In this deeply moving episode of Opening Doors Podcast, Rachel Dalinka sits down with Megan Cohen, founder and executive director of the Philadelphia Grace Project. Megan shares her powerful journey through addiction, homelessness, and eventual recovery—highlighting the resilience that brought her from the streets of Kensington to a life of purpose and advocacy. She opens up about her early struggles with substance abuse, the heartbreaking impact on her family, and the pivotal moments that led her to sobriety. Today, Megan dedicates her life to helping others through the Grace Project, offering hope to those battling addiction and poverty. This is a story of redemption, second chances, and the power of human kindness.
Megan's journey into addiction began unexpectedly after high school, escalating rapidly into heroin use and legal troubles.
Her family, particularly her mother, played a critical role in her recovery by setting firm boundaries.
The harsh realities of Kensington, Philadelphia, serve as a reminder of how addiction can devastate lives and entire communities.
A powerful encounter with a stranger became the turning point that led Megan to seek help.
Megan found lasting recovery through Bucks County Drug Court, which provided structure, accountability, and resources for rebuilding her life.
The Philadelphia Grace Project, founded by Megan, now serves the community through weekly outreach, holiday gift drives, and support programs for individuals affected by addiction, poverty, and trauma.
Philadelphia Grace Project: https://teamgraceproject.org/
Buck's County Recovery Court: Information on alternative sentencing and rehabilitation programs
Pleasure Unwoven: Documentary explaining addiction and brain function
Books:
What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Support Groups-Resources:
Grief Support Resources for Parents Who Have Lost Children to Gun Violence: https://judishouse.org/childhood-bereavement/gun-violence/
The Compassionate Friends non-profit organization exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process: https://www.compassionatefriends.org/
Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/
Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): https://coda.org/
Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: https://cap4kids.org/philadelphia/parent-handouts/parenting-foster-care-adoption/incarceration-resources/
Rainbows for All Children: https://rainbows.org/
Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents:
We Got Us Now: https://www.wegotusnow.org
National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: https://nrccfi.camden.rutgers.edu/resources/directory/national-programs/
Youth.Gov: Children of Incarcerated Parents: https://youth.gov/youth-topics/children-of-incarcerated-parents/tools-guides-resources
Sesame Workshop: https://sesameworkshop.org/topics/incarceration/
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Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella
