Mission Statement
The Union Gospel Misson of Missoula is associated with the nationwide Association of Gospel Rescue Missions that serve those who are struggling with homelessness, poverty, and recovery issues. These individuals often cannot or will not seek services elsewhere due to mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, or fear. The Mission operates according to Christian charitable values, and all programs and services are offered without regard to gender, race, or faith.
Description
The Mission's tag line is "taking Jesus to the streets," which is accomplished by demonstrating God's love in practical ways such as providing hot meals, clothes, sleeping bags, blankets, and other comfort to cold, hungry, and hurting individuals. Outreach efforts are based on a commitment to respect each person, addressing specific needs in a personalized manner to bring hope and provide lasting solutions that result in transformed lives of people who then become productive members of the community.
The Day Center provides basic needs to the homeless and needy - things that most of us take for granted: restrooms, clean water, the use of a phone, bus passes, toiletries, rides to local churches, Christ-based movies and friendship. The Mission's "kitchen" and food pantry is a very busy place. More than 2,000 meals are furnished each month for those coming for breakfast and lunch. In addition, over 140 food boxes are prepared every month and given to the homeless and needy in the community.
The Thrift Boutique is the central distribution location for the Mission. While food donations are brought directly to the Day Center, other donations of clothing or hard goods are brought to the Thrift Boutique for sorting and distribution to the ministry area with the greatest need. Quality donated goods are sold as a double benefit to the buyer and to UGM of Missoula ministry participants. All proceeds from the store support the ministries of UGM of Missoula, but financial contributions are not the only means of support happening at this boutique. Each day, people tack up prayer requests to the Prayer Wall and Boutique staff are available to pray in the dedicated Prayer Room.
The Women & Children’s Shelter is open each night for women with children and for single women. Each comes hoping to find support, encouragement, and to discover God’s blessings for all of life. Here at the Shelter, the start of those blessings includes more permanent shelter, fuller life skills development, and the beginning of a local support network, both individually and as a family.
Daily shuttle transportation is provided to and from the shelter, with overnight lodging and home-cooked meals, while families are supported in goal setting and in pursuing available housing options and opportunities to grow socially and spiritually. Onsite staff and volunteers serve up good food and great fellowship. Women and children of any faith background are welcome, with the understanding that this and all Mission programs are founded and operated with a Christian world view.
