City Union kicks off campaign to aid homeless

City Union Mission kicks off its annual CELEBRATE HOPE: Reach Out to Kansas City’s Poor or Homeless campaign October 1. The organization is a leading provider of programs and services, assisting homeless and disadvantaged people in the Kansas City community,

The fundraiser, which runs through January 31, 2020, seeks to secure $6.5 million, a significant portion of the yearly operating budget that supports the ministry’s comprehensive outreach.

“We deliberately conduct this campaign during a critical time here at the Mission,” said Executive Director Dan Doty. “The months of October through December are when we are evaluating and anticipating the needs that might arise during the busy holiday season. We want to be ready with meals, activities and life-changing programs that can offer hope and a helping hand to those who are struggling. It’s also a time to look to the year ahead, and prepare for guests who will benefit from our faith-based services and Christian fellowship.”

Each day, the Mission provides safe refuge and life essentials for as many as 400 homeless men, women and children, and serves an average of 650 meals to shelter guests and hungry people from surrounding neighborhoods. Christ-centered recovery and spiritual guidance – along with adult education, career development and job placement assistance – are also provided for men and women longing to rebuild stable and productive lives.

The Mission accepts no funding that would compromise their faith-based principles, and relies solely on the support of individuals, churches, businesses and foundations to meet their annual campaign goal.

“It is my prayer that people in our community will give generously to this campaign to help reach individuals and families who are looking to overcome homelessness or poverty,” Doty said. “Each gift can and will change lives.”

Donations can be made online at cityunionmission.org or mailed to City Union Mission, P.O. Box 270107, Kansas City, MO 64127. All gifts received by December 31 are tax-deductible for 2019, and donations received by January 31, 2020, will be counted toward the campaign goal. “We are thankful for every gift – no matter how big or how small – because every dollar makes a difference in the hearts and lives of the guests we serve!” Doty said.

More information about City Union Mission’s full range of programs and services for homeless and struggling families and individuals can be found online at cityunionmission.org. Financial gifts can be made on the site 24 hours a day.

–Metro Voice