In The News

Help Portrait Comes to URM

For many people experiencing homelessness, taking a family portrait each Christmas, or having a professional take a photo of themselves is a luxury they can’t afford.  But thanks to Help Portrait, an organization that brings professional photographers together to use their photography skills to give back to their local community, this luxury was made feasible and hundreds of people were able to receive beautiful portraits.

On Saturday, December 4th, Union Rescue Mission was one of several locations that photographers gathered to bless the people of Skid Row by taking beautiful photos, and printing them on the spot for free!

There were several backdrops to choose from, including a large Christmas tree with presents under it. A “Kids Station” was set up with crafts and coloring. All in all, it was a great day that brought joy to many people.

Take a look at the Channel 11 News clip below to see some of people that were touched by this fun and generous event!

Andy’s End of Month Update: November 2010

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we wanted to fill you in on what’s been happening at Union Rescue Mission so far this holiday season. Not only have we been busy feeding more people than ever and hosting our annual Thanksgiving Celebration, but we’ve also been celebrating many other achievements and honors this month!

Please take a moment to watch this video and catch up on the latest. As always, thank you so much for your support. We couldn’t do what we do without you!

URM Hosts Annual Thanksgiving Celebration Despite Rain!

Today we held our annual Thanksgiving Celebration – but unlike every other year, we had to move it inside due to the rain! Even with the last minute change, the event was still great and we were able to serve many people from the Skid Row community.

Beginning at midnight, volunteers came out to help fry turkeys all through the night in preparation for the event! Guests enjoyed a hot meal of turkey, stuffing, veggies, yams, mac ‘n’ cheese, salad and pumpkin pie!

The Kids Zone was held in our 3rd floor gym, where people enjoyed snow cones, cotton candy, and popcorn while children played in jumpers, on a bungee run, and other games.

Check out all the photos from todays event by clicking here!

Daily Grill Honors Veterans at URM

Last Thursday, the Daily Grill came out to sponsor and serve a wonderful Veterans Day lunch once again!

Lunch began with Garfield High School ROTC presenting the flag, and leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

URM guests enjoyed a tasty meal of meatloaf, carrots, potatoes, and apple cobbler! Veterans were honored at a special table and served by representatives from the Daily Grill as a thank you for their service to our country.

Andre Ethier & Farmer Johns Team Up Once Again

It felt like a day at the stadium yesterday, as Andre Ethier of the LA Dodgers grilled and served up Farmer John’s hotdogs!

Guests were thrilled to meet Andre, and enjoy a tasty dinner. Thanks to Farmer Johns, we were able to serve up 1,000 bacon wrapped dogs – the new Official Hotdog of LA.  We also received a donation of 27,000 lbs of ham thanks to Farmer Johns!

In honor of the donation, we celebrated with one of our traditional Bell Ringings, and Andre Ethier rang the bell.

Thanks to everyone who helped make todays event possible!

Men’s Program Celebrates November 2010 Graduation

Three times a year, we have the great joy of celebrating our men’s Life Transformation Program’s graduation! For the men who have completed the one-year program and all of it’s requirements, it is a very special day to celebrate how far they have come.

Yesterday was no different as we honored 22 graduates in our November 2010 ceremony.  The graduates and guests heard an inspirational speech from Dr. Keith Phillips, President of World Impact. Cassie Sanchez, Worship Leader at Church of the Redeemer, also blessed us with her beautiful voice and sang several songs.

Thanks to everyone who helps make our Life Transformation programs possible; without you, we wouldn’t be here to help these courageous men and women make the steps to recovery and really change their lives.

Most importantly, congratulations to our graduates!! We are so proud of you.

November 2010 Graduates

Sean Donahue

Terry Fluornoy

Willie Gaines

Darrell Huggins

Joseph Montoya

Broderick Smith

Francisco Alvizar

James Glover

Carlos Herrera

Edward Maldonado

Franscisco Pedroza

Fredis Zuleta

Oscar Castelo

John Meyers

Austin Onyango

Nicki Sidebottom

Louis Stephenson

Steven Varga

Kenneth Jones

Eric Theirmann

Ronald Wells

UCLA Bruins Visit URM Kids

Last night, we were honored to have members of the UCLA Football team come to URM to spend some fun time with our kids!

 

 

Everyone enjoyed the time of hanging out, playing games, and getting to know the players. Thanks so much to UCLA and the team for sharing their time and brightening the day for many kids!