Fairhaven Rescue Mission, Inc.

Fairhaven Rescue Mission, Inc. is a Christian nonprofit organization located in Covington, Kentucky. It provides essential services to at-risk individuals, focusing on food, housing, and recovery support.

History

The mission's origins trace back to the early 1970s when community members from Calvary Baptist Church began ministering to neglected and abused inner-city children. This effort evolved into the Banklick Street Mission in 1974. Over time, the mission expanded its services under different leadership, eventually becoming Fairhaven Rescue Mission in 1984. The organization was formally incorporated by local professionals and businesspeople, marking it as a community-based, inter-denominational ministry[2].

Services

Fairhaven Rescue Mission offers a range of services aimed at helping individuals regain stability in their lives. These include:

• Overnight Shelter Services: The mission provides shelter primarily for men, with 14 beds available for temporary housing and two beds for longer-term care. Residents must pass a breathalyzer test and present valid identification to access these services[1].
• Food and Grocery Support: Daily meals are prepared for men, women, and families. In 2023, the mission served over 24,720 meals and distributed groceries to numerous individuals. A significant portion of their food is donated from local restaurants and grocery stores[1].
• New Life Program: This residential program is designed for men dealing with issues like chemical dependency or employment challenges. Participants engage in a work schedule, classwork, and counseling while maintaining a part-time job and are required to save a majority of their earnings. The goal is to help participants achieve stability and independence[1].
• Thrift Store: Located separately, the thrift store helps fund the mission's services and provides clothing vouchers to those in need[1].

Volunteer Engagement

The success of Fairhaven Rescue Mission is heavily reliant on volunteer support. Volunteers assist with food pickups, kitchen duties, evening dinner services, and thrift store operations. Over 75 volunteers contribute to the mission's activities, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in its operations[3].

Mission Statement

Fairhaven Rescue Mission is dedicated to meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the homeless and hurting in Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati area[5]. The organization's approach emphasizes compassion and order, recognizing that every individual's circumstances are unique and deserving of support[1].