The Rescue Mission is shining a light on poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness in Northeast Indiana during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.
Fort Wayne Rescue Mission news release:
Rescue Mission kicks off National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week November 13 to 20, 2021.
Fort Wayne, Indiana (November 5, 2021) – The Rescue Mission is shining a light on poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness in Northeast Indiana during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual event where local volunteers and organizations come together across the country to draw attention to the economic, social, environmental, and personal obstacles many residents in your local community may face. Participants spend the week holding educational, community service, fundraising, and advocacy events to address these critical issues.
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is co-sponsored nationally by the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness. The event originated at Villanova University in 1975, and now takes place in nearly 700 communities across the country.
This year’s event occurs during a time that national and local human and social service organizations see increased demand for their services. The Rescue Mission is serving two to three times as many individuals and families than normal during this time of year. The Rescue Mission estimates more than 3,000 Northeast Indiana residents experience homelessness and serves over 2,100 unique individuals each year. “Hunger often precedes homelessness because people who are forced to decide between paying for housing or groceries will, more often than not, choose the former.” said Donovan Coley, CEO/Senior Pastor of The Rescue Mission.
Data provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Census Bureau show more than 100,000 residents are food insecure across Northeast Indiana. “Hunger and homelessness are epidemics that sadly affect too many members of our community,” said Coley. “Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an opportunity for us to tackle these issues head on, rally public support, and call for solutions.”
Tuesday, November 16, All day
Today’s Focus – Trauma
Undealt with trauma and lack of healthy relationships are the leading causes for homelessness. Consider how these leave someone broken, and without support.Wednesday, November 17, All day
Today’s Focus – Mental Health
Nearly 90% of individuals facing a homeless crisis experience mental health issues. Pray for those struggling with mental health disorders and how you can help.Thursday, November 18, All day
Skip a lunch, feed a bunch
Skip your lunch and donate the cost of a meal to help your neighbors in need. Donate at fwrm.org/skipFriday, November 19, All day
Day of PrayerJoin us on a community-wide Zoom call and pray for those experiencing hunger or a homeless crisis. Visit fwrm.org/NHHAWprayer for the Zoom link.
About The Rescue Mission
After more than 118 years of evolution and adaptation, The Rescue Mission remains steadfast in its mission to “provide, through the power of Jesus Christ, a home for the homeless, food for the hungry, and hope for their future.” The Rescue Mission remains committed to serving the community and those in greatest need. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.fwrm.org.
Return to the AroundFortWayne home page.
Related Images:
