UGM LC Valley Shelter: Exciting progress and a renewed purpose

Returning to Our Roots

After 11 years away from our hometown of Lewiston, my wife (Bonnie), our two sons, and I have returned. Over the past decade, we searched for our calling, often asking the Lord, “Where would we be most fruitful in Your Kingdom?” We dreamed of working overseas as missionaries to unreached people groups, but the opportunity never materialized.

Throughout this journey, Bonnie and I have faced deep suffering and experienced profound healing. The Lord has been with us, revealing His goodness and love through His people and guiding us toward our true path. We received healing through others and felt a calling to offer the same support and care. We now know that we are called to help broken people experience the love and goodness of Christ through the work of Union Gospel Mission.

Renewed Purpose

Our hearts have been bent towards those struggling with homelessness, addiction, abuse, and the consequences of harmful behavior. Bonnie and I left Lewiston in 2013, thinking we would never return. But God has a sense of humor, and our journey often felt like Jonah’s in his reluctance to God’s calling for him in Nineveh. We wander until we find rest in Him and His will. The Spirit has called us back to a place that feels like home, full of nostalgia and comfort. There is no greater comfort than being at the center of God’s will, and that is where we find ourselves today. Thanks be to God.

Bonnie and I have a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the LC Valley. We are thrilled to announce that the build project for the UGM LC Valley is moving forward! If you’ve passed by the site recently, you may have noticed activity—things are progressing. Kenaston Construction is working with the city on permits and preparing the grounds for the foundation. The housing building is approved and plans for the cafeteria and chapel are nearly finalized.

Reaching Our Goal

As of August 15, we’ve raised $7,925,899 of our $8,900,000 goal. We’re just $974,101 away from our target, and with your help, we can reach this goal by the end of the year and open the shelter’s doors.

We continue to be humbled by support from local churches, businesses, and individuals through prayer, encouragement, and financial contributions.

A recent heartfelt message from a community member in need deeply resonated with us: “I am wanting information on how your program works. I am trying to get my son some help. He is currently homeless in Lewiston, ID/Clarkston, WA. He needs some positivity in his life and hope. I wish there was somewhere closer so that he could stay in contact with his kids.” This message is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for services like ours in the Quad Cities region.

We aim to be a beacon of hope and positivity, providing a safe and healing space for individuals to rebuild their lives and experience the redemption that comes through knowing Christ and being in fellowship with God’s family. Until our LC Valley doors open, our Spokane and Coeur d'Alene shelters are just two hours away.

We Need Your Support

We invite everyone to join us in this mission, whether through volunteering, donations, prayer, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those who need it most.

Thank you, LC Valley, for welcoming us back with open arms. We look forward to the day when our shelter can offer support, guidance, and a path to a brighter future. Please consider making a donation to help us cross the finish line. Every gift brings us closer to making this shelter a reality.

Thank you for your continued support in building hope.