Tis the season of joy and generosity! As the days grow colder, the need for warm clothing and blankets grows at our Burnside shelter. Thanks to champions of the Mission like Oak Hills Presbyterian Church, we are able to continue offering blankets, coats and socks to men and women in need of extra warmth. Our…
Read MoreWe know Last week was Halloween and the leaves are as beautiful as ever but, believe it or not, Christmas is 7 weeks away! The holidays are some of the busiest and most joyful times here at Portland Rescue Mission. Did you know that 54% of our annual support comes in at this time? Donations…
Read MoreFew of us know what it feels like to sleep outside in the rain, the cold and sometimes even the snow. Don knows exactly what that feels like. “I’ll never forget the first night out on the street that I was homeless. I had just cardboard that I pulled up around me and made a little…
Read MoreAt the beginning of May, I spent the day at the Burnside shelter, celebrating our guests. It was our annual Birthday Party for the Homeless. The dining hall was decorated in bright colors, and every guest was receiving cards. Near the end of the evening, a guest looked up from their birthday card and asked,…
Read MoreLife on the streets is dangerous for a woman. If a mother becomes homeless, she’s likely to lose custody of her children. A woman alone on the streets is almost certain to be victimized within the first few days. “Its hard out here on the streets. It’s scary. I’ve put my life in danger, sleeping…
Read MoreAs 2016 draws to a close, I find myself deeply grateful for the changed lives here at Portland Rescue Mission. What a tremendous year of healing for so many hurting men, women and children who came to us for help in their darkest times. You’ve probably seen the overwhelming need in our community. The…
Read MoreHarsh winter conditions are especially detrimental for men and women living outside. “Being homeless is beyond difficult, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. But being homeless during the winter can be deadly,” said Guest Care Manager Andrew Hall. Life becomes all about survival for men and women on the streets. “I remember walking…
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