Gov. Snyder, volunteers helping homeless families at Lansing’s City Rescue Mission

Governor says everyone can play a role in helping communities

LANSING, Mich. – December 13, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — Gov. Rick Snyder and other volunteers are working Friday to help make the holidays brighter for some struggling families and call attention to the need to assist the homeless in Lansing and beyond.

Snyder and the volunteers are working with City Rescue Mission Women and Children shelter, 2216 S. Cedar Street in Lansing. The group will join rescue mission employees in organizing donated toys for women staying at the shelter to give their children.

The governor will be joined by shelter employees, Michigan Community Service Commission members and members of his staff. The media is welcome to attend the event between 2 and 2:30 p.m.

City Rescue Mission is a 102-year-old non-profit organization that offers homeless families meals, a place to stay and other assistance. The mission is the largest emergency shelter in the Lansing area, with 58 beds for men and 100 beds for women and children.

“There are Michiganders who are struggling this holiday season and during the rest of the year,” Snyder said. “I’m grateful for groups like City Rescue Mission for the vital role they play in our communities. These groups often need some help. There are opportunities for all of us to step up and lend a hand. I encourage all Michiganders to find ways to help improve the quality of life in their community and our state.”

City Rescue Mission opens its doors 365 days a year, and serves more than 100,000 meals annually and provides emergency shelter for 1,500 women and children. The group’s one-year Rehabilitation and Life transportation program helps people deal with drug and alcohol issues.

“Few people realize that the largest growing population of homelessness is in the area of women and children, said Mark Criss, the mission’s executive director. “About 60 percent of our guests are women and children who need somewhere to call home until they can get their own place.”

Friday’s event is part of the “Do Something” initiative, which helps Michiganders get connected to volunteer opportunities, share their stories of volunteerism or successes in the state, and pledge to get others involved.

Through DoSomethingMichigan.com, participants can get information on various volunteer opportunities. Users also may text “ACTION” to 25827 or call 1-855-440-6424 to get involved.

“Do Something Michigan is a wonderful way for people to get involved,” Snyder said. “Everyone can make a difference in their community and be an ambassador for our state, and this is a great opportunity to take part. Let’s do something!”