Dear Friend,

 

There is something comforting about Christmas traditions. The tree goes in its familiar place, favorite songs return and decorations appear. We know what to expect, and that familiarity is part of what makes Christmas special.

 

At the Milwaukee Rescue Mission, the men, women and children who come to us for help can count on a warm Christmas welcome! Decorations go up, carols fill the air, a special meal is prepared and wrapped gifts are shared. Our guests don’t always have these comforts before coming here, but we aim to give them a joyful Christmas experience when they walk through our doors.

 

That nurturing extends beyond the Christmas season with hot meals and shelter from the cold throughout the winter months. It also includes counseling, classes, accountability and daily encouragement as our neighbors take steps toward rebuilding their lives.

 

As we celebrate Christ’s birth and share the true meaning of Christmas, I’m reminded of the importance of welcoming our neighbors as we would welcome Christ Himself. Through God’s grace and your generosity, that welcome continues — not only at Christmas, but every day!

 

Thank you for helping make these Christmas celebrations possible. Thanks to your generosity, neighbors can count on that welcome throughout the year. May God bless you with a Christmas filled with comfort and joy!

 

Gratefully,

Patrick H. Vanderburgh, D.Min., President

 

P.S. We also have exciting news for 2027! We are preparing to expand New Journey, our Christian addiction recovery program for men. A new campus will give us room to support more men from throughout the region as they pursue lasting sobriety and their God-given purpose. There is much to do, and I look forward to sharing updates as these plans take shape.