At our 9th annual Birthday Party for the Homeless, guests grabbed their snorkeling gear at the photo booth and dove into an underwater-themed party at The Burnside Shelter. Portland Rescue Mission values this day as one of the many opportunities we take to make sure guests feel celebrated and valued–– through a party, meal, card,…
Read MoreWomen and children are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population. In addition to those already on the street, thousands are “couch-surfing” and considered just one step away from homelessness. “Its hard out here on the streets. Its scary. I’ve put my life in danger, sleeping under the bridge where there’s nobody there…
Read MoreHeroes come in all ages and sizes. At Portland Rescue Mission, some of our biggest champions are second grade students at Oregon Episcopal School. With a heart to learn about their city and find the heroes making a change in Portland, several of the students wrote letters of gratitude to the staff at Portland Rescue…
Read MoreAlmost 70 years after John Van Diest, our founder, served home-cooked soup to hungry people facing hard times, Portland Rescue Mission holds true to that first vision. Begin by meeting people’s most urgent needs. Show them that they matter, that they are loved by God. They are not alone. Then, as hope emerges in their…
Read MoreRecovery is a journey, and one that takes time—A journey in trusting again, in surrendering, in persevering. Each man and woman in our New Life Recovery program will probably tell you that the journey isn’t easy, but so worth it––worth becoming the new person they are today. Leslie* shared this letter recently with the…
Read MoreSandi Patty, the most awarded female artist in Contemporary Christian Music, was coming through town. Traveling for her Forever Grateful Farewell Tour, she stopped in Portland to lead worship for her beloved fans one last time. Mission Bar-B-Que* staff had the honor of catering for her band and crew. Little did we know…
Read MoreNo one expects to become homeless. The truth is, homelessness can happen to anyone.* Clara, at 87 years old, received a notice of a 62% rent increase, pricing her out of housing. “When she got the notice, thankfully I was there. She just broke down,” said her daughter Vena. “She lived there a long…
Read MoreThe motto and heartbeat of Melody’s Angels is, “Stay humble, be kind, and spread love.” Melody is a long time friend of Portland Rescue Mission, and more importantly, a friend to those we serve. You’ll find her serving a Sunday meal each month with a smile, greeting every guest at the Burnside Shelter. And she…
Read MoreThe show was sold out, but nobody responded. The character on stage asked again, “Does anybody have a 20 dollar bill?” Jonathan put his hand up in the air, holding the exact amount. What happened next, Jon never would have imagined, but perhaps that’s what you should expect at a magic show—the unexpected. Next moment…
Read MoreLast fall, America held its breath as the Chicago Cubs battled the Cleveland Indians in the World Series. After a 107-year drought, the Cubs emerged with a hard-won victory, breaking a century-old “curse” of loss. Even people who weren’t die-hard Cubs fans had to smile at their dramatic turn. It was a Disney movie feel-good…
Read More