January 13th, 2023 by WCBC Radio

A community meeting organized by the Union Rescue Mission was held last night with concerned citizens, community leaders, and those in the homeless community. Pastor David Zeiler led the group of 52 in attendance on the history of the mission and its plans for relocating to 710 North Center Street with a goal of opening its doors in November of 2024. The Union Rescue Mission is in the process of developing a strategic plan switch from handing out model to helping up by implementing residential work programs and vocational training at their new facility. Questions were raised about criminal activity and its impact on the community, the safety of LGBTQ homeless, public transportation, an addiction programs being provided. A primary issue that was addressed is the lack of information and communication to the public about established services available in the community for the homeless population…

Cumberland Mayor Ray Morriss supportive of the work the mission performs for the community but also hinted of a non-religious organization also being developed behind the scenes.