Everywhere I go, people ask about homelessness. Some believe it’s getting worse in our city, although the data might not always back that up. Perception shapes reality.

Even if the numbers are rising, one thing remains true: our work is about helping individuals move forward despite the noise.

Yet, people still ask: Who’s responsible? What should be done?

I’m honored that Springs Rescue Mission is considered a national leader in this work and grateful for the investment and trust that have made that possible. Cities across the country look to us for guidance, and many hope to replicatethe success of our programmatic campus.

Yet, at the local level, the debate continues.

For some, we do too much. For others, we do too little. But here’s the truth: SRM isn’t here to debate homelessness— we’re here to help people.

For those on the streets, policy discussions don’t matter. These neighbors in need — men and women struggling with poverty, homelessness, and addiction — aren’t looking for a debate; they’re looking for a way forward.

What matters to them is being seen, valued, and empowered with the opportunity to rebuild. They don’t need more talk. They need action, connection, and a real path of hope: a path toward better health, employment, and stable housing.

SRM’s Individual-First Approach

Springs Rescue Mission serves one person at a time thanks to the generous support of this community — one donor at a time.

We serve the men and women of Colorado Springs on a large scale (around 600on average daily), but our programs and services are individual-focused. Our role is to help guests rediscover their God-givenvalue, worth, and dignity. We want those we serve to flourish in every way.

What You Made Possible Last Year:

·        6,000 unique individuals walked through our gates seeking help;

·        More than 3,000people found a warm, safe place to sleep;

·        On the coldest nights, SRM expanded its capacity to serve nearly 500 people;

·        Through job training programs, SRM issued more food handler’s licenses than any other entity in El Paso County, setting trainees up for better employment options;

·        Every month, nearly 50 people graduated into the next phase of programming — navigating mental health, addiction recovery, employability, and stable housing.

These numbers are significant. But behind every number is a real person with a real story.

One Person at a Time

Real change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes building relationships, trust, and good habits.

Instead of debating “the issue of homelessness” at a broad level, we look our guests in the eye and remind them of their God-given worth. We call them by their names, sit with them, listen to their stories, and walk alongside them step by step.

We encourage all guests on our campus to take advantage of SRM’s robust programs and work to connect them with more than 25 on-campus partner agencies. No single organization can do it all: but when we work together, lives are transformed.

Meet Rilly

Rilly was born with a physical deformity that made stable employment nearly impossible. Eventually, he became homeless and found his way to Springs Rescue Mission.

Because of donor support, our team was able to invest in Rilly’s future. Through job training and behavioral health counseling, he rebuilt his confidence. Although faith wasn’t a big part of his life, the values he learned helped him see that he had worth, value, and a place in the world.

Last week, Rilly graduated — with new skills, a new job, and a place to call home.

This Is What We Do.

We can’t promise to "solve" homelessness. We’re not the silver bullet or the answer to every problem. But we will continue to meet people where they are and help them find their way home.

Thank you for standing with us. Your support and trust make this possible.