Edge client Portland Rescue Mission recently opened its newest facility,
The Harbor, which allows men a quiet place to recover and find hope while rebuilding their lives. Edge was invited to come take a tour to see what The Harbor is all about.
Previously known as Next Step, The Harbor is where men engage in Portland Rescue Mission’s New Life Ministry. This ministry focuses on addictions recovery, spiritual renewal and life skills, and includes counseling, education and vocational training. Not only is this a great step forward for men involved in the program, but moving the program to its new facility also allowed for Portland Rescue Mission to expand its emergency services at its Burnside Shelter downtown. This allows Portland Rescue Mission to serve more meals and provide more beds for men, women and children who are currently homeless.
I was told long ago that there is nothing more powerful than the story of a changed life…
While we were on our tour, George Vaughan, Director of Partnership Ministry, was our tour guide. He thoughtfully walked us down the hallways speaking of the intention of the building’s design. Everything was designed with purpose — from the open welcome area, specifically designed to warmly invite anyone entering these doors to a safe environment to a crowded staff room with fewer desks than staff, specifically designed to inspire the staff to interact and spend time building relationships with residents rather than building camaraderie amongst themselves — in order to help these men on their road to their new lives without addiction.
In the computer lab, we witnessed a meeting of sweet old friends as a volunteer and longtime supporter, Fran, reunited with a man she used to visit with at the downtown shelter. They were both so excited to see each other again and spent the rest of the evening arm in arm catching up and recounting old stories.
We were also blessed by being treated to a meal prepared by one of the residents who graduated from Shepherd's Door, Portland Rescue Mission's women's program. She prepared authentic Thai food and was equipped with a team of interns who graciously served us all our meal.
I was told long ago that there is nothing more powerful than the story of a changed life, and that is definitely something I witnessed during our tour. We are honored to be working with Portland Rescue Mission and find incredible value in the work that they do.
Of course, none of this would be possible without those who donate their time and resources as well. If you find value in the services that the Portland Rescue Mission provides, then please
donate or sign up as a volunteer.
