Because of the outstanding support of our neighbors and community, August was a full month at Springs Rescue Mission. More than 700 neighbors found the shelter, meals, and resources they desperately needed, and it’s all thanks to you! Scroll down to find read more of the highlights of August, plus read Henry’s story of reconnecting with his family.In August, we were thrilled to have multiple visits from generous and talented community partners. BombBomb graciously provided lunch to hundreds of hungry neighbors, and the teams from Four by Brother Luck and the Lucky Dumpling made 500 delicious turkey wraps for our shelter guests. Both meals were a big hit with the guests!Thanks to you, more than a dozen neighbors are no longer homeless! Eighteen men and women found housing through Springs Rescue Mission in August, and it’s only possible because of the generous support and prayers of the Colorado Springs community. Across the entire shelter program, we provided 9,477 bed nights to 734 unique shelter guests for a nightly average of 306 guests per night.Marlon’s smile never left his face as he graduated from the New Life Program. As his fellow residents lined up to share their words of encouragement, it was clear he’d had an impact on everyone in the program. Marlon is known for being an encourager and motivator, an inspiration to others, and a very genuine man who radiates joy. “I’m happy,” he said during the ceremony. “Truly, 100 percent. For the first time, I’m happy.” Marlon chose Proverbs 31:9 as his graduation verse: “Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”More than 80 guests who currently call Springs Rescue Mission home are employed and work more than 16 hours per week. In fact, the average employed guest works 34 hours per week and earns an average $12.12 per hour. With an average monthly pay of just $1785 (pre-tax), this makes it extremely hard to find affordable housing.Kenton and Charles, both New Life Program residents and Kenny, a shelter guest, became some of the latest graduates from the “Careers in Construction” program in early August. The men spent two and a half months learning the construction trade, and each earned their OSHA card. Their final project was to build the bench pictured. We’re thankful for this program, which is made possible by the Housing and Building Association of Colorado Springs as well as the Pikes Peak Workforce Center.Your generosity helped Henry reconnect with his family.
Henry* came to the Resource Center, asking to be sent to the hospital because he was in excruciating pain. He didn’t think he would live much longer due to his untreated late-stage cancer. One of the caseworkers sat with him until help arrived and asked what she could do to help. Henry responded that he hasn’t seen or heard from his daughters (who both live out-of-state) in years but would like to reconnect with them.After Henry went to the emergency room, the caseworker reached out to his daughters on social media. One daughter responded immediately, grateful that the caseworker had reached out and was ready to reconnect with her father. Henry may not have much time left, but his daughters will now be there for him in his time of need.
*name changed to protect privacy