“God rescued me from the pit of hell and he formed himself into a human person and he died for me. If I could return the favor, I would. So now, I sacrifice all of myself for Him.” – Ephraim, UGM Men’s Shelter
Photo by Jessica Morgan
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“I wanted the job because I wanted to give back and to say thanks for what was done for me, for putting me on a path and showing me that I am worth something…This job is all about coming alongside a man and telling him, ‘Everything’s gonna be OK. You’re doing a great job here today’ and putting a little light on his life for a minute.” – Derek Mobley, UGM Men’s Shelter Kitchen Supervisor
“Being out on the streets makes it really hard to sleep because I’d always need to keep my guard up. Often, I’d walk half the night just to find a place to sleep. I was always packing everything I owned on my back. I did panhandle, but that would only go so far. When I got desperate, I would rummage through dumpsters which, many times, would be baking in the sun all day. I never looked anyone in the eye, my head was always down. I was ashamed by my appearance and how I smelled.
“Thanks to Union Gospel Mission, I have hope. I have self-esteem, and I have a future.” – Ron, UGM Men’s Shelter, Spokane
“I know where the guys have come from. I have been where they are. I walked through the east door just like they did, I felt the emotions they feel when they first get here. I think that’s one of the best things about it, because I came from where they are, it gives them hope that they can accomplish anything they want.” –John, Men’s Shelter Day Desk
“I decided I wanted to quit drinking, and a friend of mine told me about this program…I haven’t touched a drop since I’ve been up here, and I’m just trying to do everything I can to get back on my feet and change my surroundings and my life.” – Dale, Men’s Shelter resident