Poverty Awareness Month – What is Gateway Mission doing about poverty?

We offer varying programs and resources to help our guests discover the hope and future that is possible. From short-term emergency services to long-term life-changing programs, we help hurting people discover a life of dignity and renewed purpose.

We have Emergency Services providing for the visible needs of our hurting neighbors – a warm meal, a safe place to lay their heads, and warm clothing. During their stay we introduce them to our other long-term programs. They also have a small daily chore or housekeeping task which allows them to feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

We have the Pathway Program which provides assistance in gaining and maintaining employment. During this time, they will also receive financial accountability while working toward stability. Guests participate in morning chapel and a weekly worship service – Gateway Gathering. The 4-month duration of the Pathway Program is essential to helping men and women gain stability while making reliable resource connections. Similar to the Pathway Program, we have Pathway Bridge which allows us to help those with disabilities (both physical and mental) that might hinder them from working a regular job.

Forge Program is a 40-week residential program for men and women that is purposefully designed to be a path out of homelessness, resolving their invisible poverty and into freedom and independence. 

The Forge program is specifically for those who struggle with destructive life barriers such as drug and alcohol abuse, past criminal history, or continued occupational and housing barriers. Through a combination of classes with trauma informed and evidence-based curriculum, Biblical counseling, real-life work training, certifications and experience, the Forge program provides the opportunity for men and women to proceed on a path to long lasting Christ-centered transformation. 

We have the Thrive which is a bridge of the Forge Program. After completing the Forge program, students can apply to continue their journey of spiritual, relational, educational, and vocational development in a one-year paid internship at Gateway Mission.

These are just the programs we offer. This does not even scratch the surface of the work that we are enabled to do because of our Savior Jesus Christ. Our day-to-day ministry would not be possible without the many pieces that connect to make the Gateway body. From prayer, volunteers, food donations, legacy giving, schools, churches, other organizations, event participants, first responders, individuals, staff members, material donations, and all the many other pieces that connect.  

1 Peter 3:8, “Finally all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate, and humble.”

We believe in Christ-centered care which encourages our hurting neighbors to overcome the root issues of poverty, homelessness, and addiction. It is our mission to declare and demonstrate the love of Christ by providing housing and programs for the homeless and less fortunate. We have the vision to equip each person we serve to follow Jesus and live as productive citizens. We do this by creating environments where Holy-Spirit empowered inner transformation leads to long lasting life change.

I got down on my knees and asked Jesus, I said, “will you be my Savior? Will you help me?” You’re not just a number here. You’re taken care of here. I mean when you’ve gone through this program you’ve really done something. It’s not just professional, it’s a really loving atmosphere here. And I am very glad I decided to come. – Clinton F. Student Graduate

Gateway Mission exists to declare and demonstrate the love of Christ and serve as a first step toward a new life for homeless men, women, and families across West Michigan. Our desire is to help every person who walks through our doors experience lasting transformation. From broken to beautiful. From lost to loved. From hopeless to hopeful.