It’s always encouraging to receive good news. It’s especially encouraging when it shows that the ongoing outreach at the Rescue Mission, which is accomplished through gifts, donations, hard work, and God’s grace, are truly making a difference.

That’s why I was heartened when the State of Utah released the results of its annual Point in Time Count (PIT) last month. The Rescue Mission, along with other public and private homeless service providers, participates in this statewide effort to count individuals experiencing homelessness in shelters, transitional housing, and on the streets.

Last year’s PIT Count revealed a troubling 18% increase in homelessness across Utah. With that sharp rise in mind, I was intrigued to see what the 2026 numbers would show.

The good news is that homelessness decreased by 1.6% statewide, year over year. At the same time, the number of our homeless friends staying in shelters increased by 0.8%. Both numbers encouraged me. They suggest that your support, combined with the efforts of the Rescue Mission and many partner organizations, is making a real impact.

One reason the increase in sheltered homelessness is meaningful is that it reflects the success of programs like our Seek and Rescue outreach. Our staff and volunteers visit camps and outdoor locations to meet people where they are, build trust, and invite them into the safety of the Mission. When someone comes indoors, everything changes. We can help them stabilize, address life‑controlling issues, find employment, and secure housing. Most importantly we can share the love of Jesus and in word and deed and help our homeless friends encounter the hope of the Gospel.

Last year alone, through Rescue Mission efforts, we helped 78 individuals secure employment and 77 individuals obtain housing. These are not just numbers; they are lives changed and futures restored. And they contributed directly to Utah’s overall 1.6% decrease in homelessness. The numbers lend credence to my belief that there is a correlation between increasing the number of our homeless friends living in shelters, like the Rescue Mission, and decreasing the total number of people who are homeless.

There is still much work to do. But after the significant increase the year before, this year’s reduction is a welcome sign that progress is possible and happening.

Thank you for supporting the work of the Rescue Mission. Your generosity makes a profound difference not only in the lives of people experiencing homelessness today, but also for eternity.

God bless you,

Chris D. Croswhite
Executive Director