Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities (UGMTC) opened its doors more than 120 years ago to feed, shelter, and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with St. Paul dock workers, laborers, and lumberjacks. Through the years, our programming evolved to meet the changing needs of men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. Our emergency shelter provides guests with food, shelter, and vital care—including mental health services.
Once food security and safe shelter issues are met, our staff walk alongside residents for up to two years, providing Bible study, professional counseling, group therapy, education, mentorship, job skills training, early childhood education, addiction recovery, and financial literacy instruction needed to thrive and live successfully in the community.
Angel’s story
Angel is a single mother to four children, ages 2, 3, 7 and 11. When she and the father of her kids split up, she didn’t know where to go. She desperately wanted her children to grow up in a safe environment where they could learn about God’s love, but she had no way to provide for them. She hadn’t finished high school, and she didn’t have a job. Angel and her children faced the prospect of becoming homeless.
“It was hard for me to talk to people I didn’t know,” she says. “I was an introvert and struggled with social anxiety and other mental challenges. I just didn’t have confidence in myself that I could raise my kids alone.”
Fortunately, a friend connected Angel with Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities, where she and her children joined our Naomi Family Program and found the fresh start they desperately needed to get back on their feet.
“I felt a little awkward because I didn’t know anyone and didn’t know what to expect,” she recalls.
Now, Angel is working to earn her GED. She then plans to go to school to become a medical assistant. Even though raising her four children alone as a single mother is still challenging, she feels more prepared than ever to build a brighter future for her family.
“I am thankful to UGMTC for changing my outlook on life and people. My priorities are different, and I’m growing closer to Jesus,” she says. “I feel more comfortable around other people now. The Mission helped me break out of my shell.”
This Easter, Angel is experiencing God’s gift of new life! Thank you for empowering her to follow Christ’s calling in her life. “Since coming to UGMTC, I believe I can do things I didn’t think I could do before. I have more confidence in myself.”
Celebration of Hope
Join Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities for our Celebration of Hope on Friday, May 16! You will enjoy a moving evening filled with stories and inspiration from our Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities residents and alumni. Come hear about the impact you can make on the lives of people experiencing homelessness, hunger, and addiction. Learn how we continue to address the ever-changing homelessness crisis in the Twin Cities.
