This time last year, Elisa had nowhere else to turn for a meal, a roof over her head, or a safe place to sleep. Thanks to support from caring friends and donors, she received a warm welcome here at Nashville Rescue Mission.

“It’s not easy to be homeless. It’s not easy being sick and homeless,” Elisa says. “It’s not easy being homeless, period.”

Many years before, Elisa had gone through a difficult time in life and had found the critical support she needed at the Mission to get back on her feet—help that included a winter coat. “It was winter,” she says. “I remember I didn’t have any winter clothes.”

Remembering the many kindnesses that were such a help and comfort to her then—when Elisa needed to launch a new beginning in life—she once again walked through the Mission doors, hoping she could find the tools and encouragement.

As a Christ-centered Mission, Christmas is always a special time. Elisa will never forget the festive atmosphere as staff, volunteers, and guests went all out to make the holiday season a time of joy for every man, woman, and child.

“Christmas last year was really nice. It was a blessing,” Elisa says, remembering the twinkling lights, holiday décor, and delicious meals.

“The food was great, and they did a lot for the kids,” she says. “They had the Christmas tree up [and] the guests helped decorate it.”

Nashville Rescue Mission does more than feed the hungry and shelter those without homes. Neighbors like Elisa can access programs and services that promote healing by focusing on the entire person’s physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social needs.

“If you need a place to stay, Nashville Rescue Mission is the place to go,” Elisa says, shaking her head as she recalls facing hunger and homelessness.

Yet even as she worked to rebuild her life, Elisa has faced significant challenges in the past year, including health issues and the unexpected and devastating passing of her youngest daughter. “If I wasn’t here [at the Mission], I think I would have killed myself,” she says with tears filling her eyes.

But being surrounded by caring people in a faith-focused environment gave Elisa the support and encouragement she needed to cope with her grief and trust in God’s plans for her future . . .

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

Elisa will have a very different Christmas this year, thanks to the prayers and partnership of friends who support Nashville Rescue Mission’s important work.

For you, she has these words to share in the hope you will continue to support the lifesaving, life-changing services and programs that have impacted her so deeply . . .

“It’s good here. It’s a good place . . . keep this place open and help as many as you can.”

Thank you for partnering with Nashville Rescue Mission again today to share meals, shelter, and life-changing resources with neighbors in despair—at Christmas.