AS SHOWCASED IN INGRAM’S MAGAZINE

For 83 years Kansas Citians have supported City Union Mission’s comprehensive programs in the areas of rescue, recovery, and reaching out to the community. The organization helps break the cycle of homelessness, making it part of the fabric of the city. While homelessness does not always involve addiction, that was true for Larry.

Larry’s parents were both alcoholics. At 19 years of age he joined the army and went to Vietnam. When he returned home he was rejected, shunned by friends and family members alike. Larry says, "Nobody in my family went, and none of my friends either." He had been into drugs and alcohol all along, but after Vietnam there was more of both. The years of addiction took its toll. He had been in and out of rehab, but nothing worked. Larry found himself on death’s door, feeling worthless, with no place to live. He says, "I had to choose between a couple of places to stay until I could get into a VA rehab program. I just picked the Mission. I intended to move on." He stayed because it was working where the others hadn’t. "The difference is that here I found a relationship with Jesus Christ ... not just some illusive 'higher power'. Here I’ve learned so many things. I know I can make it now because of Jesus."

Larry received medical care, life skills training, and alcohol and drug recovery treatment so that he could re-enter society as a productive member.

The value of a human life is immeasurable

Many people find themselves one paycheck away from losing everything. Why this happens is complex. "Homelessness results when people are forced to choose between food, shelter, and basic needs. Gambling, easy credit, domestic violence, and fatherless families, along with addictions all play a part," reports Dan Doty, Executive Director of the Mission. "An astounding 40% of guests this past winter were first time homeless. By the time people come through our doors, they have exhausted all other sources for help. We are literally their last hope. Try to imagine their emotional pain, confusion, and frustration. They come in broken, with many needs."

Tammie and Shane, with their two small children, came to City Union Mission when Shane lost his job. They never imagined they would be homeless. Neither Tammie nor Shane had a high school diploma or GED. "We heard about the great opportunities that were here. We were hoping to get in, and we did, and it’s completely changed us so much. We are two completely different people now," says Tammie. Shane adds, "I’d like to thank the donors that provide City Union Mission with funds to run these excellent programs to give us a helping hand and to help other families that are in need."

"Reaching out to the poor through City Union Mission’s Community assistance helps to keep people in their homes. It is key to prevention," says Robert Strong, Director of Family Ministries. "We provide the basics, case management, and financial assistance to low-income families. Simple things, like providing school supplies, can make a huge difference for someone who has to choose between paying the electric bill or buying the supplies.

Angela explains, "Last year I didn’t know how I would make ends meet, let alone buy school supplies. Then I found out about City Union Mission’s Stuff the Bus program. They provided all the tools my son, Jared, would need to succeed at school. It helped Jared to fit in."

When Pastor Charles Briscoe was asked what Kansas City would be like without the Mission, he replied, "I wouldn’t want to find out. Violent crime is rampant. Without the Mission, the numbers would skyrocket. As a pastor we support City Union Mission because there is no better agency to deal with the needy, the homeless, the hungry, and those needing a second chance. City Union Mission is good for Kansas City!"

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