Soul Saving Productions: A Beacon of Hope for LA’s Unhoused and Addicted Population
In the heart of the sprawling city, where glitz and glamour often steal the spotlight, a dedicated soul by the name of James Junious is working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those who have fallen through the cracks of society. Founder, and Executive Director of Soul Saving Productions, he is on a mission to transform the lives of the unhoused and addicted population in LA.
By Philtrina Farquharson | Contributing Wirter
Los Angeles, CA – In the heart of the sprawling city, where glitz and glamour often steal the spotlight, a dedicated soul by the name of James Junious is working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those who have fallen through the cracks of society. Founder, and Executive Director of Soul Saving Productions, he is on a mission to transform the lives of the unhoused and addicted population in LA.
“The purpose of the food donation outreach every 2nd Sunday of the month in Skid Row is basically just a tool to reach more people. But the main mission is to help people out here struggling and get them into recovery and proper housing,” James explains passionately. “You know, just getting everybody, off the streets.”
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James’ journey towards this selfless cause began with a personal struggle. “I was buying and selling drugs and was also doing drugs in the streets,” he admits candidly. “For about three months, I was homeless, living in my car at Skid Row., I got deeper into drugs when I lost my mom in 2015. When I decided to get myself clean, I couldn’t just pass by and watch what was going on. I wanted to start helping people.”
He began helping people, others who had known him during his darkest days found inspiration and hope in his transformation. “That’s what really inspired me to start getting out there more and doing what I’m doing,” he says. Initially, he lacked the funds to start Soul Saving Productions officially, but he didn’t let that deter him. James used his own resources to drop off food at various churches and built relationships with people by offering haircuts and volunteering with other local outreach organizations to get his start.
The personal connections James has formed with those he’s helped keep him motivated. He shares a heartwarming story about a friend who was once homeless and struggling with addiction. “While in recovery, I was able to take her all the supplies she needed to make sure she stayed on the right path. She’s currently enrolled in college and recently celebrated her one-year sobriety milestone at AA meetings. That’s what inspires me and keeps me going.”
(Courtesy Photo)
In addition to his independent efforts, James collaborates with other organizations like “My Friend’s Place” and “Loving My Neighbor.” However, he acknowledges the challenges he faces, particularly in securing adequate funding and building a strong team to expand the organization’s impact.
James, the visionary behind Soul Saving Productions, serves as a living testimony for Los Angeles’ struggling and dependent community. His dedication to extending a helping hand to those in dire need not only showcases the strength of personal growth but, also highlights the profound impact that one individual with a goal can have on the lives of others, especially in the face of adversity.
As James Junious continues to lead Soul Saving Productions in its mission to change lives, the city of Los Angeles can rest assured that residents are dedicated to working tirelessly to bring hope and assistance to those who need it most. His journey is not just a testament to personal growth but a reminder that compassion and dedication can make a significant difference in the world.
Looking ahead to 2024, James envisions his first transitional home, designed to help six individuals at a time find their way to recovery and a better life. His ultimate goal is to establish multiple transitional homes for both men and women, with a future focus on children who are in need of critical support.
For more information about Soul Saving Productions and how you can support their mission, visit their website at soulsavingproductions.org/.
