Feet on the Street: A Mission of Hope

by Aimee Scott, Member Relations Specialist

While festive lights wink a flicker of joy intended for all this holiday, there is a flame of hope burning strong in downtown Fort Wayne all year long. The Fort Wayne Rescue Mission offers a place of refuge, restoration and assured respect for those facing the most challenging of seasons. When the Rescue Mission became a member this past September, I was anxious to learn of ways that the Chamber could amplify the message of their mission.

I met with Larry Piano, CFO who briefed me on the history of the mission and its presence in Fort Wayne. He took me on a tour of the building. I was taken aback when I peered outside into a courtyard: bikes – lots and lots of bikes. We turned the corner and stepped inside the cafeteria. In a room where four hundred meals are served daily, I was surprised at the moderate size. It was far from “industrial feeling” – it was cozy – it was secure. Then Carlton Smith, the volunteer coordinator stepped up to me with a warm smile and a solid handshake. He was anxious to educate me about the immediate needs in the community where I live and work.

Thousands of individuals from Allen county and surrounding areas are supported with meals and housing annually. People who are served by the mission tomorrow are likely only one crisis away from needing help today.

In addition to community meals and housing for those in need, the mission hosts a six month intensive restoration program to assist individuals with mental health, educational and employment issues. Graduates of this phase of programming are offered transitional support through the Learning Center. Carlton shared that participants in the program are always “busy.” They are either studying or becoming equipped with life skills to help them be successful.

After my tour of the men’s facility, Larry Piano took me past the construction site of the new Charis House which is the women’s facility due to be completed around March 2010. This facility will nearly double the programming and housing capacity of the current Charis House. Charis House mirrors several features of the men’s educational and housing program.

Located at 2203 S. Lafayette St., Bargains Galore is a thrift store offered as a shopping alternative for the community. Gently used household items are also accepted and stored for those transitioning into community living.

The Rescue Mission depends on no tax or government funding to keep this flame burning warm and bright. Our community is richer for the hope they provide and for the strength their services are fostering.