Exciting Developments at the Garden City Rescue Mission in Augusta, Georgia
Augusta, Georgia, is buzzing with anticipation as the Garden City Rescue Mission takes bold steps to enhance its facility. After officially acquiring their building in April, the mission is on a mission of its own: to improve the space where they have been providing safe housing for men for nearly 24 years. It’s all part of a larger vision for the future, and the community is rallying behind them like never before.
A Ownership That Inspires Hope
It’s no secret that the road hasn’t always been smooth for the Mission. Just a bit ago, there were worries about whether they could keep their doors open. However, Patrick Feistel, the executive director of the Garden City Rescue Mission, reflects on this new chapter with hope, saying, “It just showed that the Lord is not done at the Garden City Rescue Mission and that He does care about these men.” Thanks to generous donations from the community, they were able to not only purchase the property but exceed their funding needs, paving the way for exciting renovations.
Renovations in Full Swing
The renovations are already underway! The Mission has recently added a new roof and laid down fresh flooring, with plans for a new fence and exciting new coats of crisp white paint on the building’s exterior. Feistel emphasizes that while the improvements are vital, the ultimate goal is to make a space that is warmly inviting: “We want it to look respectable, legitimate and like a place that honors God and cares about people.”
Creating a Place That Feels Like Home
One of their big dreams? To build a chapel in place of an old soup kitchen that used to stand in front of the building. Feistel imagines this space as a kind of sanctuary for those who walk through their doors. “We want the men when they come in here for it to not just feel like an institute, but we want it to feel like somebody is at home and a place where their life can be changed.”
A Lifeline for Many
Each year, the Mission serves about 400 men, providing them with food, clothing, showers, and a comprehensive recovery program. One resident, Mitchell Morris, shares how his life transformed by being at the Mission: “This ministry saved my life because if I hadn’t come here and gone back to where I used to be, I would be dead or in prison.” Now, after four years, Morris is on staff at the Mission, serving at the front desk and helping others find the support they need.
He’s not alone in his journey. Eddy Folland, who works in the kitchen, reflects on his growth during his time at the Mission. “It brought me real close to the Lord. I learned the Bible, a lot of patience, and I learned that I do matter,” he says, illustrating the profound impact this community has on its members.
Fundraising to Sustain Their Mission
While the rescue mission’s ownership of the building is a significant milestone, operating costs still require ongoing fundraising efforts. Each day brings new challenges, and every bit of support helps keep this essential service running. You can catch their annual fundraiser live on their Facebook page on October 3 from 5-8 p.m. Before that time, donations can also be made directly to support their mission.
The Garden City Rescue Mission’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment for men in need is more important now than ever. As they embark on this journey of renovation and growth, the Augusta community’s support will be key in ensuring their mission continues to thrive and make a difference in lives, one day at a time.
