Early Christmas Dinner at the Mission |
The Orlando Union Rescue Mission has been caring for the hungry and hurting in the Orlando area since its founding in 1948 by a group of Christian businessmen. H.B. Austin, Joseph P. Rutland, S.B. Peele, C.E. Parsons, E.P. Martin, J.P. Lowery, George Stuart and M.J. Wiggins met at the Broadway Methodist Church with Reverend Harry Moore to establish the non-stock, non-profit corporation.
The City of Orlando and Central Florida churches enthusiastically supported the founding of the new Rescue Mission. Rev. John Horan was chosen to serve as the Mission's first Director.
Rev. Horan with Sunday School children |
The Mission's first home was at 919 West Central Boulevard. Soon a more suitable location was found at 225 Boone Street, where it remained until the First National Bank (now SunTrust) expanded in 1954. Next the Mission moved to 211 West Central Boulevard where it remained until the expansion of Interstate 4 mandated another move.
Rev. Horan bought the old New England Hotel at 410 West Central Boulevard from Mr. Charles Burner, who said he felt led by the Lord to sell it to the Mission.
Eugene Kelsey and his son remodeled the building to meet the needs of the Mission. It opened in July, 1960 and was officially dedicated to the Lord in October of that year
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George Stuart, Rev. John Horan, Locke Miller, Eugene Kelsey at groundbreaking |
| In January 1972, ground was broken for a new building behind the existing building to house a registration office, warehouse, and a 44-bed dormitory. Due to generous donors, the money was raised for the addition without a fund drive.
The new building was dedicated to Eugene Kelsey, a friend of the Mission who served on the Board from 1953-1957. He drew the original plans of the Mission and was chairman of the building committee after serving on the Board.
The large red-and-white cross atop the Men's Division was declared an historic landmark. With the words "God Is Love, Christ Is Savior," it became a beacon to the community and its message has provided solace to many people over the years.
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During its first 25 years the Mission primarily helped men in their 50's and 60's. However, in the early 70's a new wave of homeless mothers and small children began arriving on the Mission's doorsteps. The number of homeless single mothers and families continued growing as the demographics of the homeless population underwent a dramatic change. Homeless families now comprise 40% of the homeless population in our country. The average age of homeless men is now 35, while the average age of homeless females is 27. In 1988, the Orlando Union Rescue Mission opened a special facility for homeless single mothers, families and single women. A special program was developed to restore families to a firm foundation built on a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Don Moody and OUR Mission Home Construction |
Since 1988 OUR Mission Home has helped over a thousand families gain secure employment, achieve self-sufficiency, become active in local churches and to grow in grace and spiritual maturity.
OUR Mission Home & Family Life Center |
In a continuing effort to increase opportunities for self-improvement to our residents, the Orlando Union Rescue Mission built a multi-purpose Family Life Center in 1998. The 23,000 sq. ft. facility includes classrooms, the Career Learning Center, a library, full-size gymnasium, a nursery and child care and an exercise area. |
