October was a wonderfully busy month at Springs Rescue Mission! The month began with the exciting opening of Samaritan Coffee @ 225, and we cheered as guests made progress in their spiritual lives and job training during the month. Plus, guests were brought in from the bitter cold during one of the first winter storms. Thank you for making this possible with your generosity!

Here are a few highlights from October:

Samaritan Coffee @ 225 officially opens, aims to transform lives through coffee

On October 1st we celebrated the official grand opening of Samaritan Coffee @ 225, a new social enterprise between Springs Rescue Mission and First Presbyterian Church. Through a unique hiring program, the coffee shop is already changing lives. Lives like Matt's. Just over a year ago, Matt was at a low point in his life. Now, he has a new lease on life as one of the first baristas at the shop.Read Matt's story, plus find out more about this special collaboration between SRM and First Pres at the link below.READ MORE

Four guests make the important choice to be baptized

We rejoiced as Betty, Gerald, Jimmy, and Scott made the decision to be baptized by our on-campus chaplain. Congratulations on taking this important step in your faith!"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” - Matthew 28:19-20

Renno graduates from the New Life Program

"This day isn't about me, it's about what God has done for me." With those words, Renno graduated from the New Life Program at Springs Rescue Mission in late October. At the ceremony, his friends and co-residents talked about his abiding and inspirational faith, and encouraged him as he starts this new chapter of life. Both outgoing President and CEO Larry Yonker and incoming President and CEO Jack Briggs prayed for him, as well.Renno chose Psalm 139:1 as his graduation verse: "O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me."

Work Engagement participant earns her Food Handler's Certification

Last month, Jan became the first Work Engagement participant to get her Food Handler's Certification. This certification shows she has been trained on food safety, temperature, and correct storage. Not only has she gained important knowledge for the food service industry, but she's also gained newfound confidence and joy through the course. There are currently two more Work Engagement participants who will be receiving their certificates soon. Congratulations to Jan!

Neighbors stay safe during a bitterly cold winter storm

During the winter storm that rushed in on October 27th, hundreds of neighbors came in from the bitter cold and sought shelter at Springs Rescue Mission. Here, they found a warm bed and a safe place to rest while the storm raged outside and temperatures plummeted. Thanks to your generosity and support, we were able to shelter everyone who came to us for shelter. Please continue to pray for our Colorado Springs neighbors to make the choice to come in out of the cold in the coming months, and for their health and safety.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.