Season’s Greetings and Merry Christmas from Denver Rescue Mission!
As the holiday season warms hearts across Denver, the Mission continues its tradition of bringing joy, dignity and hope to neighbors overcoming hardship. This year, thanks to the incredible support of donors, volunteers, partners, and staff, we’ve once again created meaningful Christmas experiences for men, women and families across our community.
“Because of you, this Christmas, families who seemingly have so little will celebrate Christmas together with the hope that next year they truly will be home.”
Dennis Van Kampen, President/CEO
Christmas for Kids
To kick of the holiday celebrations, children at The Crossing took photos with Santa, decorated the Youth Center and shared the joy of Christmas with laughter, music and the warm spirit of community.
Parents and guardians of these children wrapped gifts for their kids, which were generously purchased by caring neighbors, like you, in the community! For families in our Emergency Family Shelter and Bridge program, receiving support and opportunities to make lasting holiday memories sparks a new hope during often some of the hardest times of their lives.
Bless Our Brothers
The men in the Mission’s New Life Program enjoyed a special Italian meal from Maggiano’s Little Italy — a meaningful expression of care that made the evening feel celebratory and personal. Beyond the meal, each man was invited to share a simple wish list, allowing the Mission to bless them with items they want, and wrapping hope and joy into every gift. To complete the night, participants received stockings filled with snacks, activity books and thoughtful items generously provided by donors.
“I truly believe this is the only Christmas gift I’m going to get this year. I haven’t gotten Christmas gifts in years. So, this is a blessing.”
Johnathan, New Life Program participant
Bridge Holiday Party
The festive spirit at The Crossing continued with the celebration for our Bridge program, fostering connection and meaningful moments between the program’s individuals and families and our staff, volunteers and a special guest:
Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin joined our guests for the evening — serving meals, and spending time with the kids in our Youth Center, decorating cookies, arm wrestling, signing items, and simply having fun. Because of your support, moments of belonging, dignity and joy like these made this Christmas truly special!
“I was once in these kinds of shoes, so giving back is something I always wanted to do.”
Troy Franklin, Denver Broncos Wide Receiver
Lawrence Street Community Center & 48th Avenue Center Banquets
At our two shelters, dedicated staff and volunteers prepared almost 1,000 Christmas meals that brought folks together around tables filled with good food and the joy of human connection. The warmth of a shared holiday meal reminded guests they are not alone and that a compassionate community surrounds them.
“I’m grateful to celebrate Christmas. They took care of me at Thanksgiving too. . . . I’m by myself; I don’t have my family, but I have the Lord with me.”
Joseph, Lawrence Street Community Center guest
Generous donors helped provide warm weather gear and thoughtful gifts to our guests, giving the gift that goes beyond tangible items: the gift of restoring worth, sparking joy and reminding every guest that they matter.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
None of this would be possible without the generous hearts of donors, volunteers and partners who give their time, resources and prayers. Together, we’re bringing hope, dignity and community connection to our most vulnerable neighbors — not just at Christmas, but year-round.
From all of us at the Denver Rescue Mission, Merry Christmas and blessings for the New Year!
