“We must see the homeless population as real people – not addicts, drunks, or prostitutes.”

We are all faced with people experiencing homelessness. Maybe it is someone we know or the familiar panhandler on the corner. We must see the homeless population as real people – not addicts or drunks or prostitutes. Instead, they are people made in the image of God. The homeless are indeed some of the most vulnerable Americans living in poverty. Half a million Americans are homeless. Notably, lack of connection to a church or religious community increases homelessness. A report of The Council of Economic Advisors states, “the lifetime incidence of homelessness is reduced by 60 percent for individuals with strong ties to family, religious communities and friends.” At Gateway Mission we believe that God has called us to serve as a gateway to a whole new life for hurting people across West Michigan. With love and respect – we offer these men and women – and their families – help discovering God’s plan for them and a more hopeful future.

“When I started the Gateway Program there was a lot of fear, a lot of shame, a lot of guilt entering into the program. I was just welcomed with open arms. I truly was. I began to learn about Jesus and who he is.” Megan, Former Gateway Addictions and Discipleship Program Student. Megan is now a full-time staff member at Gateway and is thriving.

Gateway Mission exists to declare and demonstrate the love of Christ and serve as a first step toward a new life for homeless men, women, and families across West Michigan. Our desire is to help every person who walks through our doors experience lasting transformation. From broken to beautiful. From lost to loved. From hopeless to hopeful.  

“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed.” Psalm 9:9. Stay tuned for our next topic of “What is poverty?” 

Sources:

Dr. Scott Klingberg – Director of Ministry Operations – Interim

The Council of Economic Advisors, The State of Homelessness in America