Fort Wayne, Indiana – The Rescue Mission is marking National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week with a series of events aimed at raising awareness and providing support for those affected by hunger and homelessness. From November 18-22, the organization will host a variety of educational, service, fundraising, and awareness activities throughout the week.
Kicking Off with Dedication Ceremony
The week’s events will begin with a dedication ceremony on Monday, November 18, for The Rescue Mission’s newly opened Women and Children’s Shelter, located at 5920 Decatur Road. This shelter, which opened in July, is already addressing the growing need for shelter and services for vulnerable populations.
Pastor Thomas McArthur, President & CEO of The Rescue Mission, emphasized the increased demand for services:
“We are seeing an increased need for food, services, and shelter for those experiencing a homeless crisis. This move not only represents our preparations for the future but the continued need within our community to help the most vulnerable.”
Donation Drive at Treasure House
On Tuesday, November 19, The Rescue Mission’s Treasure House thrift store will be collecting donation items from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 10202 Coldwater Road. Donations of clothes, household items, and other goods are encouraged to help support the mission’s efforts in assisting those experiencing homelessness.
Panel Discussion on Wednesday
A panel discussion will be held on Wednesday, November 20, at 2 p.m. at the Allen County Public Library’s Main Library. The discussion will center around the importance of recognizing and addressing the needs of vulnerable community members. Speakers include a range of local experts and advocates, such as:
- Pastor Thomas McArthur, The Rescue Mission
- Darcy Robins, Hope and Recovery Team
- Cass Winters, Allen County Public Library
- Erin Ness, St. Joseph Missions
- Mary Ann Mings, Inasmuch Ministry
- Christian Perez Mora, FWCS
- Tomi Cardin, Redemption House
- Kelly Lundberg, City of Fort Wayne
- Shirley Rork, Just Neighbors
- Cameron Shackelford, YMCA Youth Service
Skip a Meal, Feed a Bunch on Thursday
On Thursday, November 21, The Rescue Mission encourages community members to skip a meal and donate the money they would have spent to help their neighbors in need. Donations can be made online at the 2024 NHHAW Skip a Lunch Feed a Bunch page.
Day of Prayer on Friday
The final event of the week will take place on Friday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at PrayerWorks Fort Wayne (1626 Broadway Street, Suite 135). This “Day of Prayer” will focus on the most vulnerable members of the community, as people come together to pray for those facing hunger and homelessness.
A Call for Community Support
As Pastor McArthur points out, this week is an opportunity to raise awareness and start important conversations about homelessness and hunger in the Fort Wayne area. These events invite people to engage, reflect, and take action.
For more information about The Rescue Mission and its ongoing work to support Fort Wayne’s homeless population, visit The Rescue Mission’s website.
