from the Colorado Department of Health & Environment, more than 530 deaths resulted from heroin or opioid overdoses. In response, organizations like the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention are expanding resources to assist people in addiction treatment, to administer naloxone, and to facilitate communication between law enforcement, government officials, drug rehab centers and sober living communities.
In her career, Vyzourek estimates she has helped approximately 2,000 men and women with substance use disorders. The American Red Cross of Southeastern Colorado recently recognized her efforts with a Hometown Hero community service award.
“It’s given this women’s ministry more exposure,” she said. “People are knowing what we’re doing and it gives validity to what we’re doing. I’ve ministered in Colorado Springs for 23 years and I feel like I’m finally getting recognized. It’s a very selfless effort. I’ve put forth many times, I’m not getting paid. I do it because I’m called by God and He provides for my needs.”
Although women stay at Gospel Homes for no more than six months, most of them have started over with new lives. Vyzourek remembered one woman who reached out to Gospel Homes a year and a half ago and has since gotten her driver’s license, a job, and is raising her daughter.
“She’s sober,” she said. “Every time I see her she’s got a smile on her face. She’s just doing the right thing that she needs to do. She finally had enough with drugs.”
To supplement its foundational Biblical teachings, Gospel Homes hopes to soon introduce a line of educational courses centered around cooking, financial management, relapse prevention and more.
