David had finally hit rock bottom, going from underage drinking to serving prison time. But God hadn’t given up on him.

Alone in his cell one night, Mark Downs wondered if anyone cared whether he lived or died.

The answer eventually came through a dedicated Prison Fellowship Bible study leader, who showed Mark through Scripture that Jesus loved him and would always be with him.

Of the 23 million veterans in the United States today, an estimated 140,000 are in prison or jail. And many veterans—imprisoned or not—are unaware of the help available to them.

Did you know, for example, that in recent years, Congress has expanded many benefits for veterans, including disability, pensions, and health care, while easing eligibility requirements?

Ever wonder if your efforts as a volunteer really make a difference? Bruce Hood’s story should remove all doubt.

“Volunteering for Prison Fellowship brings love and encouragement to people sitting in dark jail and prison cells,” says Pastor Bruce Hood of Fresno, California.