Laughter and Joy, Despite the Cold

Laughter and joy filled the air for they knew they were safe from the cold winter’s snare. 

Christmas came a bit early for the 110 men staying at our Blue Spruce Temporary Shelter on December 22. As they entered the building, many felt a sense of relief, because they knew they would be warm and safe from the winter wind that was in full force that night.

But what they didn’t know was they would be greeted with not only a roof above their head but a festive holiday feast and a special gift.

We received a generous donation of brand new winter work socks, which we handed out along with brand new thermals purchased for every guest staying with us. To say the least, the men were overjoyed and flowing with gratitude—some were even moved to tears.

Our frontline staff, volunteers and community supporters made all this possible. We are grateful to each and every person involved for we could not do this alone.

Warm a Heart Drive Is a Great Success

On another heartwarming note, our Warm A Heart Drive officially came to an end but not without leaving behind a bounty of clothes, coats and other inter items.

Frontline staff at Fort Collins Rescue Mission worked to get the donations organized for both the men staying at our Blue Spruce Temporary Shelter and for the women staying at Catholic Charities. They shuttled women over to our Jefferson Street facility to pick what they needed and wanted from the generous gifts this community donated.

Thank You for Making This a Merry Christmas

It has been so wonderful to see how each community partner and other organizations have really pulled together to take care of people experiencing homelessness in Northern Colorado. Thank you to all who contributed to this drive. You sure helped warm the hearts of many this season.

On behalf of staff at Fort Collins Rescue Mission, we send our sincerest gratitude to those helping us serve those in need in Northern Colorado. We have seen the Lord’s provision in ways unfathomable. May you be filled with peace and hope this Christmas for our Prince of Peace is with us always. Emmanuel; God with us!

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6 KJV

Written by: Ellis Petrik, Community and Event Specialist