At Springs Rescue Mission, we try to be as transparent and honest as possible. We want our donors, supporters and the Colorado Springs community to understand what we do, why we do it and how we get it done. We often get questions on a variety of topics and thought it might be useful to share with you some answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Here are some answers to the most common FAQs about SRM:

Where does SRM get its funding?

More than 90 percent of Springs Rescue Mission’s annual budget is generously donated by individuals, businesses, churches and other organizations. While SRM receives some local, state and federal contributions, faithful givers in the local community are the backbone of the organization’s fundraising strategy. We’re able to help the most vulnerable men and women in Colorado Springs thanks to your compassion and care.

What does “low-barrier” mean?

Although the exact definition of “low-barrier” varies greatly depending on who you ask, it essentially means that the requirements for entry are limited or minimal. With a focus on “harm reduction,” low-barrier shelters encourage homeless individuals to seek resources by eliminating those obstacles.“The overall thought process is to get as many people off the streets as possible,” said Robert Farmer, director of SRM's housing programs. “We open our doors, hold our arms out and everyone is welcome to come in. We’ve tried to remove every reason that might keep someone from coming to the shelter: no identification required, pets are welcome, we don’t do background checks, sobriety is not a requirement.”No person is denied any service based on their race, color, creed, sexual orientation, gender or nationality.

Are there any requirements?

While many homeless shelters across the U.S. have strict rules and rigid requirements, Springs Rescue Mission's low-barrier approach means that things work a little differently.

But low-barrier doesn't mean low standards.

Although Springs Rescue Mission has eliminated barriers to make shelter more accessible to those in need, shelter policy does prohibit the possession and use of drugs, alcohol and weapons in its facilities. There is also an expectation that guests obey the law and behave in a manner that is respectful, non-threatening and not overly disruptive.

Do you have to be a Christian?

It’s a common misconception that Springs Rescue Mission requires its guests and others seeking services to profess faith, attend chapel or listen to sermons. The organization is, however, faith-based and its operations are guided by Biblical principles and philosophy. The story of the "Good Samaritan" is among the most influential when it comes to how the Mission approaches serving the poor, hungry, homeless and addicted men and women of Colorado Springs.In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus shares the parable of the “Good Samaritan” and commissions Christians to not only love God whole-heartedly, but to share God’s love with everyone they meet. Springs Rescue Mission and its staff is committed to fulfilling Jesus’ charge to love and care for the beaten down and dejected  — the one others have ignored.

How do Facebook fundraisers work?

Facebook Fundraisers have been a huge help to nonprofits. They make it easy for donors to give, knowing that 100 percent of their contributions will go to the cause or organization of their choice.

But — as with everything these days — donors must use caution.

While most Facebook users who create fundraisers for Springs Rescue Mission (or another nonprofit) are well-intentioned and sincere, there are also scammers out there. To make sure your money is going to the right place, here are some quick tips:

• only donate to Facebook fundraisers created by friends, acquaintances or the nonprofits themselves;
• pay close attention to titles, descriptions and photos;
• make sure the fundraiser is categorized as a “nonprofit,” not a “personal cause”;
• the description directly below the title should say “fundraiser for Springs Rescue Mission [or other nonprofit]”;
• the donate button should say “donate to nonprofit,” not “donate to personal cause.”

If you're unsure whether a Facebook fundraiser is legitimate, feel free to give us a call or donate online. We're happy to help!

What is the best way to help?

In recent years, donors have helped expand the Mission’s campus and programs — transforming lives and helping thousands of people overcome homelessness, hunger and addiction.

We encourage anyone interested in financial contributions to sign up and become a Good Samaritan Sponsor. The GSS program is based on monthly giving, which ensures Springs Rescue Mission’s sustained financial health. Monthly donors are integral to SRM’s mission and help us continue to serve our neighbors in need with food, shelter, clothing, case management, addiction recovery and myriad other programs designed to help people get back on their feet.

What about bathrooms?

Lately, we've received many questions about the number of bathrooms on the Springs Rescue Mission campus.

Our Welcome Center, Samaritan's Kitchen and Dining Hall, Resource Center and each shelter facility have a number of restrooms. In fact, the Resource Center is also equipped with showers and laundry facilities.

"There are bathrooms available every hour of the day. ... Every single bathroom gets cleaned every single day, and some of them get cleaned multiple times per day. ... We are proud of the service we offer to people with no other bathroom options." - Tyler Peoples, Senior Director of Work

Subscribe to our blog to learn more about Springs Rescue Mission and the people we serve — people who have seen tough times but are committed to breaking the cycles of homelessness, hunger and addiction in their lives. We see stories of hope and transformation lived out every day, and we’d love to share them with you.