Our family was so blessed to have the Long Beach Rescue Mission provide a safe place for our son to recover from years of drug and alcohol abuse while he was living on the streets. He tried many other recovery programs, but it did not resolve his issues. He was so happy to be surrounded by caring staff to guide him through his addictions. He stayed for 1.5 years and completed their New Life program where he fell in love with God's word. He came out strong and healthy and started his own business and got married!
Through the Long Beach Rescue Mission, I volunteered preparing food for the Homeless. I sorted sandwiches, fruit, and other meals. I also helped set the tables. My over all experience working at the Long Beach Rescue Mission was great! Everyone was so kind, and knew what they were doing. By the end of the day, I felt very happy that I was able to help in someway.
I quite enjoyed the easy pace of working dinner service. I loved leaving all my concerns about school or anything else at the door and giving my time to the service of others. Volunteering here was is a way therapeutic for me.
I only wish I was able to do more than work in the dining hall, but I couldn’t due to my age. Other than that, volunteering at LBRM was very enjoyable.
Long Beach Rescue Mission is not merely a place where individuals can commit to make life (saving) changes, although that is an important and core part of their service, but by engaging neighbors thoughtfully and practically they also educate community stake-holders about the most effective means of restoring spiritual, physical, mental and emotional wholeness. They take ownership of their neighborhood and facilities to preserve a clean and safe environment and have partnered with many community organizations to leverage efforts and resources. Volunteers help in many different areas, including the kitchen and dining room, thrift store, chapel services, and events. Through education, job training and placement, accountability, prayer support, Bible study, and friendship, Long Beach Rescue Mission impacts individuals, families and the community. A New Life Program graduation ceremony, where families are often brought back together, is just one public culmination of the restoration happening.