Denver Rescue Mission has been serving people experiencing homelessness and poverty in our community since 1892. Deeply rooted in our history is a love of Christ and a desire to share that love with others through critical services and life-changing programs.

Through the tireless efforts of our staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters, we’ve been able to continue the Mission’s work for more than a century.

Mission Milestones

In 1892, Joshua Gravett opened a home for former prostitutes called “Market Street Mission,” with a vision to see broken lives restored. Today, as Denver Rescue Mission, his vision is still the driving force behind all we do for homeless men, women and children.

In 1988, the Mission acquired Mercy Farm in Wellington, Colorado, and renamed it Harvest Farm.

The Mission started its first computer-based Literacy and Education Center, an award-winning program providing men and women staying at the Mission with the opportunity to improve their academic skills and life skills.  

Cowles Media donated a 37,000-square-foot building to become the Ministry Outreach Center, serving as the central warehouse for food, clothing and furniture.

Our family outreach was founded by former Bronco, Mike Horan, and his wife, Kim, and ministered exclusively to homeless working families.   

Brad Meuli becomes President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mission.

The Mission purchased a 94,000-square-foot former hotel on Smith Road and named it The Crossing. After extensive renovation, this facility is now home to the New Life Program for men in Denver, the STAR transitional program for families in need and the New Life Post-Graduate program.

In November 2005, the Family Services was developed to incorporate our three family and transitional programs:

  • STAR Transitional Program: Provides affordable transitional program for up to 90 homeless families at The Crossing. Each family is matched with a case manager to guide them toward self-sufficiency.
  • Family Rescue Ministry (FRM): Provides assistance for permanent housing and mentoring for homeless working families and disabled families to help them rebuild their lives.
  • Family Refugee Services (FRS): Provides housing assistance and other services for refugee families as they transition to a new life in the United States.

In November, Denver Rescue Mission acquired Open Door Mission in Fort Collins, just 9 miles from Harvest Farm, and renamed it Fort Collins Rescue Mission (FCRM) to transform the lives of men and women.  

A warehouse on Holly Street was purchased, providing 15,000 more square feet than the previous warehouse. The Mission also purchased Pilgrim’s Rest Church to serve as a new site for the Administrative offices.

The Mission opened a safe, drug- and alcohol-free community center for people experiencing homelessness to go to during the day. The courtyard serves as a queuing area for men and women waiting to access various Mission services.

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