Of all the videos I’ve made in the world, from the slums of India to the hoods in Karachi, Pakistan, for some reason, this experience hit me the hardest. There’s a lot to process here. I’ve seen poverty much worse than Kensington, but I've never experienced such an abandonment of humanity. Buddy is doing amazing work. Let’s hope we’re at the bottom here and things start moving in the right direction. Thanks to all of you who participated in this video! You’ve helped open our eyes. Buddy never asked for it, but if you like what he's doing, you can donate here: www.therockphilly.org/. Like any donation, do your research first; I can't be responsible for where the money goes. ► 🎥 More Behind the Scenes Videos: petersantenello.com/ ► 📝 My Free Weekly Newsletter: www.bit.ly/3HC36EH ► 👕 Merch: innercircle.petersantenello.com/collections/all
I’m not usually impressed by people claiming to know Jesus, but I was awestruck when Buddy said he stays optimistic because of Jesus. HE is what Jesus wanted us to be: kind, compassionate, nonjudgmental, and working tirelessly to help others.
@CulturalDiversityisNOTacrime Each person is their own individual. No one should suffer distrust due to the actions of other people. Guess what that's called? Discrimination. Not saying to go the opposite extreme either, but perhaps consider taking a more neutral stance.
Peter I was a paramedic in this area for 5 years. Burnout is an understatement. It's probably one of the biggest public health crises of our time yet it's clear our government is turning a blind eye to it
the guy in the video doesn't want to admit that they're just kicking the can down the road and he's profiting from it. And the city's complicit in everything
My 23yo son passed away a month ago. If he had a community of hope , purpose and a future things may have turned out differently for us. I praise God for any life that can be saved through this ministry and others like them. 🙏🏼
I am not a Christian, but seeing what Buddy is doing moved me. Imagine seeing your hometown went from working class neighborhood where people don't lock their doors and turn into a dystopian nightmare. Instead of moving out, he chose to join the ministry and help those lost souls on the streets day after day. People like Buddy are doing God's work!
Indeed, you don't have to be Christian, I am definitely not, but according to rumour he was a nice fella. What would Jesus do is a legitimately good question, and one should live like that. Many so called Christians do infact the opposite.
I was a raging heroin/fent addict for 7 yrs. Got myself clean alone and hopeless 😢 3 yrs later I’m an addiction counselor case manager and help others find the beauty in life ❤
So glad you turned your life around. I can't even imagine how hard that must have been. Hope that your successful story is further motivation to others who just need that extra push to get back on the right track.
Seeing that little kid being watched on the street by an addict while her mom goes to the “grown up” store was heartbreaking. One of the saddest things I’ve seen on this channel.
Peter, you were sent there to video this story for a reason. Whether you believe it, or like it, God is working in you. Thank you for showing us the reality of Kensington. It's heart wrenching.
My son Jerimiah 36, died 2 1/2 years ago . He had 88 days clean. For some reason he went out & bought some crack. His heart gave out. I found him in my kitchen. He struggled for so long. I tried everything to help him. I feel like I failed my son. The grief is horribly overwhelming. But he had 88 days clean, & Im so incredibly proud of him for that. I miss him , so much. I am sending prayers to all the addicts there, & everywhere.
Wendy, I am so sorry for your loss. I am so sorry that our society has failed our children. Please do not blame yourself for this tragedy. My prayer for you is that you experience a healing of freedom from your grief and any unmerited guilt you are carrying. God says (Romans 8:1). If we still stand firmly upon this truth (he says we are forgiven), we will be liberated from the spirit of condemnation. Be kind to yourself. And if God speaks to you do something positive with your son's story to honor him and help others.
you didnt, its not your fault, i know its hard to say its not your fault but its sincerely not. my grandparents raised me no drugs or bad behavior insite and i just met the wrong people. its meeting the wrong people and having fun at first then it becomes a problem. trust me its not your fault...
My condolences and you didn’t fail your son that was all on him my father tries everyday with me and I fall back into my bs and I end up angry at myself and I feel like a piece of garbage for it I need to get my clock in my head right so I’m thinking of not drinking heavy anymore or not drink at all
I did homeless outreach with Rock Ministries years ago. They do a lot for that community, help people get treatment, food donations, clothes donations, church service, boxing, Bible study’s. God bless them.
I would rather donate to an operation like that. Mainstream corporate charities spend less than 10% of what they take in on people in need. The rest goes to support its own bloat.
I used to be stuck in Kensington. 5 years of horrible drug addiction and hopelessness. There is a way out. There are many programs in Philly but people need to WANT to do it. I will be 4 years clean in 30 days. If you’re reading this and you’re still there, you can do it!
most of these people are from the suburbs. their local cops know who they are and get busted as soon as they are seen on their township streets, this is why they stay close to the heroin.
Another heroin addict in recovery here. 12 years addicted, 7 years now clean. It's so great to see an uplifting and positive story from Kensignton. Like all addicts I was a hopeless mess and luckily I hit my rock bottom before I was dead. Now I am a proud father and married man. There is a way out of this mess.. but we have to be real about it. There is no easy way.
Just when I think things are not going the way I want in life, I watch this and realize I am so blessed and thankful that I didn't have to grow up in a place like this or live there now. Buddy is an amazing man doing amazing work. May God bless him and his family and I hope that some day he no longer has to do such work!
Was a heroin addict for 10 years and finally got clean in Paterson Nj. Got my Kids back, going to school for my BSN for Nursing and working a full time job as a medical assistant for an endocrinology dept. license back. Fines paid. And happy and at peace.
My best friend from high school died from heroin. That was a long, long, time ago. I'm so happy when I hear a story like yours. My absolute best to you.
My parents go to church with Buddy and have gotten involved with worship and security. He’s an amazing man who just wants to help a community that he knows can be better than what it is. He’s taking kids off the street and giving them a future. He’s experienced the lows of addiction and knows there are ways out
@@jdog4461Maybe for the same reason that in the Twelve Steps for AA groups, a key step is surrender to a Higher Power. Because accepting you can't solve a problem yourself ironically often is a key that opens a door to long sought freedom from a problem. That, right then us when you miraculously 'get' a solution you just couldn't find, with all your striving and trying to make it happen yourself. Also, 'God' can be understood in Very different ways by people. For some, it just means the life force in everything or balance in nature.
@@lambchop6278But accepting you can't solve something by yourself and that you need help doesn't have anything to do with believing in God or a higher power - you could instead choose to seek support and help from other people - who actually really exist! (and therefore are alot more helpful than an imaginary friend). And also, AA and NA are just dangerous abusive cults, that aren't even effective, and hurt more people than they help. But maybe you didn't know that ...
You hit the nail on the head Peter: this is the abandonment of humanity. Where is the leadership? Where is common sense? Where is the humanity? It gives me hope to read these comments, knowing that there's so many of us out here who do care, and who are concerned, and who are angry. Thank you for giving these issues the attention and authenticity they deserve.
Buddy is an angel. He could have moved away, after the tragic loss of his siblings, but he decided to stay and help people. I am moved by his work. Thank you for showing us around.
I got my haircut on the 2600 block of Kensington Ave. and have been in the area since 1960. The city and the culture have changed to the point you see in the video. There are many reasons and excuses, political, social, and personal, but it doesn't matter because the bottom line is what you witness now in this neighborhood.
Started with weed at 16, about 10x a day till age 19, where I decided I needed help and checked myself in to rehab. Everyone was laughing at me, after all, they were in for heroine and crack, but the "stoner kid" needed help. One old man, with no teeth sat me down, told me not to listen to them and told me he started just like me and only wished he had the chance I had. This struck home for me. He helped me fight all the way, we became pretty close. He was clean 6 months when he left, he seemed fine, he OD'd and died 3 weeks later. I have not touched any drugs ever since. Never. I did struggle with alcohol a little, but fighting to be a good dad and be healthy for my kids first, is what saved me. In French we say "si jeunesse savant et si Vieillesse pouvait", if the youth knew and if the elderly could. Stay away kids...just stay away, there is no shortcut. Want a high? Go to the gym, tell someone you love them, save a life. It takes time, it's painful, it takes courage, but SO IS LIFE. No shortcuts.
That's an amazing story, admirable even. I know I am a stranger but I am glad to hear how you put your life back on track, It's not easy , WIsh you and your family all the best.
My 23 year old son “doesn’t like me” because i refer to weed as a drug. It literally watched it steal the light from his eyes. He’s definitely at some stage of psychosis after 10 years of daily smoking. Im guess im grateful he never had touched heroin.
Thank you so much church family! i was living on the streets of Kensington ,July 27th 2022 I walked into Rock ministry went to a Christian Program out in Orrington Maine, today i'm free from the bondage of drugs and alcohol.Only threw Gods grace and Mercy did I have the courage to walk inside that wonderful place to get help!, Thank you Joe our addictions ministry ,just one of many wonderful outreaches. That God made possible at Rock ministry for a 57 year old woman who's family gave up all hope in. Then God said,watch this! today I live in Florida just celebrated 2 yrs ! Thank you Jesus! Buddy, Craig, Sharon especially Lizzy! and how could I ever forget Joe Joe! Kensingknights4life!
I’m sure you won’t see this there’s too many comments but I just wanted to thank you for the bottom of my heart for showing this video. I’ve actually been a Christian for 30 years and this video touched me deeply. Thank you so much God bless.
I was raised in the Christian church with a Catholic dad and Methodist mom and none of my experiences in the Catholic or Protestant churches taught me to love my neighbor the way Buddy and his organization exemplify in this video. I’m agnostic but I see Buddy as a true man of Christ and his principles. I just donated and will continue to donate until Kensington and those fallen into addiction are given a second chance. Excellent work, Peter.
Have you ever wondered why Muslims don't have these problems? Do you know all the things that the ego wants are forbidden in Islam? The uncontrolled ego wants everything, it has all to do with control, who is in charge the ego or the soul?
grew up with a mother who was down in Kensington most of my life caught up in heroin, it took over a decade for things to change but she went from nothing but the clothes on her back to being a homeowner, going to college, and working with lawyers. To me that is living proof you can go from nothing to something.. praying for that little girl whose mother left her to get drugs. i know just how that was
My heart dropped seeing that little girl sitting on the street waiting for her mom. She is one of many innocent children who are bearing the consequences of a spiraling drug epidemic. We, as a nation, must do better.
I was at a friend's super bowl party years ago with a few young prosecutors and it was mentioned that 90% of all statutory rape cases and child molestation were emanating from Kensington. This is all by design and I believe the forces behind it run in elite western circles.
Broke my heart also. Our government can put up all these migrants. Why can't they help a family where children are involved. Without taking the child away. I by no means have anything against legal migrants. Not trying to there.
@@Supremewin777Red doesn’t care about the addicts and the people with mental health issues. Red doesn’t care about the homeless. Red doesn’t care that these people are someone’s mother or father or brother or sister or daughter or son. Red has no compassion or empathy or sympathy, because to Red, this is the persons “own fault” for getting addicted or being homeless. Red only cares about what’s good for Red, not what’s good for all. 💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙
I’m so impressed with your interviews and journalism. I can’t imagine being there in person and seeing everything with my own eyes. It’s very sad but I think it’s great that you are showing us what’s really taking place in this country.
Peter, I am a Muslim . Watching this video was heartbreaking.but, I want to say big thank you to buddy who is doing awesome work for humanity . God bless you all !!!!
I was on the streets of Kensington on and off for 8 yrs. prostituting and spending the money on heroin. I knew I was sick of living that life but was struggling to get out and get clean. Thank God one night I got arrested and spent a few days in jail on State Road. I prayed everyday Please God get me out of here and I'll change my life. 5 days later I was released on a year probation and I kept that promise and immediately got into drug and alcohol treatment and got clean. Now instead of going down Kensington for drugs I go down to give out food and talk with people how recovery is possible!! 10 years clean and never plan on going back. I hope to work with The Rock one day too they are an amazing organization in Kensington who truly care and help as much as possible. Thank God for Buddy and everyone who is working to make Kensington a better place for the people who live there and trying to help addicts as much as they can🙏🏼💜
I congratulate you on your virtuous path. My generation was literally decimated in the 80s/90s due to opiates and the resulting consequences. I lost many friends and acquaintances.😢
Just finished reading General Michael Flynn's book on 5th Generation Warfare - this is modern-day warfare. America is being attacked from within. In 5GW, drug casualties are considered "killed in action" believe it or not. Thank God for the people that found their way out and can now help others, it's the only chance we have to heal the nation. God is now working through you and you are helping others, an angel on earth. I wish you strength and peace as you continue this mission. 💚
Really loved this I’m not a Christian I really really love this guy I need to listen to and understand why people are true believers. Hearing these guys talk about their relationship with Jesus was fascinating.
We are true believers because Jesus is God in the flesh and He loves each of us very much. He carried our sins on the cross, so He could give us His righteousness. He took our punishment and death so He could give us His forgiveness, love and eternal life. He arose again so we could be in right standing with God, just as though we never have sinned. It is the greatest gift in life, Jesus Christ.
From someone who wrestled (and continues to wrestle) with equal parts materialist skepticism and convicted curiosity: know that Christ is ready to answer the call when you are ready to make it.
As Christian, it’s always fascinating to hear others stories. It’s really indescribable. That’s why we want to share this with others. We just want others to experience this joy and peace that comes from Christ.
I've watched 10 minutes of this and am blown away by how respectful your presentation is. Most uploads about Kensington have the feel of cheap voyeurism, but this is classy, humane and informative. Kudos to you from Center City Philly.
Great comment and “Agreed!” from me. I’ve slowly come to expect it from this channel - one of only a handful that keeps people’s humanity at the forefront and doesn’t push an agenda on us (almost like journalism is supposed to do?). What a breath of fresh air! Glad to watch alongside you.
If you’re new you should check out the rest of his channel. His videos about the US-Mexico border are some of the most interesting I’ve seen about the topic and he does such a good job of presenting a broad topic from numerous perspectives
You people run around watching addict videos too, then have to make some stupid comment about “sick voyeur.” Look at you peeping around! Hypocrite do gooder.
Peter thank you. I am a retired law enforcement professional and currently a professor in crime and public policy in Los Angeles and randomly came across this piece. I will be using it as a policy paper topic. Thank you so much for your work. We need this to highlight what is happening and how our policies as compassionate as they may be on paper are failing at helping our most vulnerable populations.
That’s exactly right, we are compassionate people and understand to an extent but what’s on paper is not helping in reality and this is what they won’t show. These politicians and people passing these laws need to be dragged here for a good 24hours to oversee what’s going on and see how compassionate they want to be afterwards. Pure BS!
Enablers keep people sick! Your policies are not compassionate! Tolerance only multiplies addiction, as you can see. Your policies are insane and only keep people sick, make for a nightmare life for the addict and for everyone around them. These BS policies just lead to a horrible life and early death!
I'm grown ass man 40yo, never had a drug problems in my life and i have watched most if not all of your videos, but this was one of the hardest to watch videos.
What was shown was a handful of dopers. Watch other videos before they cleaned up. There were at least 150 addicts at one time nodding off EVERYDAY at KnA
That child was me at one time in Kensington💛 as children of addicts most of us grow up to learn to never touch drugs in the same way our parents did💛 so there are positives!
@@GiGiBushawww thank u for sharing that story,it truly gives hope that maybe these kids aren't doomed for life,but will get out,be healthy, happy,etc ❤ proud of you!
7 years of heroin and fentanyl I spent a decade ruining my life hoping to die and now I'm quite grateful to be alive and I hope others can find a way out 'cause there is a way it's not easy but it does make you a better person
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,big rich government better watch learn,,,,,,,and help make laws for dealing drugs,,,,,,a rico act,,,,,,,,,decades to life in jail.............
@@ThomasELeClair Not going to lie that part has me angry too that it depends on who is in charge that makes a difference on how they respond to the situation it should be a universal & reasonable resolution.
What Buddy and The Rock are doing is absolutely outstanding. Giving kids an opportunity to learn discipline, work ethic and Get a trade under their belt all under one roof or organization is world beating. Truly changing the future of the youth. Superb man.
I must admit, I am truly impressed with the work THE ROCK ORGANIZATION is doing. We need more places like these in every urban city. People need an outlet where they can socialize in a positive environment. And with the HELP OF GOD!!! All is possible. GOD BLESS The Rock Organization keep up the good work.
@@subzero07094 Christ is Love. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Praise the Lord. Amen.
❤ this video really touched me. The Rock Ministries is a fabulous organization. Thank you to all those people who work there and helped so many people.😊
I woke up this morning feeling a little sorry for myself. But this video reminded me of just how great I have, and have always had it. My dad died when I was 8; but my mom worked hard to give me a stable, secure life filled with opportunities. Thank you Peter for sharing this. And thanks to all of the people who are making a positive difference in these people's lives.
Hands down, this is one of the hardest and most gut-wrenching videos on your channel. It's also your best work to date. I can't imagine how difficult it was to make this.
The way you covered this is truly remarkable. If this country truly cared about real journalism anymore you would be showered with awards. Eventually this ship will be righted, in the meanwhile keep doing gods work.
I work for one of the utility company’s in the city. It requires me to be in and around the Kensington area frequently. The situations inside some of the homes within Kensington is just as bad as the streets. Flea infestations, broken sewage pipes, animal feces, malnourished pets, etc. I’ve walked out of homes covered in fleas. I’ve witnessed animal abuse. It’s so shameful that this behavior has become so common. My heart breaks for my hometown.
I hear you. Long ago I used to install Direct TV or HBO antennas. Yeah Kensington and surrounding areas were real eye openers. I was raised in the far northeast so I wasn't accustomed to such things. I had a summer job once taking baby pictures for some photo outfit. I had an address that took me to a hole in a wall that used to be a corner general store in Kensington. I met them outside and they brought me in through that hole in the wall into what looked like a bombed out scene in a WWII movie. The sat the 3 yr old on a cardboard box that happened to be there and said take the picture. Trying to get the kid to smile they would say "smile for the man 'Fat Man' " That's what they called him as his name! Yeah, like you I have seen animals locked in feces loaded basements, severe hoarding and on and on. It is truly unbelievable.
YOU NEED TO CALL ANIMAL CONTROL ABOUT ANIMAL ABUSE NO ANIMAL SHOULD SUFFER BECAUSE OF THIS MESS THE WORDS OF ABE LINCOLN THOSE WHO SEE CRUELTY AND DO NOTHING THEY THEMSELVES ARE CRUEL or call me at 718 426 1896 e me at etstakeawalk11372@gmail.com ASAP
Peter, this might be one of your best videos I've ever seen. Simply because you're covering the bright spot in such a terrible place. Plenty of people drive up and down and walk up and down those streets making videos of the atrocities but your video shows that there's hope there. The Rock and it's people are such a breath of fresh air.
I just donated to The Rock ministries. I wasn't a Christian for 38 years of my life, but then in 2019, I gave my life to Jesus. I know many reading this will eye roll, believe me, I used to eye roll too. I was a militant atheist, turned atheist, then stoic for most of my adult life until I went through a mental health crisis while in the military. My stoicism didn't prepare me to handle the stress and I was prescribed some of the worst anti-depressants and sleep medicines. I can definitely see how people fall into drug abuse, so I'm empathetic to many people in this video despite how hard it to watch. Thank God for The Rock ministry. So much hope and apostolic work being done.
Thanks for sharing that, and thanks for spreading love with your donation by helping good people help people. What’s your story on finding god/jesus? I know you said you had a crisis but what exactly made you start believing and turn into religion after being an atheist for so long?
@@MrDubstepPromoter my wife had been a Christian our whole marriage so I would sometimes go to Church with her. Most of the Churches and Christians were the stereotypes of people I didn't want to be associated with. But then we started going to some good Churches that started breaking down my barrier. I don't have a silver bullet moment at the lowest of lows or anything like that. Just small positive steps of the Lord revealing himself to me and the perils of stoicism.
@BrandonJacobson Listen, what does boxing have to do with Christ? I understand punching a bag for exercise but not another person. "...no brawler, no striker" for example, are the requirements to be a deacon in the church. Also, Buddy does not know and is not teaching the truth about salvation which is found in these verses: Acts 2:38 Acts 22:16 Mark 16:16 Revelation 1:5 Hebrews 9:17* 1 Corinthians 11 (head covering) You can call me a legalist- false doctrine/man-made doctrine is deadly.
Hi Peter, my son turned me on to your channel and I have enjoyed them, but this one was special. I am a Pastor down in Savannah, GA and Buddy is doing an awesome job for the Kingdom of God.
Buddy, my late brother opened up a children's ministry right out of prison. We ran all over Kensington, 5th and Allegheny, all the way to west and north Philly. You may have actually knew him. Born and raised 19140!! Love my people. Thank you Buddy!
I cried tears of sadness and tears of hope throughout this video. God bless the dedication and love of the leaders of the Rock and prayers for all who come through their doors. Excellent work, peter.
Thank You Peter for the great work making this video , regardless of believe , the works Buddy and the whole team are doing it the work of humble heroes . I’m 38 years clean , here in the UK and what USA has today we will have here in the UK within a decade if not the beginnings of the epidemic already . Thank you for such diligent and professional reporting . David
I live a very quiet and low income life in the country, far removed from this situation. I have fresh air and space and feel like I've succeeded by getting out of a bad upbringing. But I wonder if me making a good clean country life for myself is enough. I've taken care of myself, but I can't reach anyone like these guys are. These guys are soldiers and angels.
“Lord, where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon where there is doubt, faith where there is despair, hope where there is darkness, light where there is sadness, joy.”
Peter I’m a social worker and I just want to say thank you for the important work you and your wife do. I can’t imagine how exhausting and devastating this must of been but know that it is so appreciated.
Beautiful to see fellow Christians practicing what they preach -- no church or books required, just good people caring and doing honest hard work. Love to see it!
When I clicked in this video, i figured it was just another Kensington tale of woe. How far off I was! This is a ray of sunshine and hope! God bless you, and thank you.
Great Video. I met Buddy at a conference recently at Calvery Chapel in Orrington, Maine that has their own drug rehab program. Buddy spoke on his work and on the challenges of people in recovery . His words were both tear-invoking and awe-inspiring. He's a man on an amazing mission. I wish him and everyone there at the Rock great success.
Clearly what he’s doing works for a lot of people; how do you square with all of the Christian people who’ve endured horrible circumstances and then passed away. Constantly hearing “Jesus is here for you,” when I’ve seen so many believes get cancer and die painfully just doesn’t work for me or some other people. If that’s the foundation, isn’t it easily broken?
@cowmath77 , I 100% get your point and agree with you. I have questioned my faith many times due to tragic events such as losing some of the most amazing, genuine, beautiful people I had the privilege to call them my friend. I also have had many situations thar were going bad, but ended with positive result. Those experiences are what keeps my faith alive.
@@cowmath77 To 🐄 Every person alive today, will have died in 100 years, whether miraculously healed at times, or not. Faith in God isn't about Him making things how we want them to be. It's knowing He loves us, and changes us spiritually on the inside, to have His love in us to live out our days. Though Jesus is the Light of the World, He died. (&came back to life) ALL will eventually die. We believe because Jesus is Life, we will live with Him. May God answer ALL the questions of your heart.❤
This is one of the most incredible videos on youtube. Not only that, but the story you've weaved into this is beautiful. Ending the video in that Mexican restaurant is a poignant end. And Buddy is an amazing man.
This documentary was so much emotions, from seeing Kensington and the people who were zombies laying on the street, the little girl and her mom. I didn't expect to be filled with so much hope, joy and happiness by the end. Thank God for The Rock and all of the people within the organization. What an incredible organization.
Although I’m not a Christian, I’m Buddhist, I have so much respect for Buddy and The Rock! THIS is how we as people of faith must conduct ourselves. Being directly in society, supporting our communities and sharing the truth with people… which is the limitless potential each person has no matter what cards they’re dealt. We could either look away, or help folks transform their suffering. That’s the true testament to our beliefs. Thank you Peter for shedding light on Kensington.
Peter, my family is in a constant state of recovery, having gone through rehabs, programs, religions. My daughter & son in law are clean from the heavy dope but still use other things like marijuana and alcohol. I will be sharing this video with my whole family tonight! Thank you!
9 years ago, I was an I v drug user, and Jesus Christ rescued me. There is only hope in Jesus. Praise God for The Rock ministries. The man told Peter I have Jesus, and it was powerful. I'm going to finish watching the video. Only 16 minutes in and weeping for these people. Help, Lord!
An oasis is defined as “a fertile spot in a desert, where water is found.” Buddy has created an oasis whose life-sustaining source is hope. Thank you, as always, Peter, for opening my eyes to this desert of unimaginable hopelessness, and the oasis in its midst.
I am an recovering addict. Last hit of heroin I had was year 2000. Rules are exactly what they need. I can honestly say being strung out, addicts won't want to change. They're incapable of making that life changing choice. Then it's the long process of recovery. With people who help them one step at a time. Every hurdle and struggle, they have that support system they can count on till they strong and finally believe in themselves. It's a massive job.
@@haydengodbold6569 Congratulations on your clean time. You're right in many ways. Up until a few months ago there wasn't even rules via the cops. People just slamming dope wherever they wanted. XYLAZINE changed every aspect of detoxing to sobriety. The withdrawal from that horse tranquilizer they say is horrific and that's from the mouths of long time heroin users. Even if you get clean there's only two rehabs that will take anyone with open wounds. 100% of fentanyl has tranq in it. Thus what worked in the old days ain't now. Again, congratulations.
@@MrReymoclif714 Technically it is a drug. A sedative drug used by veterinarians. Definitely not a drug to be used by humans. Absolutely agree it's changed the dynamics, and I believe 💯.that it's by design.
Wow, just so shocking how bad things are in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia. I got to tip my hat to Buddy...you can tell his heart is really for the neighborhood. Keep up the good work.
THIS IS YOUR BEST ONE YET . I, also, am not religious. But I gotta say, it is really refreshing to see people so passionate about something so positive. It doesn't matter to me what they believe in. It is obvious that it makes them better people, and to me, that matters more than anything.
i am religious when i go to bed and thank god there is peace in my bedroom . grow big in amsterdam and need to jump over the heroin addickt . sad things can move people foreword but when people helping eachother and sweep the streets , the gangs are gone !!!!!!!!!!1
WOW Peter, this episode was a Grand Slam. It was so refreshing seeing real people caring about their fellow citizens. The Rock gives me hope in Humanity.
This was just HEARTBREAKING!!!! That poor little girl waiting for her mother to finish her business, just PITIFUL!!!! Buddy is DOING AMAZING WORK, but it has to be OVERWHELMING to him at times!!!! And you're right Buddy - "Jesus NEVER Fails"!!!! Thanks Peter!!!!
He said “no child should see what they see here “ and at the beginning “in the 70s my brother and his 5 friends saw a guy shooting up and they all became drug addicts “ I don’t think they are making ANY progress !
Push harm reduction methods to line the pockets of city council members as they are the ones that pick who provides harm reduction paraphernalia. Provide poor educational facilities that limit the populations ability to read and do basic math, while increasing the cities educational funding. Use the state run media to promote a one party platform to inform the uneducated population that this is what is best for them. The cycle repeats as the people in power have no term limits and get rich while their salaries are minimal.
My bf died of a pain pill overdose I I found him on our new apartment couch I myself struggle with addiction I'm no longer on the pain pills I sought help shortly after he passed . It's been 10 and a half yrs and it feels like yesterday everyday at times. I love him I wish I new what I know now. His name was Derrick and he was the smile that lit a room the laugh would make you laugh even when the day was somber. I miss him so much! I'm glad your Derrick has gotten help this is an evil evil drug. Ty for sharing
I am 69 and my husband is 70. We both grew up in Kensington. Although our families left many years ago I would like to say back when we were young Kensington Ave was a wonderful place and Christmas was magical.❤️
Your generation was the only generation to experience an American that was great as a child, teen and adult. It was bad before you were born and it got bad right around the time you became elderly and that's because we are under a foreign occupation. People didn't pay attention for far to many decades and now they own everything
Yes mam, I’m 61, worked in McDonald’s and Rite Aide and knew every store owner in 1979-1981. I was happy to be there, and my heat aches, the city corralled the addicted in Kensington and they are trying to contain it there.
I'm a Christian from the UK and I've seen most of your videos Peter but this one broke me to tears. I'm so shocked that the drug problem is so high and easily accessed in America. I pray those that can help quickly and make the area safer for the community and children. Buddy and his team are doing an incredible job despite what they're facing each day. Thank you for sharing this and having those conversations. ❤❤❤
Its terribly sad ive from ohio i can name 80 ppl i know family friends associates that have passed. Even more that I know of from growing up going to school.
Yet my daughter with systemic lupus can’t get a single prescription pain pill per day. This is the globalist working with the cartels. Europe is done and gone - been gone. They want the US next.
I'm in a recovery center just outside of philly, 90 days clean myself. Seems like we loose people back to that neighborhood on a weekly basis. It is an epidemic. Thanks so much for covering it Peter.
I struggled with addiction for 14 years before the best thing happened. I got a 3 year prison sentence. No matter how you get clean anyone can do it but they definitely need the support. Thank you for what you guys do and thanks for sharing this.
Jesus took a hold of me in 1983 and has never let go. I resisted, he persisted. He can change your life forever. I am now 67 years old and I am still his child. God bless The Rock ministries and those that run it.
Of all the videos I’ve made in the world, from the slums of India to the hoods in Karachi, Pakistan, for some reason, this experience hit me the hardest. There’s a lot to process here. I’ve seen poverty much worse than Kensington, but I've never experienced such an abandonment of humanity.
Buddy is doing amazing work. Let’s hope we’re at the bottom here and things start moving in the right direction. Thanks to all of you who participated in this video! You’ve helped open our eyes.
Buddy never asked for it, but if you like what he's doing, you can donate here: www.therockphilly.org/. Like any donation, do your research first; I can't be responsible for where the money goes.
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thanks for your videos peter shoutout buddy
Support the Rock and you
Thank you, Peter. What you do is priceless.
Have you noticed you keep running into people that tell you about Jesus
It was brave just to even go. It's like a war zone. I don't know how we let it get to this. It's heart breaking.
I was on those streets for 25 years. By God's grace I have almost 6 years clean. I work at the rehab that saved my life. We do recover
Rock on, brother. I'm proud of you!!!
❤
You’re a testament to sobriety…
Way to go and more blessings of the Lord
GOD BLESS YOU🙏🏼
I’m not usually impressed by people claiming to know Jesus, but I was awestruck when Buddy said he stays optimistic because of Jesus. HE is what Jesus wanted us to be: kind, compassionate, nonjudgmental, and working tirelessly to help others.
true!
@CulturalDiversityisNOTacrime Meaning?
@CulturalDiversityisNOTacrime you just described every Hollywood celebrity, professional sports players, and music moguls!
Your first sentence's exactly what's on my mind.
@CulturalDiversityisNOTacrime Each person is their own individual. No one should suffer distrust due to the actions of other people. Guess what that's called? Discrimination. Not saying to go the opposite extreme either, but perhaps consider taking a more neutral stance.
Peter I was a paramedic in this area for 5 years. Burnout is an understatement. It's probably one of the biggest public health crises of our time yet it's clear our government is turning a blind eye to it
Parents are turning a blind eye…cut to the source. 90% have a one-parent household and absentee father. Nothing is going to change until that changes.
or orchestrating it
@@marykaymacshane1001 Myself and many others had one parent. We never sold our souls/spirit for drugs. And yes, my siblings and I lived in poverty.
the guy in the video doesn't want to admit that they're just kicking the can down the road and he's profiting from it. And the city's complicit in everything
I was saying earlier, we got thru the opioid crisis only for Fentanyl to come thru which is even worse!
My 23yo son passed away a month ago. If he had a community of hope , purpose and a future things may have turned out differently for us. I praise God for any life that can be saved through this ministry and others like them. 🙏🏼
So very sorry for your loss 😢
USA should become a bit more like Europe, sorry to say, but it has great social catch nets. and its not evil socialism xD
I'm sry. Addiction is a monster. Powerful monster.
Sorry for your loss. I hope you find the peace that surpasses all understanding. 🙏🙏🙏
🙏 I'm so sorry for your loss 😢
I am not a Christian, but seeing what Buddy is doing moved me. Imagine seeing your hometown went from working class neighborhood where people don't lock their doors and turn into a dystopian nightmare. Instead of moving out, he chose to join the ministry and help those lost souls on the streets day after day. People like Buddy are doing God's work!
One of the good guys making a difference. 💪❤️❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼💪
Indeed, you don't have to be Christian, I am definitely not, but according to rumour he was a nice fella. What would Jesus do is a legitimately good question, and one should live like that. Many so called Christians do infact the opposite.
@@McSlobo Fear not for Christ searcheth the heart and mind. 💪
I am a Christian, and only by grace, I hope you will join God's peaceful army.
I don't believe or disbelieve...
Just try to be a good person. And this guy is most definately one of those and above and beyond!
I was a raging heroin/fent addict for 7 yrs. Got myself clean alone and hopeless 😢 3 yrs later I’m an addiction counselor case manager and help others find the beauty in life ❤
Sounds like "that small, still voice" from inside you, prevailed. Now you have so much to give, because you've been there.
Thank GOD!
👏🏾 👏🏾 👏🏾
So glad you turned your life around. I can't even imagine how hard that must have been. Hope that your successful story is further motivation to others who just need that extra push to get back on the right track.
Kratom got me off dope🎉🎉🎉
Seeing that little kid being watched on the street by an addict while her mom goes to the “grown up” store was heartbreaking. One of the saddest things I’ve seen on this channel.
The saddest thing I see is most likely thr majority of city council is on drugs themselves. No chance.
@@JohnBoyJoy Yup I noticed that.
Absolutely pathetic 👿 and 100% PURE evil 👿🤬😡👿🤢🤬🤮🤮🤮
The grown up store 🏬 so sad
Her mom is probly on drugs too
Peter, you were sent there to video this story for a reason. Whether you believe it, or like it, God is working in you. Thank you for showing us the reality of Kensington. It's heart wrenching.
I was down there 8 years ago. I now have 8 years sober and a beautiful life. It's possible 💕
Praise God 🎉🎉🎉 God Bless You. As they say, stayed prayed up ❤😊
👍🙏🙏
Glad you are living a clean and beautiful life. You deserve nothing less ❤
Wonderful
That's fantastic 👏
My son Jerimiah 36, died 2 1/2 years ago . He had 88 days clean. For some reason he went out & bought some crack. His heart gave out. I found him in my kitchen. He struggled for so long. I tried everything to help him. I feel like I failed my son. The grief is horribly overwhelming. But he had 88 days clean, & Im so incredibly proud of him for that. I miss him , so much. I am sending prayers to all the addicts there, & everywhere.
Wendy, I am so sorry for your loss. I am so sorry that our society has failed our children. Please do not blame yourself for this tragedy. My prayer for you is that you experience a healing of freedom from your grief and any unmerited guilt you are carrying. God says (Romans 8:1). If we still stand firmly upon this truth (he says we are forgiven), we will be liberated from the spirit of condemnation. Be kind to yourself. And if God speaks to you do something positive with your son's story to honor him and help others.
❤❤❤
you didnt, its not your fault, i know its hard to say its not your fault but its sincerely not. my grandparents raised me no drugs or bad behavior insite and i just met the wrong people. its meeting the wrong people and having fun at first then it becomes a problem. trust me its not your fault...
The world is so cruel parents can do all they can and do all the perfect and right things, but when the world treats you so poorly..
My condolences and you didn’t fail your son that was all on him my father tries everyday with me and I fall back into my bs and I end up angry at myself and I feel like a piece of garbage for it I need to get my clock in my head right so I’m thinking of not drinking heavy anymore or not drink at all
This video should be on national network television.
They will never show it unfortunately
The powers that be would never allow that to happen.
Main stream media died in 2012 with the passage of The Smith Mundt Modernization Act. Now all national networks are state controlled propaganda.
Somebody call the trump team.
😂
These Rock guys are beautiful humans, humble and real.
I did homeless outreach with Rock Ministries years ago. They do a lot for that community, help people get treatment, food donations, clothes donations, church service, boxing, Bible study’s. God bless them.
I would rather donate to an operation like that. Mainstream corporate charities spend less than 10% of what they take in on people in need. The rest goes to support its own bloat.
If I ever win the lottery Buddy will never need another donation. God bless him and the lost souls that stroll the streets
People need love and community too. Our countries society needs to welcome people back and stop traumatizing children.
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I used to be stuck in Kensington. 5 years of horrible drug addiction and hopelessness. There is a way out. There are many programs in Philly but people need to WANT to do it. I will be 4 years clean in 30 days. If you’re reading this and you’re still there, you can do it!
That's Damn straight!
Bless you, and go help your fellow Human!
Peace
Blessings and honour in your life!! You need to say to yourself how absolutely proud you are of YOU! Congratulations
❤❤❤❤
most of these people are from the suburbs. their local cops know who they are and get busted as soon as they are seen on their township streets, this is why they stay close to the heroin.
BRAVO!!!!!
Another heroin addict in recovery here. 12 years addicted, 7 years now clean. It's so great to see an uplifting and positive story from Kensignton. Like all addicts I was a hopeless mess and luckily I hit my rock bottom before I was dead. Now I am a proud father and married man. There is a way out of this mess.. but we have to be real about it. There is no easy way.
Just when I think things are not going the way I want in life, I watch this and realize I am so blessed and thankful that I didn't have to grow up in a place like this or live there now. Buddy is an amazing man doing amazing work. May God bless him and his family and I hope that some day he no longer has to do such work!
Was a heroin addict for 10 years and finally got clean in Paterson Nj. Got my Kids back, going to school for my BSN for Nursing and working a full time job as a medical assistant for an endocrinology dept. license back. Fines paid. And happy and at peace.
God bless you and your family
🙏✝️👈
good job.
My best friend from high school died from heroin. That was a long, long, time ago. I'm so happy when I hear a story like yours. My absolute best to you.
Well done!!!
My parents go to church with Buddy and have gotten involved with worship and security. He’s an amazing man who just wants to help a community that he knows can be better than what it is. He’s taking kids off the street and giving them a future. He’s experienced the lows of addiction and knows there are ways out
May God bless Buddy and your parents
@@djmarakame8714 why cant the community help without god?
@@jdog4461 huh? Everyone can help. What is the deal with you?
@@jdog4461Maybe for the same reason that in the Twelve Steps for AA groups, a key step is surrender to a Higher Power. Because accepting you can't solve a problem yourself ironically often is a key that opens a door to long sought freedom from a problem. That, right then us when you miraculously 'get' a solution you just couldn't find, with all your striving and trying to make it happen yourself. Also, 'God' can be understood in Very different ways by people. For some, it just means the life force in everything or balance in nature.
@@lambchop6278But accepting you can't solve something by yourself and that you need help doesn't have anything to do with believing in God or a higher power - you could instead choose to seek support and help from other people - who actually really exist! (and therefore are alot more helpful than an imaginary friend).
And also, AA and NA are just dangerous abusive cults, that aren't even effective, and hurt more people than they help.
But maybe you didn't know that ...
This man is a hero. God give strength to everyone who struggles with this matter.
You hit the nail on the head Peter: this is the abandonment of humanity. Where is the leadership? Where is common sense? Where is the humanity? It gives me hope to read these comments, knowing that there's so many of us out here who do care, and who are concerned, and who are angry. Thank you for giving these issues the attention and authenticity they deserve.
Thank you!
Buddy is an angel. He could have moved away, after the tragic loss of his siblings, but he decided to stay and help people. I am moved by his work. Thank you for showing us around.
yeah, yeah ..but his intestines are hanging out ... no big deal ..just a little bit of intestines ... like Monty Python stuff
@@jake8077 need to read into laws and rights reeeeeeeeeeeeeee
He’s banking off the Kensington situation. Don’t kid yourself 🙄
I wondered this too but how could you say he's not helping people? Look at all the kids there in that safe space
Buddy is part of the problem.
He supports free needles.
Case closed.
Wow, Buddy and his colleagues need to receive recognition and an award for all the wonderful work they are doing.
I got my haircut on the 2600 block of Kensington Ave. and have been in the area since 1960. The city and the culture have changed to the point you see in the video. There are many reasons and excuses, political, social, and personal, but it doesn't matter because the bottom line is what you witness now in this neighborhood.
Or not, because that is hollow. That's how people get corrupted, pride.
They have recognition. Their Higher Power in Jesus. That's all you need :)
@@dustman96nailed it. They are blessed which is way better than awarded. Its their blessing to serve others. Its the only way.
They will, my friend, they will. 🥛🍯
“It’s a tourist attraction for people to watch them die on the streets” that brought tears to my eyes
Back in 1998 The Winter Olympics were held in Nagano, Japan.
Started with weed at 16, about 10x a day till age 19, where I decided I needed help and checked myself in to rehab. Everyone was laughing at me, after all, they were in for heroine and crack, but the "stoner kid" needed help.
One old man, with no teeth sat me down, told me not to listen to them and told me he started just like me and only wished he had the chance I had. This struck home for me. He helped me fight all the way, we became pretty close. He was clean 6 months when he left, he seemed fine, he OD'd and died 3 weeks later.
I have not touched any drugs ever since. Never. I did struggle with alcohol a little, but fighting to be a good dad and be healthy for my kids first, is what saved me.
In French we say "si jeunesse savant et si Vieillesse pouvait", if the youth knew and if the elderly could.
Stay away kids...just stay away, there is no shortcut. Want a high? Go to the gym, tell someone you love them, save a life. It takes time, it's painful, it takes courage, but SO IS LIFE.
No shortcuts.
That's an amazing story, admirable even. I know I am a stranger but I am glad to hear how you put your life back on track, It's not easy , WIsh you and your family all the best.
Yes baby!!! Good for you,wish I would have stopped there but 17 years sober now! Amazing comment
My 23 year old son “doesn’t like me” because i refer to weed as a drug. It literally watched it steal the light from his eyes. He’s definitely at some stage of psychosis after 10 years of daily smoking. Im guess im grateful he never had touched heroin.
And now they have to gal to legalize weed and open them like coffee shops! That makes no sense! It starts with weed and beer!
Anything has potential to become addictive. I was addicted to weed until i decided that wasn't good enough 😢
"Never desensitized to what I see because I have Jesus and I have hope." Love it brother! ❤
To live gloriously, and DIE without any regrets...
I loved this part so much
Amen. Major Kudos to Buddy. Thanks for not becoming "Desensitized".🫶🌹🫶🌹🙌🙏👍👏🫶🫶🫶🫶
Me too PTL 🙏
@@OtomoTenzi Democrat cities
This is what your Democrats are doing to my Ukraine
Thanks Ameirka
I'm a 48 years old man and Dad to 3 grown up boys. This one had me crying. Never stop opening our eyes Peter.
Me too. I been heart broken and sobbing hard. Now I am angry!
a good father would have his boys become men...
Divorced?
It's a 2 block area you blink your eyes and your in and out of it😊
I KNOW EXACTLY HOW THIS HAPPENED. ASK ME
@PeterSantenello
Thank you for putting time into this issue, we need to help our brothers and sisters ourselves at this point.
Thank you so much church family! i was living on the streets of Kensington ,July 27th 2022 I walked into Rock ministry went to a Christian Program out in Orrington Maine, today i'm free from the bondage of drugs and alcohol.Only threw Gods grace and Mercy did I have the courage to walk inside that wonderful place to get help!, Thank you Joe our addictions ministry ,just one of many wonderful outreaches. That God made possible at Rock ministry for a 57 year old woman who's family gave up all hope in. Then God said,watch this! today I live in Florida just celebrated 2 yrs ! Thank you Jesus! Buddy, Craig, Sharon especially Lizzy! and how could I ever forget Joe Joe! Kensingknights4life!
Well done margaret what an achievement godbless you
Big Big Love from the UK 🇬🇧
You allowed other people to program you because you didn't do well programming yourself(being an individual)
A true success story ❤ Thank you for sharing.
Shout out to Maine!!!!
I’m sure you won’t see this there’s too many comments but I just wanted to thank you for the bottom of my heart for showing this video. I’ve actually been a Christian for 30 years and this video touched me deeply. Thank you so much God bless.
one of pete's best or maybe pete's best
Saw it. Thank you!
@@PeterSantenelloyou need to read these comments every day so you are reminded that Americans are with you!
I was raised in the Christian church with a Catholic dad and Methodist mom and none of my experiences in the Catholic or Protestant churches taught me to love my neighbor the way Buddy and his organization exemplify in this video. I’m agnostic but I see Buddy as a true man of Christ and his principles. I just donated and will continue to donate until Kensington and those fallen into addiction are given a second chance. Excellent work, Peter.
❤❤❤
WOW, what A Sweet thought and Comment. They Need MORE PEOPLE Like YOU; Not judgmental and thoughtful and Seeing Christ in their merciful Actions.
Some talk the talk - others walk the walk
@@AustinKiger That’s because they are Christian, not religious. Big difference.
Have you ever wondered why Muslims don't have these problems? Do you know all the things that the ego wants are forbidden in Islam? The uncontrolled ego wants everything, it has all to do with control, who is in charge the ego or the soul?
I really enjoyed listening to Rock. We need more people like him. Thank you for what you’re doing Rock.
grew up with a mother who was down in Kensington most of my life caught up in heroin, it took over a decade for things to change but she went from nothing but the clothes on her back to being a homeowner, going to college, and working with lawyers. To me that is living proof you can go from nothing to something.. praying for that little girl whose mother left her to get drugs. i know just how that was
❤
That's awesome! She is a soldier!!
My heart dropped seeing that little girl sitting on the street waiting for her mom. She is one of many innocent children who are bearing the consequences of a spiraling drug epidemic. We, as a nation, must do better.
I was at a friend's super bowl party years ago with a few young prosecutors and it was mentioned that 90% of all statutory rape cases and child molestation were emanating from Kensington. This is all by design and I believe the forces behind it run in elite western circles.
VOTE RED ❤❤❤❤
Broke my heart also. Our government can put up all these migrants. Why can't they help a family where children are involved. Without taking the child away. I by no means have anything against legal migrants. Not trying to there.
Unfortunately, she may be part of the cycle.
@@Supremewin777Red doesn’t care about the addicts and the people with mental health issues. Red doesn’t care about the homeless. Red doesn’t care that these people are someone’s mother or father or brother or sister or daughter or son. Red has no compassion or empathy or sympathy, because to Red, this is the persons “own fault” for getting addicted or being homeless. Red only cares about what’s good for Red, not what’s good for all. 💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙🌊💙
The world could use a lot more Buddy’s. Amazing man, thank you.
I’m so impressed with your interviews and journalism. I can’t imagine being there in person and seeing everything with my own eyes. It’s very sad but I think it’s great that you are showing us what’s really taking place in this country.
Peter, I am a Muslim . Watching this video was heartbreaking.but, I want to say big thank you to buddy who is doing awesome work for humanity . God bless you all !!!!
I'm so happy for everyone here in the comments who made it out alive. May you live a long and healthy life!
Amen to this!!
I was on the streets of Kensington on and off for 8 yrs. prostituting and spending the money on heroin. I knew I was sick of living that life but was struggling to get out and get clean. Thank God one night I got arrested and spent a few days in jail on State Road. I prayed everyday Please God get me out of here and I'll change my life. 5 days later I was released on a year probation and I kept that promise and immediately got into drug and alcohol treatment and got clean. Now instead of going down Kensington for drugs I go down to give out food and talk with people how recovery is possible!! 10 years clean and never plan on going back. I hope to work with The Rock one day too they are an amazing organization in Kensington who truly care and help as much as possible. Thank God for Buddy and everyone who is working to make Kensington a better place for the people who live there and trying to help addicts as much as they can🙏🏼💜
I congratulate you on your virtuous path. My generation was literally decimated in the 80s/90s due to opiates and the resulting consequences. I lost many friends and acquaintances.😢
Congrats. I'm sooo proud of you!!!! ❤❤
Proud of you
Just finished reading General Michael Flynn's book on 5th Generation Warfare - this is modern-day warfare. America is being attacked from within. In 5GW, drug casualties are considered "killed in action" believe it or not. Thank God for the people that found their way out and can now help others, it's the only chance we have to heal the nation. God is now working through you and you are helping others, an angel on earth. I wish you strength and peace as you continue this mission. 💚
RReena, praying for your sobriety, you got this, and congratulations!
Maybe the best video I've seen from this channel. Really great to see people so passionate about helping their community.
Really loved this
I’m not a Christian
I really really love this guy
I need to listen to and understand why people are true believers.
Hearing these guys talk about their relationship with Jesus was fascinating.
May Jesus christ open your heart
Jesus is working in you. Your comment shows that. Accept Jesus, and you'll find peace and comfort you've never known. 🙏
We are true believers because Jesus is God in the flesh and He loves each of us very much. He carried our sins on the cross, so He could give us His righteousness. He took our punishment and death so He could give us His forgiveness, love and eternal life. He arose again so we could be in right standing with God, just as though we never have sinned. It is the greatest gift in life, Jesus Christ.
From someone who wrestled (and continues to wrestle) with equal parts materialist skepticism and convicted curiosity: know that Christ is ready to answer the call when you are ready to make it.
As Christian, it’s always fascinating to hear others stories. It’s really indescribable. That’s why we want to share this with others. We just want others to experience this joy and peace that comes from Christ.
I've watched 10 minutes of this and am blown away by how respectful your presentation is. Most uploads about Kensington have the feel of cheap voyeurism, but this is classy, humane and informative. Kudos to you from Center City Philly.
Great comment and “Agreed!” from me. I’ve slowly come to expect it from this channel - one of only a handful that keeps people’s humanity at the forefront and doesn’t push an agenda on us (almost like journalism is supposed to do?). What a breath of fresh air! Glad to watch alongside you.
how about you vote to clean your shit towns up this is disgusting
@@andyafranks Thanks and agreed brother. Just subscribed to the channel. Great watching with you.
If you’re new you should check out the rest of his channel. His videos about the US-Mexico border are some of the most interesting I’ve seen about the topic and he does such a good job of presenting a broad topic from numerous perspectives
You people run around watching addict videos too, then have to make some stupid comment about “sick voyeur.” Look at you peeping around! Hypocrite do gooder.
In my 10 years of commenting on RUclips vlogs, this is the first one I simply cannot find words for...
Democrats! Democrat policies! Those are the words to use to explain this nightmare!
I agree, words just won’t do it justice. Unbelievable video.
That's why I used hearts💯
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Buddy is a living hero. Not easy to take a full time life of service in the most horrible conditions. Godspeed.
This was really tough to watch, but the hope that The Rock is bringing to Kensington is incredible
tough to watch peter with his pro police state propoganda.
@@noob.168 Keep voting democrat, Kensington will soon be in every city USA.
Fake hope
De-industrialization is what to Kensington. Unless that is talked about few will grasp what happened there.
Thank you Peter for exposing this. Best video you ever done. Heartbreaking, but love The Rock. Beautiful testimonies.
Peter thank you. I am a retired law enforcement professional and currently a professor in crime and public policy in Los Angeles and randomly came across this piece. I will be using it as a policy paper topic. Thank you so much for your work. We need this to highlight what is happening and how our policies as compassionate as they may be on paper are failing at helping our most vulnerable populations.
Oh I wish I was in your class to learn and go through this with others… would love to know what it is.
That’s exactly right, we are compassionate people and understand to an extent but what’s on paper is not helping in reality and this is what they won’t show. These politicians and people passing these laws need to be dragged here for a good 24hours to oversee what’s going on and see how compassionate they want to be afterwards. Pure BS!
Enablers keep people sick! Your policies are not compassionate! Tolerance only multiplies addiction, as you can see. Your policies are insane and only keep people sick, make for a nightmare life for the addict and for everyone around them. These BS policies just lead to a horrible life and early death!
I don't think a video has ever moved me to tears like this one has
I'm grown ass man 40yo, never had a drug problems in my life and i have watched most if not all of your videos, but this was one of the hardest to watch videos.
I'm 47 and male also!
@@Micklundcongratulations!
Agree, 48 here. This was tough.
What was shown was a handful of dopers. Watch other videos before they cleaned up. There were at least 150 addicts at one time nodding off EVERYDAY at KnA
not even a bottle of wine?
Peter, that scene with the child waiting for the mom almost had me in tears. I almost couldn't watch anymore. So sad to see. Heartbreaking man.
My thoughts exactly
That child was me at one time in Kensington💛 as children of addicts most of us grow up to learn to never touch drugs in the same way our parents did💛 so there are positives!
@@GiGiBushawww thank u for sharing that story,it truly gives hope that maybe these kids aren't doomed for life,but will get out,be healthy, happy,etc ❤ proud of you!
In the richest country in the world it is pathetic
I feel awful because we know she’s seen worse and probably has been through some things 😢 that mom doesn’t deserve that baby
7 years of heroin and fentanyl I spent a decade ruining my life hoping to die and now I'm quite grateful to be alive and I hope others can find a way out 'cause there is a way it's not easy but it does make you a better person
Well done on getting clean, you should be so so proud to have overcome those addictions!! ❤🙏🏽
I'm so happy to hear this.
Congrats. I have a similar story and timeline. Just hit 3 years clean.
Have to have a filter or you can't handle that .... relationship relationship absolutely JESUS
Always trust in God ❤ You changed your life for the greater good and these people can too ❤
Thanks!
That man is a Saint he goes around that area trying to save lives and still has a positive mindset may God bless him and all his endeavors.🙏🏽
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,big rich government better watch learn,,,,,,,and help make laws for dealing drugs,,,,,,a rico act,,,,,,,,,decades to life in jail.............
@@ThomasELeClair Not going to lie that part has me angry too that it depends on who is in charge that makes a difference on how they respond to the situation it should be a universal & reasonable resolution.
What Buddy and The Rock are doing is absolutely outstanding. Giving kids an opportunity to learn discipline, work ethic and Get a trade under their belt all under one roof or organization is world beating. Truly changing the future of the youth. Superb man.
I must admit, I am truly impressed with the work THE ROCK ORGANIZATION is doing. We need more places like these in every urban city. People need an outlet where they can socialize in a positive environment. And with the HELP OF GOD!!! All is possible. GOD BLESS The Rock Organization keep up the good work.
Christ is King
@@Undaglibenglaubengloben Christ is Cringe
Why the police is just strolling by watching people shoot up like crimes are happening? why are they allowing it. soooo weird!
@@subzero07094 Christ is Love. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Praise the Lord. Amen.
@@ausermeg9428Amen 🙏
❤ this video really touched me. The Rock Ministries is a fabulous organization. Thank you to all those people who work there and helped so many people.😊
I woke up this morning feeling a little sorry for myself. But this video reminded me of just how great I have, and have always had it. My dad died when I was 8; but my mom worked hard to give me a stable, secure life filled with opportunities. Thank you Peter for sharing this. And thanks to all of the people who are making a positive difference in these people's lives.
bless
Beautifully said. Wish you and your mom all the best in life. 👏👏👏👏
Hands down, this is one of the hardest and most gut-wrenching videos on your channel. It's also your best work to date. I can't imagine how difficult it was to make this.
The way you covered this is truly remarkable. If this country truly cared about real journalism anymore you would be showered with awards. Eventually this ship will be righted, in the meanwhile keep doing gods work.
I work for one of the utility company’s in the city. It requires me to be in and around the Kensington area frequently. The situations inside some of the homes within Kensington is just as bad as the streets. Flea infestations, broken sewage pipes, animal feces, malnourished pets, etc. I’ve walked out of homes covered in fleas. I’ve witnessed animal abuse. It’s so shameful that this behavior has become so common. My heart breaks for my hometown.
I hear you. Long ago I used to install Direct TV or HBO antennas. Yeah Kensington and surrounding areas were real eye openers. I was raised in the far northeast so I wasn't accustomed to such things. I had a summer job once taking baby pictures for some photo outfit. I had an address that took me to a hole in a wall that used to be a corner general store in Kensington. I met them outside and they brought me in through that hole in the wall into what looked like a bombed out scene in a WWII movie. The sat the 3 yr old on a cardboard box that happened to be there and said take the picture. Trying to get the kid to smile they would say "smile for the man 'Fat Man' " That's what they called him as his name! Yeah, like you I have seen animals locked in feces loaded basements, severe hoarding and on and on. It is truly unbelievable.
I can't even imagine.
Are you saying we should rewrite a new declaration of independance?
That's crazy stay safe out there
YOU NEED TO CALL ANIMAL CONTROL ABOUT ANIMAL ABUSE NO ANIMAL SHOULD SUFFER BECAUSE OF THIS MESS THE WORDS OF ABE LINCOLN THOSE WHO SEE CRUELTY AND DO NOTHING THEY THEMSELVES ARE CRUEL or call me at 718 426 1896 e me at etstakeawalk11372@gmail.com ASAP
Peter, this might be one of your best videos I've ever seen. Simply because you're covering the bright spot in such a terrible place. Plenty of people drive up and down and walk up and down those streets making videos of the atrocities but your video shows that there's hope there. The Rock and it's people are such a breath of fresh air.
I just donated to The Rock ministries. I wasn't a Christian for 38 years of my life, but then in 2019, I gave my life to Jesus. I know many reading this will eye roll, believe me, I used to eye roll too. I was a militant atheist, turned atheist, then stoic for most of my adult life until I went through a mental health crisis while in the military. My stoicism didn't prepare me to handle the stress and I was prescribed some of the worst anti-depressants and sleep medicines. I can definitely see how people fall into drug abuse, so I'm empathetic to many people in this video despite how hard it to watch. Thank God for The Rock ministry. So much hope and apostolic work being done.
Thanks for sharing your story. God bless you.
Thanks for sharing that, and thanks for spreading love with your donation by helping good people help people. What’s your story on finding god/jesus? I know you said you had a crisis but what exactly made you start believing and turn into religion after being an atheist for so long?
@@MrDubstepPromoter my wife had been a Christian our whole marriage so I would sometimes go to Church with her. Most of the Churches and Christians were the stereotypes of people I didn't want to be associated with. But then we started going to some good Churches that started breaking down my barrier. I don't have a silver bullet moment at the lowest of lows or anything like that. Just small positive steps of the Lord revealing himself to me and the perils of stoicism.
@BrandonJacobson Listen, what does boxing have to do with Christ? I understand punching a bag for exercise but not another person.
"...no brawler, no striker" for example, are the requirements to be a deacon in the church. Also, Buddy does not know and is not teaching the truth about salvation which is found in these verses: Acts 2:38
Acts 22:16 Mark 16:16 Revelation 1:5
Hebrews 9:17*
1 Corinthians 11 (head covering)
You can call me a legalist- false doctrine/man-made doctrine is deadly.
@@memoryrinehart there isn't a righteous person on earth ....how dare you cast judgement on such a good man and call yourself a Christian ?
Hi Peter, my son turned me on to your channel and I have enjoyed them, but this one was special. I am a Pastor down in Savannah, GA and Buddy is doing an awesome job for the Kingdom of God.
To everyone who beat their addiction. I am proud of you! This video just broke my heart. Sad sad sad. Thank you Peter for showing us the real world.
Buddy, my late brother opened up a children's ministry right out of prison. We ran all over Kensington, 5th and Allegheny, all the way to west and north Philly. You may have actually knew him. Born and raised 19140!! Love my people. Thank you Buddy!
I cried tears of sadness and tears of hope throughout this video. God bless the dedication and love of the leaders of the Rock and prayers for all who come through their doors. Excellent work, peter.
Me too I love my people and we are being poisoned for years
✨️🕊Delafé Testimonies🕊✨️
Thank You Peter for the great work making this video , regardless of believe , the works Buddy and the whole team are doing it the work of humble heroes . I’m 38 years clean , here in the UK and what USA has today we will have here in the UK within a decade if not the beginnings of the epidemic already . Thank you for such diligent and professional reporting . David
Man Buddy is an angel. Love seeing people like this who just want to help others and you can tell it brings him true happiness. God bless brother.
I live a very quiet and low income life in the country, far removed from this situation. I have fresh air and space and feel like I've succeeded by getting out of a bad upbringing. But I wonder if me making a good clean country life for myself is enough. I've taken care of myself, but I can't reach anyone like these guys are. These guys are soldiers and angels.
It is enough. If it suits you and you’re happy, it’s enough ♥️
There’s always opportunities to give back. Even in your small community. There’s always at risk youth etc.
Buddy is truly doing Gods work. So much respect to him and his entire ministry.
“Lord, where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon where there is doubt, faith where there is despair, hope where there is darkness, light where there is sadness, joy.”
Peter I’m a social worker and I just want to say thank you for the important work you and your wife do. I can’t imagine how exhausting and devastating this must of been but know that it is so appreciated.
Beautiful to see fellow Christians practicing what they preach -- no church or books required, just good people caring and doing honest hard work. Love to see it!
.....................................................amen........................................................................................
Nothing wrong with church and books
Tbf you get to the point of practicing with heart when you don't miss out on the books and in Church.
Don't be foolish. The churches and the books are important parts of him practicing what he preaches. Did you even watch the video? Come on.
As long as they keep feeding them and clothing them these people will never leave
When I clicked in this video, i figured it was just another Kensington tale of woe. How far off I was! This is a ray of sunshine and hope! God bless you, and thank you.
I agree!!! ❤
Buddy seriously gives me faith in humanity
Looks cleaner this time.
He does give me hope. But he’s literally 1 out of millions of people I see voting for this or ignoring the world around them.
Great Video. I met Buddy at a conference recently at Calvery Chapel in Orrington, Maine that has their own drug rehab program. Buddy spoke on his work and on the challenges of people in recovery . His words were both tear-invoking and awe-inspiring. He's a man on an amazing mission. I wish him and everyone there at the Rock great success.
Clearly what he’s doing works for a lot of people; how do you square with all of the Christian people who’ve endured horrible circumstances and then passed away. Constantly hearing “Jesus is here for you,” when I’ve seen so many believes get cancer and die painfully just doesn’t work for me or some other people. If that’s the foundation, isn’t it easily broken?
@cowmath77 , I 100% get your point and agree with you. I have questioned my faith many times due to tragic events such as losing some of the most amazing, genuine, beautiful people I had the privilege to call them my friend. I also have had many situations thar were going bad, but ended with positive result. Those experiences are what keeps my faith alive.
@@potatolew4495 so you just chose to believe knowing it’s a lie? I’m confused.
@@cowmath77
To 🐄
Every person alive today, will have died in 100 years, whether miraculously healed at times, or not. Faith in God isn't about Him making things how we want them to be. It's knowing He loves us, and changes us spiritually on the inside, to have His love in us to live out our days.
Though Jesus is the Light of the World, He died. (&came back to life) ALL will eventually die. We believe because Jesus is Life, we will live with Him.
May God answer ALL the questions of your heart.❤
@@joleneandrus6667 yeah see I’m looking for a reason to have faith, not some rambling nonsense.
This is one of the most incredible videos on youtube. Not only that, but the story you've weaved into this is beautiful. Ending the video in that Mexican restaurant is a poignant end. And Buddy is an amazing man.
This documentary was so much emotions, from seeing Kensington and the people who were zombies laying on the street, the little girl and her mom. I didn't expect to be filled with so much hope, joy and happiness by the end. Thank God for The Rock and all of the people within the organization. What an incredible organization.
Although I’m not a Christian, I’m Buddhist, I have so much respect for Buddy and The Rock! THIS is how we as people of faith must conduct ourselves. Being directly in society, supporting our communities and sharing the truth with people… which is the limitless potential each person has no matter what cards they’re dealt. We could either look away, or help folks transform their suffering. That’s the true testament to our beliefs. Thank you Peter for shedding light on Kensington.
WOW
This is worse than my Ukraine
This is what your Democrats are doing to my Ukraine too
Thanks Ameirka
Buddha wasn’t a Christian but Jesus would have made a good Buddhist
Thanks, Peter!!! Greetings from Budapest, Hungary!!!
Peter, my family is in a constant state of recovery, having gone through rehabs, programs, religions. My daughter & son in law are clean from the heavy dope but still use other things like marijuana and alcohol. I will be sharing this video with my whole family tonight! Thank you!
9 years ago, I was an I v drug user, and Jesus Christ rescued me. There is only hope in Jesus. Praise God for The Rock ministries. The man told Peter I have Jesus, and it was powerful. I'm going to finish watching the video. Only 16 minutes in and weeping for these people. Help, Lord!
❤🙏
Praise God ❤
Thank God.❤❤
Praise the Lord you're His!
I'm not going to watch the video because I'd cry my eyes out. I'm thankful that Jesus rescued you...
An oasis is defined as “a fertile spot in a desert, where water is found.”
Buddy has created an oasis whose life-sustaining source is hope. Thank you, as always, Peter, for opening my eyes to this desert of unimaginable hopelessness, and the oasis in its midst.
Beautifully put!
I am an recovering addict. Last hit of heroin I had was year 2000.
Rules are exactly what they need. I can honestly say being strung out, addicts won't want to change. They're incapable of making that life changing choice. Then it's the long process of recovery. With people who help them one step at a time. Every hurdle and struggle, they have that support system they can count on till they strong and finally believe in themselves.
It's a massive job.
@@haydengodbold6569 Congratulations on your clean time. You're right in many ways. Up until a few months ago there wasn't even rules via the cops. People just slamming dope wherever they wanted. XYLAZINE changed every aspect of detoxing to sobriety. The withdrawal from that horse tranquilizer they say is horrific and that's from the mouths of long time heroin users. Even if you get clean there's only two rehabs that will take anyone with open wounds. 100% of fentanyl has tranq in it. Thus what worked in the old days ain't now. Again, congratulations.
Tranq ain’t a drug! It’s changing the dynamic!
@@MrReymoclif714 Technically it is a drug. A sedative drug used by veterinarians. Definitely not a drug to be used by humans. Absolutely agree it's changed the dynamics, and I believe 💯.that it's by design.
That Tranq/Xylazine comes right from BIG PHARMA, which is BIG CHEM, and is a Designer Drug.
How so?
Wow, just so shocking how bad things are in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia. I got to tip my hat to Buddy...you can tell his heart is really for the neighborhood. Keep up the good work.
THIS IS YOUR BEST ONE YET .
I, also, am not religious. But I gotta say, it is really refreshing to see people so passionate about something so positive. It doesn't matter to me what they believe in. It is obvious that it makes them better people, and to me, that matters more than anything.
i am religious when i go to bed and thank god there is peace in my bedroom . grow big in amsterdam and need to jump over the heroin addickt . sad things can move people foreword but when people helping eachother and sweep the streets , the gangs are gone !!!!!!!!!!1
Don’t be afraid to seek God. No one was more surprised than me to find out that he was real when I was outside my body.
WOW Peter, this episode was a Grand Slam. It was so refreshing seeing real people caring about their fellow citizens. The Rock gives me hope in Humanity.
This pastor is so articulate and has a lot of wisdom. He truly has a heart for humanity. Keep up doing God's work.
Pastors are liars frauds and grifters
Wow so sad. Great video Peter. Buddy is the Rock. If only the world had more Buddy's.
This was just HEARTBREAKING!!!! That poor little girl waiting for her mother to finish her business, just PITIFUL!!!! Buddy is DOING AMAZING WORK, but it has to be OVERWHELMING to him at times!!!! And you're right Buddy - "Jesus NEVER Fails"!!!! Thanks Peter!!!!
He said “no child should see what they see here “ and at the beginning “in the 70s my brother and his 5 friends saw a guy shooting up and they all became drug addicts “ I don’t think they are making ANY progress !
Push harm reduction methods to line the pockets of city council members as they are the ones that pick who provides harm reduction paraphernalia. Provide poor educational facilities that limit the populations ability to read and do basic math, while increasing the cities educational funding. Use the state run media to promote a one party platform to inform the uneducated population that this is what is best for them. The cycle repeats as the people in power have no term limits and get rich while their salaries are minimal.
@vicm6561 That's SAD!!!! I'm sure it makes you SAD as well!!!!
CPS needs to take the child into care and give her a loving home.
@@snotbubbles3276is harm reduction is a very complicated subject
I was in tears with this video. I could see your anguish and anger in this video, Peter. Thank you for showing the truth, once again.
We all need a Buddy in our life. He is a beacon of optimism and hope. God bless his work for the community.
My son Derick, last Friday was a year clean. He's an amazing man. Please keep him in your prayers ❤
❤
My bf died of a pain pill overdose I I found him on our new apartment couch I myself struggle with addiction I'm no longer on the pain pills I sought help shortly after he passed . It's been 10 and a half yrs and it feels like yesterday everyday at times. I love him I wish I new what I know now. His name was Derrick and he was the smile that lit a room the laugh would make you laugh even when the day was somber. I miss him so much! I'm glad your Derrick has gotten help this is an evil evil drug. Ty for sharing
i don't give a sht and prayers won't help anyone
have a mediocre day
@@ShariDLamas I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless you and comfort you ❤️
@@93Beefcake Wow! Heart broken for you. You just don't know.❤️
Saving journalism one video at a time. This is an amazing piece. Thank you!
So great to see all the people in recovery in the comments. Gives me a lot of hope that we can all make it..
I am 69 and my husband is 70. We both grew up in Kensington. Although our families left many years ago I would like to say back when we were young Kensington Ave was a wonderful place and Christmas was magical.❤️
Your generation was the only generation to experience an American that was great as a child, teen and adult. It was bad before you were born and it got bad right around the time you became elderly and that's because we are under a foreign occupation. People didn't pay attention for far to many decades and now they own everything
Yes mam, I’m 61, worked in McDonald’s and Rite Aide and knew every store owner in 1979-1981. I was happy to be there, and my heat aches, the city corralled the addicted in Kensington and they are trying to contain it there.
As long as you had a wonderful time I guess that’s all that matters right? Fuck these people right? Who cares about them! 😑
How the heck did it turn into THIS? and when...
Back before malls in the 1960s we all went Christmas shopping in Kensington😊
I'm a Christian from the UK and I've seen most of your videos Peter but this one broke me to tears. I'm so shocked that the drug problem is so high and easily accessed in America. I pray those that can help quickly and make the area safer for the community and children. Buddy and his team are doing an incredible job despite what they're facing each day. Thank you for sharing this and having those conversations. ❤❤❤
Mexico and China are just flooding us with this stuff to make us weak
Its terribly sad ive from ohio i can name 80 ppl i know family friends associates that have passed. Even more that I know of from growing up going to school.
Yet my daughter with systemic lupus can’t get a single prescription pain pill per day. This is the globalist working with the cartels. Europe is done and gone - been gone. They want the US next.
Seeing people openly doing drugs in the public while the sun is up is a cry out for help
@@devpzextra I'm so sorry to hear this. It breaks my heart.
This video is one of the best things i've seen in a long time. This was AMAZING! Thank you! 🙏
I'm in a recovery center just outside of philly, 90 days clean myself. Seems like we loose people back to that neighborhood on a weekly basis. It is an epidemic. Thanks so much for covering it Peter.
Congrats on your 90 days !!! You can do it : )
Proud of you! Keep it up! You will never regret it.
I struggled with addiction for 14 years before the best thing happened. I got a 3 year prison sentence. No matter how you get clean anyone can do it but they definitely need the support. Thank you for what you guys do and thanks for sharing this.
YES ! Democrats won’t put anyone in jail but when you talk to prisoners they will tell you “prison saved my life “ we are going to need more prisons !
That’s the worst, mf that place.
Jesus took a hold of me in 1983 and has never let go. I resisted, he persisted. He can change your life forever. I am now 67 years old and I am still his child. God bless The Rock ministries and those that run it.
Amen
God protect you.
That’s awesome, God is our refuge from this horrible world.
Thank you for your testimony. The world needs to hear what Jesus can do if you invite Him into your life.