Continuing A Legacy Of Compassion, Together
Rescue missions first were born out of the evangelical Christian movement in the late nineteenth century. They were founded by believers who understood that compassion and the Gospel could never be separated, that meeting a person’s immediate physical needs opened the door to sharing the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ.
Following the Civil War, cities across America saw an overwhelming increase in poverty, homelessness, addiction, and brokenness. In response, Christians established Gospel rescue missions that offered food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless, and the life-changing message of salvation through Jesus Christ. These ministries became places where lives were not only cared for but transformed, laying the foundation for the rescue mission movement that continues today.
That same vision found its way to Idaho Falls.
Before Idaho Falls Rescue Mission (IFRM) was a building, or a shelter, it was a burden placed on the hearts of a group of Christian men who saw a growing need in our community. IFRM exists because the Church obeyed God’s call. At the time, Idaho Falls had resources for women and families, but there was no place for single men experiencing homelessness to find shelter, hope, or the Gospel. Believing God was calling them to respond, they established a men’s shelter in 1998 with a simple but profound vision: to provide help, hope, and a future through the power and love of Jesus Christ.
The ministry began in a small building on Park Avenue known as the City of Refuge, a fitting name that reflected God’s heart for those seeking safety and restoration. With just eight beds, limited financial resources, and a deep dependence on God’s provision, the doors opened in faith.
Over the years, the ministry continued to grow and evolve. As new programs and facilities were established, including Ruth House and Serving Hope, the work expanded to meet the changing needs of our community. In 2014, these ministries were united under one name: Idaho Falls Rescue Mission, reflecting a shared mission to provide help, hope, and a future through the power and love of Jesus Christ.
Pastors served on the Board of Directors, churches prayed faithfully, members of local congregations joined our staff, volunteered their time, and gave generously of their talents and resources. From the very beginning, local churches have played an essential role in this ministry. The impact of those faithful congregations in our earliest years remains evident in the foundation they helped build. We are deeply grateful for every church and every believer who has partnered with this mission over the years.
As the ministry continued to grow, so did the network of churches standing beside it. Today, with the support of 23 churches from Rexburg to Malad City, Idaho Falls Rescue Mission continues to stand because God has faithfully worked through His Church.
As our community continues to grow and the challenges facing our neighbors become more complex, so does the opportunity before us. The need has changed, but the calling has not. Just as churches came together to establish this ministry nearly three decades ago, we believe God is continuing to invite His Church to bring the hope of Christ to those who need it most.
The Church’s Ministry Continues
The needs facing our community today may look different than they did in 1998, but they are no less urgent. Every day, men, women, and families walk through our doors searching for more than food or shelter. They are searching for hope.
Because of faithful church partnerships, Idaho Falls Rescue Mission is able to provide:
- Emergency shelter
- Nutritious meals and food boxes
- Biblical recovery program
- Case management
- Clothing and essential resources
- Most importantly, the hope of Jesus Christ
Every meal served is an opportunity to share the Gospel.
Every volunteer becomes the hands and feet of Christ.
Every prayer reminds someone they have not been forgotten.
The rescue mission has never been about replacing the local church. It has always existed to extend the Church’s reach into our community, serving those who may never walk through a church’s front doors until someone first meets them where they are.
One Church. One Mission.
One of the greatest blessings we have witnessed over the past twenty-eight years is watching the Body of Christ come together with one purpose: to make Jesus known.
God’s Church is not confined to a denomination or a building. It is made up of people who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ and trust in the truth of His Word. While our congregations may gather in different places each Sunday, we are united by one Savior, one Gospel, and one calling. (Ephesians 4:4-6)
At Idaho Falls Rescue Mission, we have the privilege of seeing that unity lived out every day. Churches of many denominations faithfully pray, serve meals, lead Bible studies, mentor guests, volunteer their time, support financially, and proclaim the hope of Christ together. Each church brings unique gifts, yet every act of service points to the same Savior.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12 that the Church is one body with many members. Each member has a different role, but all are essential. In the same way, Idaho Falls Rescue Mission is not separate from the Church, it is one expression of the Church’s mission to reach those who are hungry, hurting, and searching for hope.
As we look toward the future, our prayer is not simply for more support, but for deeper partnership. We desire to see more churches united in serving our community, making disciples, and demonstrating the love of Christ through both word and deed. Together, we can continue the legacy that began more than a century ago and remains just as vital today.
How Can YOUR Church Partner?
- Pray – Pray for our guests, staff, volunteers, and the continued proclamation of the Gospel.
- Serve – Prepare meals, volunteer as a group, lead a Bible study, mentor, or help with special projects.
- Share – Invite Idaho Falls Rescue Mission to speak at your church, missions committee, or small group.
- Give – Support the ministry financially or organize a donation drive for high-need items.
- Connect – Schedule a tour of our facilities and discover firsthand how God is transforming lives through the partnership of His Church.
