FOR CHURCHES

The Church Is One Of The Pillars Of The Refuge

The church has always been essential to the work of The Refuge. Many men who come to The Refuge, come from a connection with a church. We spend considerable time meeting with pastors, and men’s groups and speaking to congregations to share our story, and resources and to be known.


Families suffering under the weight of an addicted loved one, need to know that there is a reason for hope and a place where a man can find recovery from addiction and a life transformed.


We would love to come and meet with you, to share information, learn about your church, and leave you with resources for your staff and congregation. We are available to speak during services, we can share about our ministry and have one of our men share his story, and simply leave your congregation with a reason for hope. We often speak to men’s groups, sharing our story, and sharing the biblical principles our ministry operates on.

FAQs For Churches

These are the most frequently asked questions about our men's addiction recovery ministry. If you or your church has a question that's not covered here, please call Matthew Demoulin at 614-332-3027 or email matthew.demoulin@therefugeohio.org.

Email Matthew Demoulin
  • How do we contact The Refuge to set up a meeting or arrange for a speaker?

    You can email mail Matthew Demoulin at matthew.demoulin@therefugeohio.org, or call at 614-332-3027.

  • What kind of resources does The Refuge have for our church?

    We can come speak to your church or ministry, or can leave you with brochures, contact cards, and other materials that explain our program and give simple contact information for a struggling man or loved one. Contact Matthew Demoulin at matthew.demoulin@therefugeohio.org or 614-332-3027. 

  • Do you only accept men who are Christians?

    Absolutely not. Whether a man is a Christian is not a disqualifier, nor is it a question that we ask during our intake process. 


    We are “Team Jesus,” and the Gospel is a core component of our curriculum, every man will learn about Jesus, attend church, and be shown the importance of a relationship with Jesus in their life and recovery.

  • Is The Refuge connected to a denomination?

    No. We are an ecumenical organization and do not insist our men hold to any singular doctrine or belief.

  • What does it cost for a man to come into The Refuge?

    It does not cost anything to come into The Refuge.

  • How long has The Refuge been around?

    The Refuge was founded in 1999 in Vinton County, Ohio.

  • What can our church do to support The Refuge?

    We are a non-profit organization, so financial gifts are always appreciated and needed. We also have regular needs for hygiene items, bed sheets, pillows and other practical items. Please reach out to Matthew Demoulin at matthew.demoulin@therefugeohio.org or 614-332-3027 to get a list of current needs.

Testimonies From Refuge Alumni

"Praise God for all that He is doing in me, around me, and through me!"


We celebrate the transformation and restoration that Christ has brought to the lives of seven of our recent alumni.


They share their stories of struggle and healing in this inspiring story.