Spring Newsletter 2026

Dear Friend, Spring is a season of renewal, and across Hope Gospel Mission, we are seeing new life take root in meaningful ways. Every day, men, women and women with children come through our doors seeking help, but more than that, seeking hope. What encourages me most is not only what God has already done, but what He continues to do as lives are rebuilt and fulfilled. Hearts soften. Faith grows. New beginnings unfold. At Hope Gospel Mission, our focus remains clear: to offer life-changing help to those working to overcome addiction, mental health struggles and homelessness. Whether it is a man taking his first steps toward freedom and stability or a mother finding renewed strength for her family, transformation happens here. I also want to share updates on our new program, the Community Haven House — Day Resource Center. This warm, welcoming place is now in action, at its wonderful new location, providing much-needed services to our community, all in one convenient spot. Those receiving help here also have access to our recovery programs if they choose to continue with longer-term care. As I look ahead to the months to come, I am confident that God has good work planned for this year. Thank you for standing with us, praying for this ministry and investing in lives that are being changed for good. Sincerely, Sandi Polzin  Executive Director Hope Gospel Mission

When Isaac arrived at Hope Gospel Mission, he came from one of the hardest moments of his life. After a mental health crisis and hospital stay, he found himself without a home and unsure where to turn next. Doctors recommended Hope Gospel Mission as a place where he could find support and begin again.

“I was at my lowest,” Isaac recalls. “And it was right then that ‘hope’ was mentioned.” What he needed most in that moment was exactly what Hope Gospel Mission offered, not just a place to stay, but hope for healing, structure and a future worth rebuilding.

Hope Gospel Mission became a turning point for Isaac as he worked toward healing and renewal. Through classes, group discussions and daily routines, he found tools that reshaped how he sees himself and his future. “Being here helps me develop my faith,” he explains. “Talking in groups with other guys also helps you realize you’re not alone. This all makes a big difference for me.”

In just four months, Isaac began to notice real change. “I’m not as angry. I don’t snap like I used to,” he explains. Even those closest to him have seen the transformation. “My son already notices a difference in me,” he shares with a smile. Isaac treasures the time he gets to spend with his 14-year-old son during weekly visits and phone calls. “I keep reminding him that this is hard right now, but things will be better. I will be a better father.”

Today, Isaac focuses on the future with clarity and purpose. He’s working through classes, receives trauma-informed counseling and prepares for life beyond the program, including studying for a CCNA certification in information technology. “I don’t want to walk out of here wondering what’s next. I’m planning ahead.”

When asked what he would like donors to know, Isaac took a moment to reflect and prepare his thoughts. “Thank you. This place wouldn’t be here without you,” he says. “You may not see it, but the men here appreciate every bit of support. Knowing there are people standing behind us, praying for us and believing in us means more than you know.”

The new Community Haven House - Day Resource Center officially opened its doors at its new location on December 29, 2025, serving individuals experiencing homelessness throughout our community.

Located at 1 Better Way, Eau Claire, within our agency partner Western Dairyland’s (WDOEC) building, this new space provides a safe, easily accessible daytime refuge for neighbors in need. Each day, 60–80 men and women find relief from extreme weather. Individuals now have access to showers, laundry, medical care, employment and housing services. The location also gives guests a dependable address they can use for applications and to receive mail.

Each guest has access to services to help them rebuild their lives, in partnership with more than 20 agencies offering specialized support to address the root causes of homelessness. Those seeking addiction recovery may move forward through a seamless pathway into our long-term recovery programs.

At the Community Haven House, there is unity, hope and compassion. This comes together through the collective efforts of staff, partners and supporters who believe in creating pathways to stability and healing.

For years, Tim lived a life few could imagine surviving. What began as drug use slowly grew into addiction, leading to one loss after another. His job was gone. His family and home were gone. Eventually, so was his hope. For nearly five years, Tim lived outside, moving from a van to a tent and finally a makeshift shack hidden in the woods. “I gave up on all life and all hope,” he admits.

A traffic stop changed everything. Unaware of an outstanding warrant, Tim was taken to jail. What felt like another loss became an unexpected turning point. While incarcerated, Tim encountered jail ministry and began hearing a message that followed him everywhere. “It was like God saying, ‘You need to step up. Let go, and let God.’” Upon release, Tim was connected to Hope Gospel Mission. “It’s been a Godsend ever since,” he says. “A lot of good things happened to me since I’ve been here.”

For the first month, Tim learned to adapt to his new surroundings. After years of surviving alone, structure and accountability felt foreign. But slowly, his heart began to change. “You learn to care again. Care about yourself. Care about people.” Fellowship with other men and guidance toward faith helped rebuild what addiction stripped away. “Being around a group of guys helped me understand that everybody has faults, and we help each other through them.”

Today, Tim regained his driver’s license, returned to steady work and is actively searching for housing. He stays connected to church and spends his free time volunteering and encouraging others who are struggling. His children, once afraid they had lost their father forever, are now proud of the man he is becoming. “That’s one thing I’m proud of now,” he said. “They can see the real me again.”

Looking ahead, Tim’s goals are simple and strong. “Staying clean, staying with God, working every day and being a good person,” he says. And to those who made his journey possible, he offers this message of gratitude: “Your time, your prayers and your generosity truly make a difference. I’m here today because you care. Thank you for helping change lives like mine.”

"I love volunteering at Hope Gospel Mission as I feel I am a part of of making a difference in our community!"  -Sue, Volunteer

Spring brings a season of renewal, fresh beginnings and opportunities to step forward with dignity. At Hope Gospel Mission, that spirit of renewal is alive every day.

Our programs and resources help individuals rebuild their lives, offering stability, support and new opportunities. Guided by kindness, respect and genuine concern, we walk alongside each person as they take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more independent future, with every interaction.

We are seeking compassionate volunteers to support our mission in several ways — within programs, at our day resource center and at our thrift stores — assisting with simple but essential tasks that make a real difference in the daily experience of those we serve. These acts of service often become an important part of someone’s journey toward stability, skill-building and renewed purpose.

If you've been looking for a meaningful way to help, this is your moment.  Please visit www.hopegospelmission.org/get-involved/volunteer to learn how you can provide hope in practical, lasting ways.

Gifts Given in Memory

(Persons being honored are listed first)