Spring always brings a sense of hope to me. Trees begin to bud, the air softens, and we are reminded that God is in the business of making things new. Yet for many of our homeless neighbors, this season also brings uncertainty and fear. With the temporary winter shelters now closed, hundreds of men and women suddenly find themselves without a safe place to sleep. Even in a mild winter, the need for shelter does not disappear in Spring. People still need a warm meal, a safe bed, and a place where someone will look them in the eye and say, “You matter.”

As winter and government funded shelters close, more people are coming to the Rescue Mission seeking help. Our dorms fill quickly, and many nights we reach the maximum capacity allowed by the Salt Lake County Fire Marshal. Our day room is crowded with people trying to rest, charge their cell phones, or simply have a place to be. Our clothing room is busier than ever. And our New Life Recovery Program continues to fill as men and women seek a long‑term, faith‑based path out of addiction and homelessness.

This growing need comes at a time when the economy is difficult for many families. Rising costs affect all of us, and they affect the Mission as well. Food, fuel, utilities, clothing, and basic supplies cost more today than they did even a year ago. At the same time, more people are struggling to find work or to stay housed. Many arrive at our doors exhausted, discouraged, and unsure of how to take the next step.

Unlike many shelters, the Rescue Mission receives no government funding. We rely entirely on the generosity of people who believe that every person is created in the image of God and worthy of love, dignity, and a chance to rebuild their life. Because we are privately supported, we are free to share the hope of Jesus Christ with every person who walks through our doors. We can offer not only shelter and meals, but also the promise of forgiveness, renewal, and transformation.

Spring is a season of new beginnings, and every day we see glimpses of that renewal here. A man who once slept on the streets now reads his Bible with understanding and joy. A woman who arrived addicted and afraid now celebrates months of sobriety. These are signs of God’s restoring work.

As we enter this season, I ask you to prayerfully consider how you can help. Your support allows us to welcome those who have nowhere else to turn and to offer them the hope of new life through Jesus Christ.

God Bless!

Chris D. Croswhite
Executive Director