March, 2026

Dear Friend,

Two weeks ago, I received a text message from “B.”

“I just wanted to tell you, I decided to move out. I found a place close to work. I just feel like the Holy Spirit is telling me it’s time. I’m taking up a bed for someone who needs the help I so desperately needed… It’s bittersweet. You and your family have loved me. Thank you for believing in me enough for me to change my life.”

There was no ceremony. No applause. Just a quiet decision from a 46-year-old man who once wondered if real change was possible.

When “B” first arrived, he had already been through multiple programs. Alcohol had held his life for years. His relationship with his mother was strained. He was estranged from his children. His first few months with us were unsteady — a few days sober, then drinking, then trying again.

I remember sitting down with him during that season and speaking honestly about his potential, his walk with Christ, and where his life was headed if nothing changed. It wasn’t dramatic. It was simply truthful.

And slowly, something clicked… The drinking stopped. His studies in our G.R.A.C.E. Program became focused. His attitude changed. Even before graduating, he secured work in the culinary field — a profession he continues to grow in today. After completing G.R.A.C.E., he entered our Barnabas Program and transitional housing. Over time, family relationships began to mend. Trust was rebuilt. Conversations were restored.

He successfully completed both programs. For a while, he still didn’t feel ready to leave. Five years is a long journey. Growth takes time.

But two weeks ago, he was ready.

He chose to move out not because he was pushed — but because he sensed it was time. And because he knew another man needed the bed he once so desperately needed.

Stories like “B”’s do not happen overnight. They happen through steady investment — through structure, mentoring, accountability, prayer, and the kind of faithful support that keeps our doors open year after year.

For more than five years, there was a bed available for “B”. Programs were in place. Mentors were present. That consistency exists because friends like you remain faithful.

Continued on back

Today, another man is in those early, uncertain months. His story is still being written. We don’t yet know how it will unfold. But because of your continued partnership, he has the same opportunity “B” had — the chance to grow, to heal, and one day to say, “It’s time.”

As we move into this new season, will you continue standing with men like “B”? A gift of $50, $100, or $250 helps provide the structure, mentoring, and stable housing that make long-term transformation possible. Your generosity today ensures there is always a bed ready when someone finally decides he wants his life to change.

You can also make an additional commitment to help us open up “8 More Beds” as well!

Thank you for being part of these quiet victories.

Serving Christ and the Community,

Rev. Jon Rector
Executive Director
Union Gospel Mission (Chattanooga Outreach)

P.S. Five years ago, “B” walked in unsure if he could change. Two weeks ago, he walked out ready to give his bed to someone else. Your gift today ensures that when the next man is ready — truly ready — we are ready too.

I’LL CONTINUE TO STAND IN 2026!

Here is my gift of $ _______________ to help where needed.

My ADDITIONAL gift to help “Buy the Foot”! $ ____________________ For “8 More Lives!”

Name: __________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________

Enclosed is ¨ check ¨ money order, or please charge my credit card: ¨ Master Card ¨ Visa ¨ AmEx ¨ Disc

Card #: ________ Exp. Date: CVC#_______ Signature: ______________________

Address: _______________________________ City: _____________________ State: _____ Zip:________

If it is more convenient for you, you can give digitally through our website (theuniongospelmission.org), Venmo (@UGM-Donate), or CashApp ($UGMChattOutreach)!

March 2026