The Geauga County Rescue Mission receives a timely anonymous gift

CHARDON, Ohio — Receiving a gift feels good and maybe even better when it’s unexpected.

The Geauga Faith Rescue Mission in Chardon got quite a surprise when it looked at its financial records.

An anonymous donor gave the faith-based nonprofit $104,000.

Anthony Aldridge has lived at the Rescue Mission for the past two months.

“How has your trip been?” I asked him.

Aldridge said: “It was tough. It was tough, but these guys have been here all the way and it was humbling.”

The transitional and supportive housing program helps men like Aldridge access medical services, transportation, employment and more.

“Our goal is to give them a comprehensive wellness program that tries to meet them where they are at… what practices, what habits need to change to be successful,” said Nathan Long, executive director of the Rescue Mission.

The organization’s program director, Claud Nystrom, said the work is sometimes challenging but rewarding.

“We are here to honor God, and by showing love to these individuals and guiding them through the process, we are showing love to God,” Nystrom said.

The house, on Washington Street, can accommodate up to six men.

“Without this, I think a lot of people would have a lot more problems, and they’re doing a lot of good here,” Aldridge said.

Recently, Long received a call from the board’s treasurer, who had a big question about a financial report.

“And I pulled out my bank account and went to the loan, and the loan said, ‘Closed,’” Long said.

He quickly went to the community bank for more information.

“Someone had had a few days before… and simply wrote a check and paid the remaining balance of $104,000.”

It was indeed true; someone paid off the mortgage on the men’s shelter.

A letter from the donor stated that they wanted to remain anonymous.

Long read part of the letter which said: “The Geauga Faith Rescue Mission reminds us all that there is still much good in this world during difficult times. And may we never lose faith in God and humanity. May you continue to change the world for the better, one person at a time.”

The gift couldn’t have come at a better time, as the Rescue Mission is in the process of purchasing the house next door to open a women’s shelter that can accommodate up to four people at a time.

“We receive calls almost every day from someone who needs shelter. And so now we’re placing women in a hotel program, but it’s not really meeting the needs of our county,” Long said.

Chardon’s planning commission has approved the house for use as a women’s shelter.

“But we should still be able to raise about $300,000 to purchase the property and then do all the necessary renovations,” Long said.

Despite tight budgets and sometimes concerns about how things will get accomplished, Nathan said needs are always met one way or another.

He said he and the board are grateful for all donors: those they know and those they don’t.

“Our goal is to have a place here in Geauga County that is a legacy of compassion,” Long said.

Aldridge works at a local gas station and hopes to have his own place soon.

“And these guys (Geauga Faith Rescue Mission) will always be there to help me… when I’m in trouble for advice and otherwise,” Aldridge said.

More information about the Geauga Faith Rescue Mission can be found on its website websiteincluding ways to make a donation.