Here at Portland Rescue Mission, we are blessed to be a part of some incredible stories. Whether through the lives of our New Life Ministries graduates, or the transition successes that happen in our Connect Ministry (part of our Pathway Ministries), it is always exciting to share some of what we call “glimmers” of God’s…
Read MoreOnce September/October rolls around here at Portland Rescue Mission, things get extra busy for our organization. The fall is a very important time of the year for giving hope and restoring life to people in need. It’s also the time of year when, as the weather begins to change, and the temperature drops, needs are…
Read MoreGary knows what it’s like to sleep outside. Cold, alone and afraid. He remembers the gnawing pain of hunger so strong that it kept him awake at night. “I’ve been so hungry. One time it was 3:00 AM and I knocked on somebody’s door begging for food. It was just a piece of bread, but…
Read MoreFor those who participate in our Connect Ministry at Portland Rescue Mission, one of the main reasons they enter the program is to gain stabilization as they transition to permanent housing and/or a job. Connect is a key component of our Pathway Ministries. Our goal in helping men and women find housing inspired staff at…
Read MoreFor most people, a shower is a modern convenience – a regular part of our routine we give only a momentary thought. For others, it’s a lifeline, and one of the only things that makes them feel human again. “For men and women looking to get and hold a job, reestablish ties with friends and families,…
Read MoreAlready this summer, we’ve been scorched by some long stretches of very hot days, including last week’s record-setting temperatures when it was well over 100 degrees! Sweltering heat hits hard for men, women and children already struggling without food and shelter. Not just the literal heat that comes with the rising summertime temperatures here in the Rose City, but financial heat…
Read MoreOur dedicated staff and volunteers at Portland Rescue Mission love pouring out their hearts to serve men, women and children in need – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Each year, at the Burnside Shelter, we serve over 330,000 nutritious meals and offer over 80,000 safe nights of shelter, as well as other…
Read MoreThe night hours are some of the hardest for an addict. And at Portland Rescue Mission, our Night Ministry team sees this firsthand. Serving as both a light and a shield, Night Ministry faithfully intercedes as they provide a safe presence for the men and women in desperate need for shelter and healing. At both…
Read MoreRhea’s been “flying a sign” for two years in east Portland. “I hadn’t done it in a long time,” she says. “I didn’t think I’d ever have to do it again, ya know?” Some people’s signs tell lies to gain sympathy, but Rhea can’t make herself do that. “I just have to be honest about…
Read More“When I first lost my job, I still had my van,” says Shane. “I would drive to Washington and collect cans. I could make $100 a day.” But when Shane’s van broke down, he couldn’t afford to fix it. He lost his ability to recycle for an income. Panhandling seemed like his best option. That…
Read More