Real Change, Not Spare Change 

Jeff's Jots
Winter, 2008

Let me take you back in time to 1980. My cousin was in school in Chicago and I was paying a “tourist” visit. As we walked through the city, we were accosted by homeless people on almost every street corner.

My cousin told me the students were instructed not to talk to the homeless, and certainly not to give money. Instead, they were encouraged to work with the local rescue mission.

Well, I visited the local rescue mission, and I was so underwhelmed that the experience haunted me for years. These people were in such incredible need—and the services were so weak. That was the beginning of my journey to become executive director of the Redwood Gospel Mission.

I wonder if you, too, are unsure what to do if a homeless person asks you for money or food? If so, this year’s issues of Real Change will help—return to the newsletterfor the first in a series of practical tips.

Here at the Mission, we consistently work to provide excellent care for everyone God sends us. And we’ve been blessed with compassionate friends like you who make it all possible.

Last year was our most outstanding year of ministry! Through your support, we served more people than ever
before at our year-end holiday events.We had the largest graduating class from our women’s Manna Home and
men’s New Life program.We acquired a new facility that will expand our ministry and job training programs. And as you’ll read in the story of Del, we have a new and larger thrift store.

I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us in 2008. I look forward to sharing with you more stories of lives
changed by your generosity, like Kirk and Teresa in this issue. Please continue your support for the least, the lost, and the last this new year!

Thanking God for you,

Jeff Gilman
Executive Director