Rockford Rescue Mission says donations lag $430K, leading to first budget shortfall in 14 years
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — The Rockford Rescue Mission has put out a plea for funding as its donations lag about $430,000 behind the annual budget.
The Christian-centered nonprofit operates on a roughly $8 million annual budget, and this is the first time it has seen a shortfall since 2009, according to Ted Tomita, its chief development officer.
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The last shortfall came toward the end of The Great Recession. This time, it comes as inflationary pressures have affected food prices, staff wages and other costs.
“That has hurt many of our donors as well,” Tomita said. “They’re not able to donate, potentially, as much as in the past.”
The Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., serves more than 420 meals each day and provides nearly 4,800 nights of shelter for guests each month. It also offers recovery programs to help the homeless, or those battling addiction or mental illness, turn their lives around and become self-sufficient.
Tomita said the Mission is working to reduce its costs without cutting vital programs and services.
“It puts some of our programs and services in jeopardy, hopefully we don’t have to get there,” he said.
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It doesn’t receive any state or federal funding, relying instead on donations and revenue from its Thrift Store, 2710 20th St.
“Our community is known for its generosity,” said Sherry Pitney, CEO of the Rockford Rescue Mission. “During this season of giving, we are asking individuals, churches, organizations and businesses for their combined help in continuing to serve our hurting neighbors.”
How to help
Donations can be made online at rockfordrescuemission.org or mailed to Rockford Rescue Mission, 715 W. State St., Rockford, IL 61102.
For more information, email info@rockfordrescuemission.org or call 815-965-5332.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
