Demand for meals up 29% in 2011

Union Gospel Mission saw demand for meals increase by 29% in 2011, with total meals served at 170,585.  The largest area of growth was Union Gospel Mission's hot breakfasts and hot lunches, with 66,625 meals served last year.  In addition to meals served at Union Gospel Mission, 1,801 food boxes were distributed to individuals and families in need.  Food box demand was especially heavy during the holiday season, when the Mission supplied over 100 Thanksgiving food boxes (including turkeys and pumpkin pie!) The Mission also supplied Christmas food boxes and distributed toys to families with children.

In 2011, Union Gospel Mission also conducted a survey of guests that access the Mission's services.  Some of the heartbreaking statistics include: 29% of our guests had experienced physical violence in the past year, 39% of our guests are struggling with mental illness, and 50% of our guests have been homeless for more than one year.

Thank you for sharing God's love with people who are struggling to meet their basic needs.