The Tacoma Rescue Mission (TRM) works passionately to realize their vision “that every homeless person in Pierce County has access to a complete and permanent pathway out of poverty as they pursue God’s plan for their lives.” One stop on this complete and permanent path is their Downtown Campus, which has been in operation since 2001. This campus houses a full-service program offering warm meals, shelter, clothing, living essentials, holistic case management, and substance use services.
TRM has partnered with Emergency Food Network since 1992, with EFN providing about 30% of the food distributed through The Mission. A simple meal may not stir many of us, but TRM finds that a warm, nutritious meal is often the first step towards a new life. EFN supplies the bulk staples, fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and meat used to prepare hot meals.
TRM’s Good Neighbor Café also serves in the Pierce County emergency food system by providing over 800 meals daily to our neighbors in need. The Café is open to the public twice a day for Breakfast (7:00AM-8:00AM) and Dinner (5:00PM-6:00PM). Like so many community organizations, Tacoma Rescue Mission has been majorly impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, which caused them to rapidly revamp their entire system of service in order to ensure safety and follow health protocol.
When the pandemic hit, TRM partnered with The Salvation Army and EFN to acquire masks for volunteers and community members. Throughout this crisis, TRM has showcased admirable flexibility. Their dining room is now used for housing. Their warehouse has been turned into a shelter for 80 women. Due to COVID restrictions, their men’s shelter has been limited to space for 80 men daily, but TRM also offers 15 bunks for Veterans that are always full. The Rescue Mission is learning to fix problems creatively. TRM is currently building a dome, complete with heaters and gel warmers from EFN, to keep people warm and dry this winter. Inspired by the teamwork and ingenuity, Food Service Manager Andrew McGruder notes: “All of our partners have really stepped up. EFN, food banks, and restaurants have all worked closer together than before COVID”.
The Mission is in need of volunteers who can help with grounds keeping and sanitizing duties. Sign up to volunteer at https://www.trm.org/volunteer/.