Peniel Recovery Ministries’ Recovery Center groundbreaking ceremony in Vienna

VIENNA, Ga. – Leaders from Crisp and Dooly counties came out to Vienna Friday morning to break ground on a new center geared towards recovery from substance abuse….Something the ministry’s founder says is needed in every county.

The Peniel Recovery Ministries was founded by Reverend Clay Johnson, who himself has struggled with substance abuse.

And, as he tells us, he wants to use faith to try and help pay it forward and help someone else who might be struggling.

“Being the Celebrate Recovery Pastor, I’m always getting phone calls about ‘where can I send my son or daughter to?’ and the people who give me these phone calls are normally parents that their kids have exhausted all their resources, and they’re looking for a free place. That’s why we decided to start Peniel Recovery Ministries to be a free, residential home for men to come to and break the chains of addiction,” said Rev. Clay Johnson, founder, Peniel Recovery Ministries.

When the recovery ministry is operating, they’ll be able to provide housing and guidance for those struggling with substance abuse for up to 16 months…

And, they’re being very well received by leaders from Dooly and Crisp county.

“This is desperately needed, we refer people to Clay(ton) all of the time. So, we’re really excited, it’s a huge deal. And, not just for the men earlier. Like I said earlier, when I was talking about the men who are going to be changed from being here, but the families that this is going to benefit,” said Amanda Neisent, Chairwoman, Dooly County Chamber of Commerce.

And, every local leader is in agreement that having a recovery ministry in Dooly county will make getting people the help they need much easier.

“Addiction affects all of us. If we’re really honest: it affects every household in our community. It’s tremendous to have a resource like this where we can have help for loved ones that is in proximity to our homes,” said Tim Powers, Chairman, Crisp County Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s extremely important. I think there needs to be one in every community,” said Rev. Johnson.

While there isn’t a definitive timeline for when Peniel is up and running, it’s already a welcomed addition to the area.

The new recovery ministry will be able to house 12 men at a single time.

For more information and donations, you can contact Reverend Johnson at 299-322-4665.

Brian Roche reporting.

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