Rescue Mission celebrates 70

Also, Jenkins Dentistry named Project Access Provider of the Month

This article is brought to you by Freedom Financial.

Homelessness was an issue in Kokomo in 1953. It was then that the Kokomo Rescue Mission was founded to provide aid and comfort to those without a place to stay or a meal to eat.

Seventy years later, the Mission and its purpose haven’t changed. But its reach has grown. Last week, the Kokomo Rescue Mission celebrated 70 years in existence with a party filled with smiling faces and fun.

Mission executive director Kevin Smith emceed the celebration and gave credit to the driving force behind the organization.

“This is an evening we want to celebrate,” said Smith. “We want to we want to have fun. But we acknowledge this every day. God is our source. God's the source of all we do.”

There was live music, bounce houses and games for the kids, food and snacks, and plenty of information about the Mission and its programs. Other organizations, such as the Kokomo Howard County Public Library also participated by sharing information about the services they provide.

Mayor Tyler Moore was on hand to give a proclamation, recognizing the Mission’s 70 years of service. It was actually the second honorary “Kokomo Rescue Mission Day” proclaimed by the mayor this year; the first occurring on Feb. 1.

“One of the things I love to have the opportunity to do is issue proclamations, recognizing milestones in organizations’ or individuals’ lives,” said Moore.

The Kokomo Rescue Mission was founded in 1953 to serve the homeless and the hungry. Over the past 70 years, the Mission has shared the love of Jesus Christ through acts of service. Each year, the Mission serves more than 90,000 meals to those in need. It maintains three separate shelters for the homeless along with a long-term residential program.

The Mission also operates a Care and Share store, where clothing and other items are donated and sold to help support the organization and to provide for those in need.

“I encourage all residents to congratulate and help celebrate the Kokomo Rescue Mission and its Christ-centered commitment to our community and its residents these past 70 years,” said Moore.

Jenkins Dentistry named Project Access Provider of the Month

Project Access recognizes Jenkins Family Dentistry as its Provider of the Month for August 2023. Jenkins opened its doors in April 2021 and began collaborating with Project Access in 2022.

“Project Access is grateful for their assistance with helping the county's clients in receiving dental care,” said Jill Snyder, Project Access director. “Thank you to Dr. Jenkins and his staff!”

Project Access is a nonprofit organization formed by the cooperative efforts of medical professionals in the community. Its goal is to provide support, education, and access to healthcare for local residents. Many medical providers offer their services through Project Access at reduced or no cost for those who qualify financially. For additional information, visit www.projectaccesshoco.org.