You can reach out and change lives for the homeless in our greater Kalamazoo area by supporting the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission through prayer, giving of your gifts and giving of your time. The volunteer hours donated each year are countless and without each one of these special people, our task to those in need would not be fully accomplished. We are financially supported by caring individual and business donors and receive no government funding. Because of this, each financial gift is greatly needed and used to its fullest potential.

The Association of Rescue Missions has established 8 guidelines, including financial, time and prayer support, to better equip you to truly help the homeless people you meet: 

1. Never give cash to a homeless person

Too often, well intended gifts are converted to drugs or alcohol - even when the "hard luck" stories they tell are true. If the person is hungry, buy them a sandwich and a beverage.

2. Talk to the person with respect.

Taking time to talk to a homeless person in a friendly, respectful manner can give them a wonderful sense of civility and dignity. And besides being just neighborly, it gives the person a weapon to fight the isolation, depression and paranoia that many homeless people face.

3. Recognize that homeless people (and their problems) are not all the same.

The homeless are as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. The person you meet may be a battered women, an addicted veteran, someone who is lacking job skills...the list goes on.

4. Share God's love whenever you can.

If Jesus were walking the earth today, He would certainly spend time with the homeless. He would speak with them, heal them, and help them. Today, Jesus chooses to work through those who believe and follow Him.

5. Pray for the homeless.

Exposure to the elements, dirt, occasional violence, and lack of purpose all drain years from a person's life. God can use your prayers and the brutality and the futility of life of the street to bring many of the broken to Himself.

6. Take precautions for your own safety.

Some living on the streets are criminals and fugitives running from the law. Always be prudent while talking with street people. Stay in areas where other people can see you. Do not take unnecessary chances.

7. Encourage the homeless to get help at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.

The Kalamazoo Gospel Mission offers immediate food and shelter to the homeless through our emergency men, women and family shelters. We also offer long-term rehabilitation and discipleship programs that deal with the root causes of homelessness.

8. Support the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.

The Kalamazoo Gospel Mission receives no government funding. We are supported by caring individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups who see the value of sharing their resources with the less fortunate. Volunteer opportunities  are always available. Time and a willing heart are all that we need. Call our volunteer coordinator at 269.345.2974 ext 250 to find out what we have for you to do.