From Cold Nights to New Beginnings

They tried to start over in Sierra Vista, but it didn’t work out. They returned to Tucson, hoping to find more resources.

Hope arrived on a Monday morning at Reid Park, when Gospel Rescue Mission’s mobile kitchen pulled in. Staff walked through the park, inviting everyone to come over for coffee and a hot meal.

While they were eating, they heard about Operation Rescue. “They told us we could come back, shower, eat, stay for the day—and if we stayed, we’d have a chance to get a bed and get in,” Kasandra didn’t hesitate. “I thought, yes let’s take advantage of that. That sounds amazing.”

What stood out to Brandon was the scale of care. “GRM is bigger than I expected, there are so many resources.” Kasandra agreed, “It’s set up like a hotel, and the food was really good. I liked all of it.”

“When you’re out on the streets, you feel lost,” Brandon said. “Being here, you’re part of a community. Everyone’s in a similar situation, and people genuinely want to help.” They’ve built friendships, found support in staff, and even reconnected with old friends.

They’ve also begun rebuilding their future. Brandon is working in the warehouse while Kasandra helps in the kitchen and is exploring opportunities in office work.

Through it all, their faith has guided them. Kasandra sees God’s hand in every step, from the cold nights at Reid Park, to the mobile kitchen, to the beds they now sleep in. “I’m very thankful,” she said, “and I’m trying to follow where He’s leading us.”

They are embracing every opportunity GRM offers: community, classes, advocacy, and job training, discovering just how strong and resilient they truly are.

As Brandon put it, “We’re grateful for GRM and everything they do. It’s amazing that Tucson has a place like this for people who are struggling, people who feel lost.”

“Come take a look for yourself. See how it works. Just give it a chance.”