Mission Moments May 2024

KEITH OVERHOLT, MBA President/CEO

“LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME TO ME, AND DO NOT FORBID THEM; FOR OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.”

Matthew 19:14

Over my many years of ministering at the Downtown Rescue Mission, I have seen the miracle of hundreds, if not thousands, of lives changed by the grace of God. It is a special thing to see a life that was once broken and beaten down become new, just like the Bible tells us that “old things have passed away and all things are become new”, 2 Cor. 5:17.

Along with the blessings there are also heartbreaking moments, and nothing breaks my heart more than seeing little children running up and down the halls of the Mission. Don’t get me wrong, I love that the Mission is here to care for the moms and their children, but it breaks my heart when I think of the circumstances that lead to these families having to find shelter at a mission.

Many of these families come to us because of financial problems and have nowhere else to turn. Many others have been

abused and are running from a bad situation. Some of the mothers have found themselves addicted to alcohol and or drugs and are looking for help from bad choices in life. Whatever the circumstance, the children never had a choice and that is what is so sad. But thank the Lord that these families have found a place like the Downtown Rescue Mission where we will love and care for each child with a Christ-like love.

Matthew 19:14, Jesus says “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Many of the kids have no idea that DRM is also a homeless shelter and while they stay here, even consider it home. This month, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, please consider praying, giving, or volunteering to help the moms and kids who feel at home at the Mission.

FINDING HOPE AND PURPOSE

“MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE UNTO THE LORD, ALL YE LANDS. SERVE THE LORD WITH GLADNESS: COME BEFORE HIS PRESENCE WITH SINGING.

KNOW YE THAT THE LORD HE IS GOD: IT IS HE THAT HATH MADE US, HIS PEOPLE, AND THE SHEEP OF HIS PASTURE. ENTER INTO HIS GATES WITH THANKSGIVING, AND INTO HIS COURTS WITH PRAISE: BE THANKFUL UNTO HIM, AND BLESS HIS NAME. FOR THE LORD IS GOOD, HIS MERCY IS EVERLASTING; AND HIS TRUTH ENDURETH TO ALL GENERATIONS.“

Psalms 100:1-5

Hi, my name is Robin and I came to the Downtown Rescue Mission for a new start. When I got here

I was in a hospital gown and didn’t have any idea where I was and what I was doing.

After staying in overnight for over 2 weeks I got an opportunity to come into the program. I was very mad because I didn’t have anywhere to go. But, God opened my heart and showed me where I needed to be.

Continuing to learn about myself and about God. I am learning to follow him and not to worry about tomorrow. I suffer from depression and anxiety and it gets very hard at times. God got me through it all though. This is the place God wants me to be in my life.

Thanks to God and the Downtown Rescue Mission for changing my life. God has a plan for me to stay here and save for my own place and work at the Thrift Store.

FROM GRIEF TO GRACE

Hello, my name is Gina and I have always been passionate and dedicated to the issue of homelessness in my community. After the recent loss of my precious son, I decided instead of worshiping the grief of my son I wanted to worship the living. I joined the volunteers of Owen’s House at the Downtown Rescue Mission in the kitchen of the women and children’s building to be in direct contact with people.

“TRULY I TELL YOU, WHATEVER YOU DID FOR ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE BROTHERS AND SISTERS OF MINE, YOU DID FOR ME.“

Matthew 25:40

I feel so honored and blessed to serve them weekly and they give me more than I give them. I am a REALTOR at Rosenblum Realty and care about housing for all our community. With God’s help I will continue to serve those in need and focus on life.

450 Old Hwy 431, Owens Cross Roads, AL Friday, May 24th

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove

Chance to WIN a hole-in-one challenge & prizes worth up to $2,000!

Shotgun Start

Check-in : 7am

Practice Range : 7am

Shotgun start : 8am

To register or for sponsorship SWINGFORSHELTER.ORG

For more information or to become a sponsor contact Jenn Maturano at events@downtownrescuemission.org

Become a monthly donor and change lives. You can make the difference. Life-Long Healing

Become a monthly “Friend of the Friendless” mission partner Donate today at downtownrescuemission.org

LIVES YOU HAVE TOUCHED IN MARCH

8,835 Lodging Provided

32,423 Meals Served 235 Food Boxes

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