February was a busy and productive month at Springs Rescue Mission!

But before we get to February's highlights, we want to give you a quick update on how the current COVID-19 pandemic is impacting Springs Rescue Mission.Due to global concerns about the COVID-19 virus, Springs Rescue Mission is in emergency operations mode. We will continue to serve meals, provide shelter and offer essential programming to those in need. During this time, we are limiting community interactions on and off-campus. Our gift-in-kind donation dock will be closed until March 31 and all community events are postponed until further notice. We pray these efforts will allow us to focus our attention on guests and staff during this difficult time. Click HERE for more information about our response to the pandemic and what you can do to help.

Now, here are a few highlights from February:

Springs Rescue Mission celebrates Valentine's Day

On Feb. 14, the Samaritan's Kitchen dining room at Springs Rescue Mission was transformed into an upscale Valentine's Day dining experience for hundreds of homeless and hungry neighbors. Thanks to a collaboration with Four by Brother Luck and FoodMaven, guests were treated to a delicious prime rib dinner as they received handmade cards and candy prepared by second and third graders at Antelope Trails Elementary.

What it means to be a "low-barrier" homeless shelter

Springs Rescue Mission is a low-barrier shelter.But what exactly does that mean?“The overall thought process is to get as many people off the streets as possible. We open our doors, hold our arms out and everyone is welcome to come in,” said Robert Farmer, Guest Services Director. Click HERE for an in-depth look at the concept.

Jeff Graduates the New Life Program

Jeff graduated the New Life Program last month after a year of hard work and recovery. Residents and graduates of the program, as well as case managers, gathered to celebrate him and bear witness to his big heart, Southern charm, strong faith and commitment to sobriety. Jeff's graduation verse was 2 Corinthians 5:17, which says: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"Congratulations, Jeff!

After decades of hardship, Laron is looking up

“I got here in 2018 and went into the men’s shelter about a year ago. When I got here, I had to get over a lot of obstacles mentally and emotionally. Once I figured out how to do that, I made a 180-degree turn. Everything has changed. I had a bad attitude; I was depressed, anxious and stressed. There was so much hopelessness in my life. … Now I’m happy, my sense of humor is back, I’m listening to my music again, I’m taking classes and I’m in Work Engagement. … I’m here, and I’m going to make the best of it until I can get a job and find a place to live.” - Laron, Advanced Shelter and Work EngagementLaron's story is coming soon, so stay tuned!

The March newsletter is now online!

In the newest edition of Springs Rescue Mission's bi-monthly newsletter, you'll find stories of recovery, transformation and hope — about recovered addicts, selfless volunteers and guests looking forward to their bright futures. There's also a personal message from President & CEO Larry Yonker about Easter and what it means to him.The cover story — "A journey from abandoned child to faithful family man" — is about Jon, a 2004 graduate of the New Life Program (men's residential addiction recovery). He struggled hard through decades of abuse, drug addiction and homelessness. But now he's a successful business owner, a loving husband and father, and is committed to helping others just like him.Read more of his amazing story HERE.

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.