SPOTLIGHT FOR GOOD: CITY RESCUE MISSION
EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO OVERCOME AND THRIVE
In the heart of Downtown Oklahoma City, City Rescue Mission stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Founded in 1960 by a group of compassionate businessmen, City Rescue Mission has evolved into a robust organization dedicated to serving those experiencing and at risk of homelessness. With a Christ-centered approach, City Rescue Mission leads the community in providing help, hope, and healing.
Often when a mother arrives at City Rescue Mission, providing basic items such as clothing and shoes for herself and her children is a chief concern. With access to these items in the Donation Resource Center, clients can focus on their journey to recovery and housing without this added concern for their families wellbeing.
MISSION AND VALUES
The mission of City Rescue Mission is to lead our community by serving people experiencing and at risk of homelessness with help, hope, and healing, in the spirit of excellence, under the call of Christ.
City Rescue Mission operates under the call of Christ, embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds with unconditional love, respect, and compassion. The organization’s core values – Christ-Centered, Empowerment, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation – are the pillars that guide their extensive services.
City Rescue Mission extends its hand of love and support to all, regardless of their faith or beliefs. The mission engages with individuals exactly where they are in their life journey, offering assistance and kindness that mirrors the love of Christ. Embracing inclusivity, City Rescue Mission welcomes people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, providing unconditional love, respect, and compassion. It operates on the fundamental belief that every person deserves to live a life marked by dignity and purpose. Dedicated to empowering its clients, City Rescue Mission aids them in overcoming life’s challenges, guiding them toward a future replete with hope and opportunities.
Founded in 1960, City Rescue Mission began helping the transient population in downtown Oklahoma City.
A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY
City Rescue Mission’s journey began with a modest 20-bed facility for men. Over the years, it expanded its capacity and services, addressing the growing needs of Oklahoma City’s transient population. By 1968, City Rescue Mission included services for women, doubling their capacity and, by 1980, for families, introducing a women’s and family shelter, a medical clinic, and an educational facility. This growth culminated in the establishment of their current facility at 800 W. California Ave in 1999, significantly enhancing their outreach. The new facility increased shelter space to 420 beds and provided greater opportunities to serve the community. By 2002, City Rescue Mission was serving 280,040 meals and recording 128,568 shelter nights annually. Further expansion occurred in 2015 with the opening of the Men’s Center, adding 220 beds and increasing services for men, women, and families.
“We love #OKC, and we truly love working to help make it a better place for all. Thank you to all our partners, and we encourage you to do something special today to show love for those around you!” - City Rescue Mission
SUPPORTIVE SERVICES AND PROGRAMS
City Rescue Mission’s programs are diverse and impactful:
Emergency Shelter: Offering a safe haven for single men, women, and families, City Rescue Mission provides necessities like food and clothing, as well as comprehensive case management.
Recovery Program: This faith-based initiative helps individuals grappling with life-controlling problems through education, structure, and spiritual enrichment.
Employment Readiness: City Rescue Mission prepares clients for the workforce with specialized training, resume assistance, and interview preparation.
Housing Program: Assisting clients in obtaining appropriate housing and promoting self-sufficiency to prevent a return to homelessness.
IMPACT AND OUTREACH
City Rescue Mission is constantly driven by the impact of their work on the lives of those they serve. Currently, their mission provides shelter and support to approximately 350 individuals at any given time, a testament to the urgent need and their response to the homelessness crisis in Oklahoma City. Among these, over 100 are children, each with their own story and potential. This significant number of young lives under their care highlights the critical role they play not only in providing immediate shelter and safety but also in nurturing the future of the community. Their commitment goes beyond mere numbers; each individual, each child represents a unique journey towards hope, stability, and a brighter future. This is the heart of their impact – offering a haven and a pathway to empowerment for hundreds, including the most vulnerable in our city.
In 2023, City Rescue Mission made a significant impact in addressing homelessness in Oklahoma City by providing housing to over 200 households. Many of these were families or individuals who faced significant barriers to housing, such as prior evictions or other issues that typically hinder their ability to secure a home. This accomplishment underscores the Mission's commitment to helping those who are most often overlooked and underserved in the community.
Annually, 90% of clients successfully end their homelessness upon exiting the Mission. With the provision of meals, shelter nights, and various other services, City Rescue Mission continuously works to reduce homelessness in Oklahoma City.
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RISE CAFE: A MODEL FOR SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
In 2022, City Rescue Mission opened the Rise Cafe, a pioneering social enterprise. This cafe not only serves as a charming spot for coffee and meetings but also equips City Rescue Mission clients with real-world job skills and vocational training, thereby breaking the cycle of homelessness and empowering individuals.
SUPPORT CITY RESCUE MISSION
Contributions to City Rescue Mission are vital for sustaining and expanding its life-changing services. Donations can be made online, monthly, or through item donations. Volunteering offers a hands-on way to make a direct impact. To discover the various ways you can support City Rescue Mission, you can visit their Ways To Give page.
City Rescue Mission’s enduring commitment to serving Oklahoma City’s unhoused and unsheltered is a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and community action. By supporting City Rescue Mission, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee at the Rise Cafe, you become a part of this transformative journey. Your support ensures that the light of hope and healing continues to shine brightly in Oklahoma City.
HOW TO CONNECT WITH SERVICES
If you or someone you know is in need of shelter or other services, you can start the intake process 24/7 by calling (405) 232-2709, visiting the Women's & Children's Entrance at 800 W. California Ave Oklahoma City, the Men's Entrance at 914 W. California Ave Oklahoma City, or by emailing the recovery program at recovery@cityrescue.org. The separate entrances for men, women, and children at the California Ave location ensure privacy and safety for all clients.
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