Church of Jesus Christ donates $300,000 to aid the homeless in Montana

The Butte Rescue Mission has received a $300,000 contribution from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help finalize its new Center of Hope, a facility aimed at expanding services for individuals and families facing homelessness in the Butte area.

The funding will support the completion of the kitchen and dining hall, spaces that provide meals and a safe, stable environment for community members in crisis.

“This completed Center of Hope building reflects the generosity of our community,” said Brayton Erickson, executive director of the mission. “Through the support of churches, individuals, and partners, this project and this gift are a powerful example of a community coming together so no one has to face homelessness or hopelessness alone.”

The Butte Rescue Mission, a nonprofit organization with more than 50 years of service in the community, offers programs including emergency shelter, free clothing and meal assistance, food box distribution, transportation services, parenting and cooking classes, faith-based recovery groups, medical care access, and community outreach.

“With a dedicated staff of 19, BRM provides a wide range of services addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery,” Erickson said. “Completion of the Center of Hope will provide a safe, trauma-informed environment and allow BRM to expand service capacity by 25 percent, reaching an estimated 1,750 individuals in the first year.”

In addition to financial support, local members of the Church contributed hands-on assistance. On Feb. 11, church volunteers helped staff move into the new facility, assisting with lifting and moving items, assembling furniture, and organizing clothing and supplies.

“When we serve our fellow men, we are serving God,” said Curtis Andrews, a local church leader. “There is nothing that is more important at this time in the world than following Jesus’ example in these things.”

The donation and volunteer efforts highlight the ongoing collaboration between faith-based organizations and local nonprofits to provide vital services to Montana residents in need.