For nearly 60 years, Rescue Mission programs and service have been driven by the desire to introduce people to Jesus Christ, meeting their basic human needs and offering connection within our community through relationships.
The Mission is entirely privately funded.
Photo Credit: Frederick Rescue Mission
The Frederick Rescue Mission
A Brief History of the Frederick Rescue Mission
In 1964, the Frederick Rescue Mission started with a ten-bed shelter for homeless men and a thrift store, creating a ministry that has touched tens of thousands of lives.
In 1984, the Mission purchased the old Frederick County jail on West South Street, transforming it into a beacon of hope and healing.
In 1997, the Changed Life Recovery Program was created to address the cores issues of addiction.
In our 52nd year, the Mission celebrated the upgrade of a small grocery isle, which had been located within the Mission’s walls, to the current stand-alone Food Distribution Center. This enabled us to serve greater numbers of individuals in need, specifically around food security.
The majority of the families served are described in the ALICE Report, as they are employed, trying to make ends meet, and needing to stretch their food dollar.
In December 2016, Faith House, a shelter for women and women with children experiencing homelessness opened, and in 2020, we expanded by adding the Faith House Transitional Living Program. This year-long program provides a supportive environment for up to 19 women and 16 children.
In December 2018, the Mission opened the George L Shields Bread of Life Kitchen, replacing a dilapidated 1928 kitchen. Now a safe and encouraging environment exists for our staff, men, and dedicated volunteers.
What began as a ten-bed shelter is now Frederick’s largest transitional shelter for men. No other agency in Frederick serves more meals or provides more food items to the hungry and homeless men and women, and children.
Serving for nearly 60 years, the Frederick Rescue Mission and its life-changing programs are still making a difference – changing lives now and for eternity.
Photo Credit: Frederick Rescue Mission
Current Services Provided by the Frederick Rescue Mission
The Frederick Rescue Mission provides a variety of community services including:
- Food to the hungry – free breakfast and lunch every day of the year
- Free fresh and non-perishable groceries
- Free clothing, shoes and personal care items
- Shelter for women and women with children
- Residential recovery program for men suffering from homelessness or chemical addiction.
“The Mission wants to be known as more than a provider of food resources, more than a place that shelters the homeless, and more than where men are set free from addiction. We desire to be known as a place of hope, where lives are changed by the love of Jesus.” – The Frederick Rescue Mission
Photo Credit: Frederick Rescue Mission
How to Support The Frederick Rescue Mission
Time: Volunteer! Diverse jobs that suit all interests.
Talent: Offer a professional service or teach a class in the men or women’s programs
Treasure: Donate cash and in-kind items (list of current needs on our website)
Upcoming Frederick Rescue Mission Events
Put these on your calendar and come out to support the Mission!
Jesus Alive Celebration: 4/15 1:30-3:30 – Free groceries, clothing; treats for children
51st Annual Fundraising Banquet: 6/2 6:00pm
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