Haven of Rest - "Hope and a Future"
On March 10th, the Haven of Rest Ministries Akron,OH hosted a banquet at the Hartville Kitchen for it's many donors, members and supporters to fellowship, share stories and hear how the Mission impacts the lives of hundreds in the Akron area. This year's theme was "Hope and a Future." It described how they continue to serve people of all backgrounds, helping them overcome substance abuse, homelessness and addictions. While their methods have changed over the years, the core mission is the same.
I had the unique opportunity to work with Ron Day, of Ron Day Productions to shoot and edit a video presentation which not only retold the history of the Haven, but also included interviews from residents who recently graduated the recovery program. In this, they overcame incredible setbacks and were able to start new chapters in their lives. It premiered to a packed house of over 500 people. Even though I watched it dozens of times when editing, it was still emotional hearing of the changes in peoples lives, due to the effort of a few visionaries. It was a pleasure working with you Ron Day, looking forward to the next time!
Incredibly, in 2019, the Haven of Rest provided over 60,000 nights of lodging and served hundreds of thousands of meals to those in need. They offer counselling services, skill evaluations, technical training and help for individuals working towards high school diplomas and GEDs. Computer training in modern software allows residents to become more employable when they leave. Through "Life Application Bible Studies," those living in temporary housing are exposed to a completely different way of life from what they are used to when reentering society. It is so much more than a homeless shelter.
From my perspective, it was inspirational to hear how the Haven of Rest has dedicated themselves to meet the various needs of men, women and children who desperately need it. While in their early history, they sought to address alcoholism (a scourge during the Great Depression), this has morphed recently to focus on opiates and heroin which is ravaging Akron today.
Homelessness which is often an effect of other problems in someone's life, can only be addressed by getting to root causes in someones life. Whether that is a problem with addictions, substance abuse, unemployment, illness, or having a criminal background, the Haven seeks to understand those challenges and remedy them so one can be re-introduced into society. They don't receive financial support from government and employ a strict code of financial accountability. This ensures the majority of their income goes directly to support their mission and the people who desperately need the help.
Their Bible-centered, goal oriented program is designed to provide any individual a future that overshadows their past. They are a living example of what the Bible describes as a "good Samaritan."
If you haven't yet, consider connecting with, volunteering for or donating to their cause, please do! It will make a huge difference in the lives of those most in need.
