Head of rescue mission sees immediate needs
By Chris Walker (Contact)
Originally published 01:04 p.m., October 16, 2007
Updated 01:04 p.m., October 16, 2007
“Conversation” is a question-and-answer interview with a local person. This week’s interview is with the Rev. Michael Paddy, the new executive director of the Emporia Rescue Mission and the Abundant Harvest Food Kitchen. He recently moved from Seattle to take the job.
Q What is your background?
A I went to missionary training and our goal was to get to the mission field and work with tribal people in jungle areas. That is where we ended up for 10 years in the Philippines. I came back tired and overworked from just trying to do too much.
After that, I really felt that my wife and I were called to help hurting people. That led us to work in rescue missions. We worked many years with City Team ministries fixing broken-down missions. But they are a huge corporate entity and I just felt a little lost.
Q Tell us about the shelter in Seattle. What is the biggest difference between the homeless in Seattle and Emporia?
A The shelter in Seattle was big. We were sheltering a 100 people a night and 25 guys in a long-term recovery program. In one year, we served 80,000 meals. The homeless in Seattle are literally street people who are filthy and in disarray. The people who are here are people who are hurting or have past drug and alcohol problems. But the people here are clean. I hope the people here are easier to reach. I want people to remember that these are not my poor or homeless but these are people who reside in Emporia. These are our neighbors and friends. And we all need to help to lift these people up.
Q What needs do you have?
A We really have six immediate needs. One is infrastructure. We need a desktop computer, a laptop and fax machine. We also have some facility issues. We need a part-time cook. We are looking for someone 55 and over. And the reason is the state will help subsidize that. We need volunteers to help serve meals. We also need men to mentor men staying at the shelter. We also need money. We are entirely funded by private donations.
Q What is one of your goals?
A Right now we feed people four nights a week and my goal is to be feeding people seven nights a week. That is why we need volunteers. Because to make that happen, would take 50 to 60 extra volunteers.
F If you have a desktop or laptop computer or other donations to give the Emporia Rescue Mission or Abundant Harvest, call Michael Paddy at 342-7439.