggling to learn. But you know what? The other day I went to the library and asked if they had any Dick and Jane books. The lady got me one and I sat down and I could read the whole book! I was so excited! I knew every word. I'm so happy!"

Imagine a 59 year old man having gained the courage and self esteem to go to the library and ask for a Dick and Jane book. His story blew me away!

* The Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council