COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- In response to Tuesday's decision by Colorado Springs City Council to pass an ordinance that bans camping in public places, Springs Rescue Mission (SRM) has put into place an action plan to offer immediate services to the homeless currently living in tents throughout the city.
The plan involves expanding its available bed capacity within the SRM's New Life recovery program. The one-year residential program offers a solution to those who want to transition from life on the streets to a more permanent and positive way of living.
“Springs Rescue Mission has played a major role in a consortium of homeless service agencies, organized by Homeward Pikes Peak, to provide appropriate, high-quality programs that assist homeless individuals in moving from the despair of homelessness and substance abuse to the hope of a better-quality, self-sufficient life,” says Bob Holmes, executive director of Homeward Pikes Peak
To facilitate awareness, a group consisting of current residents in recovery from SRM's program will visit area homeless camp sites, along with members from Homeless Outreach Team (HOT), distribute information and invite interested men to explore the entry process.
“I personally know a lot of those guys living in the tents from my recent days as a homeless individual myself,” says Dave, a current SRM resident. “I just want to tell those living in tents how my life has changed in a more positive direction since I became a part of the New Life Program at the mission. I’ve been there and know that there’s something better that’s possible.”
“Springs Rescue Mission has no desire to offer opinions on a matter of city governance. Regardless of city regulations, the rescue mission has been, and will remain, a safe place for people and families in need of free food, clothing, and urgent care. Our long-term goal is to offer life-changing services to society's marginalized individuals ready and willing to break habits of poverty or addiction. Frequently, this takes a serious commitment of time and effort building relationships, healing long-standing wounds, and teaching self-sufficiency," said Lyn Harwell, director of SRM programs.
'There is no doubt that our community has tremendous compassion and concern for everyone who is without a home or living on the edge of homelessness. Springs Rescue Mission has been helping those in need for 13 years," Harwell continued. "Regardless of local legislation, we purpose to be a hub and connecting point where the people of our community and local church can learn about the issues, learn how to offer real help to those in poverty or homelessness, and walk along side someone in need of honest love, help, and support.”
In addition, SRM has expanded its hours and the number of people it serves. Currently, the mission serves more than 20,000 meals each month and houses nearly 40 men in transitional treatment.
Donations to help keep the programs going and volunteers to serve are always needed. Springs Rescue Mission is located at: 5 W. Las Vegas St.
To learn more about Springs Rescue Mission, call (719) 632-1822 or visit the Web site at: www.springsrescuemission.org.
Click here to read: City council passes the No Camping ordinance
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