May was truly a month to celebrate!

A lot happened last month: Springs Rescue Mission started a much-needed “Drive-Thru Pantry” for neighbors in need and low-income families; residents and staff of the New Life Program (men's residential addiction recovery) celebrated as four men graduated after a year of hard work; and UCCS nursing students were recognized and awarded for their work serving shelter guests with a "foot clinic."Oh yeah, and the May edition of SRM's bimonthly newsletter hit the shelves!

Here are a few highlights from May:

May newsletter tells stories of recovery and hope

Vince is known around the Springs Rescue Mission campus for his jokes, ready smile and easygoing personality. But his smiles haven't always come easily. In fact, his life has been touched by tragedy after tragedy. Robert's career took him from Iraq to the White House; but when he retired from the Army, he was looking for a new way to use his skills for good. Check out the May 2020 newsletter and read their amazing stories — and more!

SRM starts 'Drive-Thru Pantry' program

On May 29, Springs Rescue Mission hosted its first “Drive-Thru Pantry” event out of its warehouse at 111 W. Las Vegas St. Boxes of groceries were given to 70 households in desperate need. Neighbors receiving the food were especially thankful for pantry staples such as shelf-stable milk, peanut butter and cereal. This program will extend through the end of June — every Friday from noon to 3 p.m.

Matt graduates the New Life Program

Matt's friends and co-residents in the New Life Program find him inspirational. At his graduation last month, they all talked about how he has worked to be a better father and a better man, his pursuit of Christ and how he chooses to be joyful even in chaotic situations. As his counselor put it, "Matt has learned to carry his cross."Matt chose Hebrews 12:11-13 as his graduation verse:"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 'Make level paths for your feet,' so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed."

UCCS students recognized for service at SRM

Once a quarter, Springs Rescue Mission and UCCS students Nikki Bloch and Tosin Adebiyi host a foot clinic for guests on the SRM campus. Because foot health is key to overall health, these foot clinics are essential to keeping guests healthy and comfortable.It’s also a reminder of the Biblical example Jesus set for us when he washed his disciple’s feet (John 13).While guest’s health would be rewarding enough, we’re proud to announce that University of Colorado School of Medicine has honored these efforts with a PEAK Impact Award. They look for three PEAK teams that have “dug deep, navigated obstacles, and culminated in meaningful outcomes for our community.”

Bobby graduates New Life Program

Last month, we celebrated as Bobby became the newest graduate of the New Life Program at Springs Rescue Mission. Bobby's friends and fellow residents talked about his consistency of discipline, his faith through trials and how he stayed true to himself during the program. While they spoke, they often told the newest residents, "use him as your example for this program."Bobby's graduation verse is 1 Corinthians 15:58:"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the LORD, because you know that your labor in the LORD is not in vain."

Paul graduates New Life Program

We rejoiced last month when Paul graduated from the New Life Program. His fellow residents and mentors praised him for his persistence and his determination. They spoke of how he earned their respect, could make anyone laugh and was well-loved in the NLP house.Paul chose Psalm 23:1-3 as his graduation verse:"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake."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.