World Homeless Day

Every year on October 10, people around the world take a day to acknowledge the needs of those in their communities facing homelessness, and we partnered with Hello for Good to host a World Homeless Day event in downtown Spokane. Community members, UGM staff, and UGM residents gathered together to hear from some who have found freedom from their addiction, share their own experiences, and offer prayer for those still trapped in the cycles of addiction and hopelessness.

After meeting all together, we broke off into smaller groups, carrying warming bags of supplies for the people in need that we encountered on the streets. The bags contained essential items like socks and toothbrushes, as well as some hats knitted by anonymous donors. The people on the street that we interacted with were not only gifted material provisions but were also offered the opportunity for a life change. They were prayed over and encouraged that they are not alone, freedom is possible, and there is hope.

Sean, who formerly struggled with addiction and found freedom through UGM, joined us for the day. Steve Fried, UGM staff member, shared that he was grateful to have Sean in his group when they encountered a group downtown in need of resources. “The Lord orchestrated that…He was the perfect person—because he had gone through the recovery program—to minister to these people and encourage them and challenge them.” This led to Sean praying with them and giving away his own personal Bible. Compassion and intentionality like this often encourages people to take the first step in getting help and to keep working toward transformation.

In Spokane this year, 2,201 people said they were experiencing homelessness and 443 were unsheltered. Many have poor work histories, lack valid ID, and most don’t even have the stability and connections necessary for developing a better path for their future. UGM staff member, Rachael, said, “The safety aspect that we provide first and foremost, that’s what people need right now. They can’t make a plan or decide what they’re going to do next until those basic needs are met.” That’s where we as a community come in. Here at UGM, we provide meals, shelter, counseling, medical clinics, and many other resources for our homeless neighbors, and you make that possible through your support of the ministry.

Steve reflected on his experiences saying, “This is my second year doing this. My first year I was a little apprehensive about approaching homeless people…It was really cool to see the Lord’s hand in this, using people to reach the homeless and offer them hope.”

Thank you to everyone who volunteered for World Homeless Day, those who donated and provided supplies, those who donated to help fund the ministry, and those who were not able to participate in person but prayed over the mission’s efforts. This effort allows for us to gain a better perspective of homelessness in our city as we offer better hope for tomorrow to those affected.

Watch the recap video here!

You can learn more about homelessness and how to be a catalyst for change through our FREE Homelessness 101 e-guide. You have the power to help them. Visit www.uniongospelmission.org/resources for available resources and learn how to offer help that lasts.