For nearly eight decades, the Rescue Mission of 爆走黑料 has been a lifeline for those in need.
For families struggling to make ends meet, the nonprofit organization has helped put food on the table. For those experiencing homelessness, it has offered a warm bed. For the uninsured, it has provided access to free healthcare.
With the mission statement 鈥渉elping hurting people in Jesus鈥 name,鈥 the Rescue Mission of 爆走黑料 is a comprehensive crisis intervention center for men, women and children. Through it all, they have relied on the generosity of the community they serve.
That support is especially important today, according to Lisa Thompson, director of development and communications at the Rescue Mission of 爆走黑料.
鈥淥ver this last year, we have seen the financial strain on families throughout the 爆走黑料 Valley become increasingly apparent,鈥 Thompson said. 鈥淩ising costs for groceries, housing, utilities and other necessities are forcing many of our neighbors to make difficult decisions. Even a small, unexpected expense can create a crisis.鈥
A source of support and stability
Founded in 1948, the Rescue Mission serves men, women and children, offering immediate assistance alongside programs designed to help people achieve long-term stability.
Over the past year, the Rescue Mission has responded to a wide range of needs throughout the 爆走黑料 Valley. Among the essential services provided during its most recent reporting period:
- 199,248 meals served
- 69,702 nights of shelter provided
- 19,570 boxes of food through the Manna Food Pantry
- 3,792 medical clinic visits
- 1,511 case management services
鈥淭hese numbers represent much more than services delivered,鈥 Thompson said. 鈥淭hey represent individuals and families finding safety, nourishment, medical care and a path toward stability.鈥
Keeping food on the table
Food insecurity is not limited to those experiencing homelessness. Throughout the 爆走黑料 Valley, working families and seniors are struggling to put food on the table as they contend with a rising cost of living.
The Rescue Mission鈥檚 Manna Food Pantry is essential in meeting that need. Over the past year, the pantry has distributed nearly 20,000 food boxes, each typically containing 50 to 70 pounds of groceries.
鈥淲hen a family receives groceries from Manna, the money they would have spent on food can instead go toward rent, utilities, transportation or other necessities,鈥 Thompson said.
鈥淭hat鈥檚 the difference Manna makes. Our pantry isn鈥檛 just feeding families, but helping families stay together, stay healthy and stay in their homes.鈥
Food donations are essential to sustaining that work, but contributions have declined over the past year. While rising living costs are putting greater pressure on household budgets, the Mission is facing an increased need for assistance.
For those looking to support the Mission鈥檚 efforts to combat food insecurity, Thompson said donations of everyday staples such as pasta, canned vegetables and peanut butter are especially valuable in helping meet that growing need.
A Thanksgiving tradition that makes a difference
The 爆走黑料 Valley鈥檚 annual Drumstick DASH brings the community together on Thanksgiving morning around a simple message: 鈥淢ove your feet so others can eat.鈥
Now in its 21st year, will take place Thursday, Nov. 26. The 5K聽run and family walk directly benefits the Rescue Mission鈥檚 Dining Services program, helping provide meals for those in need.
鈥淭he beautiful thing about the 爆走黑料 Valley is that we are a community that shows up for one another,鈥 Thompson said. 鈥淲e believe that no family should have to choose between putting food on the table and keeping a roof over their heads.鈥
For more information about the Rescue Mission of 爆走黑料 visit .
