The August outing for the Red Hatters was a tour of the Union Gospel Mission. What an eye opener it was! While we think of it as being a place for housing and feeding the poor and unfortunate, it offers so much more.
Last year 121,995 meals were served, averaging over 110 people at each meal. Most of their food is gotten through Feeding South Dakota. Bread is donated. Garden produce is welcomed now in season.
There is an art department where artists and volunteers work with the residents. Some discover hidden talents they did not know they had. Artwork is hung throughout the building.
While donations of cloths and clothes are welcomed, many unusable items are found. These are 'baled' in a big blue baler standing nearly 8 feet tall. The bales are sent away where they are made into usable rags. No large furniture is accepted but they work with the Furniture Mission which is nearby.
The second floor is the Women's unit, which can house up to 48 women with their children. The ladies are urged to get a job. They try to provide free volunteer child care.
The third floor will become the family unit where families can remain together. This floor is being remodeled to suit this purpose.
We crossed the street and walked a couple buildings west to the Men's Center, which is kept separate for safety's sake. Over 120 men can be housed here. They have 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day programs offered to these men to assist them in overcoming their problems. The kitchen is in this building and we ate there after the usual crowd had left. Food is taken over to the Women's unit.
A Thrift Store is open to the public as well as their guests. Clothes and most anything can be purchased here. There were many books for all ages.
Nightly chapel services are held as well as ongoing Bible studies. A Christian focus is in all programs. The previous night the second-ever baptismal service was held, with over 30 being baptized.
They welcome volunteers in all areas. Groups are welcome to come in to serve, be it conducting a chapel service, sorting donations, in the art department, cleaning, child care, kitchen work, thrift store stocking and sales, and just everywhere.
It was another interesting outing.
Remember, anyone is welcome to join us for a day or the year. We enjoy each other and learn much. Contact any participating lady or Mary Dorsman at to learn more.
