By Bill Miller | Director of Development Ministry
While a nutritious meal helps satisfy the immediate physical needs of a hungry man, woman or child, for our homeless guests it's a stepping stone to a relationship that may result in healing.
In January, Portland Rescue Mission started serving weekend lunches (in addition to the free, daily breakfast and dinners served year-round). This initiative helps fill the weekend void when many of the mid-day meal providers in downtown Portland are closed. To date, we're averaging 175 meals/day, both Saturday and Sunday. Overall, demand for meals for our homeless guests is up 21% compared to this time last year.
With expanded weekend services, more volunteers are able to be involved. There are increased opportunities to connect with a hurting person, hear their story, encourage them and introduce them to the Mission's recovery ministry. The $1.88 meal can be the investment in a person's life that draws them out of isolation and despair and into a healthy, nurturing environment where they can be all God designed them to be.
NOTE: Portland Rescue Mission recently became a Four-Star Charity based on Charity Navigator's independent assessment. This is the group's highest rating for a charity, and it's based on a nonprofit's efficiency, effectiveness and transparency in operations.
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