Up to Date Archive
Enjoy the extended list of Citygate Network stories
Coming Soon: Maya by Artists for Change
A story of struggle, a pathway to resilience. This film opens eyes to the silent battles against abuse and trafficking. Stand with us; uplift the vulnerable. See the film. Spark a conversation.
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Meeting Homelessness with Hope: One Community’s Response
Discover 'Meeting Homelessness with Hope': A heartening story from Colorado Springs, where compassion meets action. Former and current leaders of the Springs Rescue Mission share their journey in partnering with the city to reduce homelessness. This book is more than a story; it's a blueprint for change, emphasizing that understanding and empathy can drive effective solutions.
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Advocacy Continues for Charitable Deduction Legislation
The political landscape is ever-changing, but the push for the Universal Charitable Deduction Act remains strong. Citygate Network's commitment, evidenced by their meeting with Senator Lankford’s staff, is key to keeping UCD on the legislative agenda.
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Furniture Row Continues Campaign To Support Local Citygate Network Members
Sleep better and do good! For the 21st year, Denver Mattress Company is partnering with Citygate Network for a special November campaign. For every mattress sold, $15 goes directly to members in need, with a matching contribution of up to $150,000!
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Parking Lots Support Rising Number of People Whose Cars Serve as Homes
Did you know that parking lots are becoming safe havens for working Americans who can't afford rent? Launched in 2004, this innovative idea has churches and businesses turning empty lots into unique communities. Nearly 60% of LA's homeless have jobs and live in their cars. Let's explore this unorthodox solution to a growing crisis.
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The 2023 Mattress Campaign is On!
Denver Mattress Company (DMC) has once again partnered with Citygate Network for its November 2023 mattress campaign! Member ministries can receive a portion of the donation garnered from the sale of every mattress in the month of November.
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Security Tools Specifically Designed for Faith Communities
Your faith community is a sanctuary, a place of love and peace. But in today's world, even sacred spaces need protection. The White House has released a toolkit for faith-based communities to help prevent acts of hate and discrimination. Equip yourself with practical knowledge to secure your sanctuary.
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Program Pivot in Hawaii Results in Greater Reach
When the community speaks, River of Life listens. They've revamped their daily meal program to better align with community needs. By working through various local partners, they’ve not only increased their reach but have also seen unprecedented success in helping people transition off the streets.
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Fees to Resume on Facebook and Instagram Donations
With Meta no longer covering processing fees, nonprofits may see a dip in online donations. Now's the time to review your fundraising strategies. Consider diversifying your online platforms or launching matching grant campaigns to offset costs.
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Stay Current with Federal and State Laws that Affect Your Workplace
Heads up, ministries! Q4 2023 is here, and it's vital to revisit compliance and best practices to ensure the exercise of your religious freedoms. Keep abreast of recent federal and state laws to protect your calling.
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Cities Resort to Desperate Measures to Stem the Flow of Migrants
Bowery Mission CEO James Winans likens NYC's Roosevelt Hotel migrant center to a "present-day Ellis Island." Faith communities are called upon more than ever to show love and compassion amidst this crisis.
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October 10 is World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day 2023 beckons us with a resonating theme: 'Mental health is a universal human right.' The heartstrings of America play a poignant note, revealing that 20-25% of its homeless are ensnared in the maze of severe mental challenges.
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Enlightening Statistics About the Rise and Fall of Poverty Rates
New op-ed by Pastor David Beckmann sheds light on the rollercoaster poverty rates in the U.S. during and post-pandemic. Through bipartisan action, child poverty was halved! What's the catch? The gains were lost after pandemic aid ceased.
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Food Forests Spreading Through City
Turn barren lands into bountiful gardens! Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) crafts 19 food forests to combat food scarcity. Imagine a community garden that not only feeds but also educates!
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Philly City Council Gets Serious About Safe Injection Sites
Philadelphia City Council says let the community decide! Legislation passed allows for safe injection sites but only after heavy scrutiny and community input. A balanced approach to a complex issue?
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Statistics Reveal Alarming Trends About Youth and Self-Harm
Canada's federal budget designates $45M for national mental health service standards. Will this be enough to counteract the rising rates of self-harm among the youth?
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The “Hat Trick” of Successful Leadership
Clear direction and goals are vital for any successful team. The Great Commission gives a perfect example of clarity, setting the course for followers for centuries. How clearly have you communicated your vision?
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The Transformative Journey
On Oct 17, we honor the lives burdened by poverty. The UN emphasizes that those who are poor are the experts of their own situations. Let's not just speak about them but with them, to find lasting solutions.
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Census Bureau Releases New Poverty Data
The latest data from the 2022 Current Population Survey is in, and it's grim. The expiration of pandemic relief measures and changes in tax policies have led to a startling 59% increase in the U.S. poverty rate. It's a sobering wake-up call that asks us to reconsider the tools we use to combat poverty.
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California Governor to Decide Legality of Psychedelics
California may just become a forerunner in decriminalizing psychedelics like psilocybin if Senate Bill 58 gets Governor Newsom's approval. The bill does place restrictions on school property and underage possession. The divisive issue has been met with opposition, citing concerns about its impact on existing social problems.
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Airport Serving as Shelter for Influx of Migrants
In the face of a rising number of migrants, Chicago has made the unprecedented move of using O'Hare Airport as temporary housing. This has sparked debate about public safety, resources, and the ethics of using public spaces in this manner. Meanwhile, the Biden administration identifies more airports for potential use, with Atlantic City strongly opposing the proposal. The question remains: What is the best course of action?
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Participate in a Free Mental Health Summit
Ignorance is NOT bliss when it comes to mental health. The Church Mental Health Summit aims to enlighten us all. On October 10th, join the conversation on Church Health, Community Health, Leadership Health, and Missions & Culture. Presented by experts from Spiritual First Aid, Hope Made Strong, and Biola’s Rosemead School of Psychology, this FREE summit offers practical tools, biblically-based resources, and hope.
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FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray
Emergencies wait for no one. That’s why the FDA has moved Narcan’s 4mg nasal spray from prescription-only to over-the-counter status. It’s a critical step to get this opioid-overdose reversing drug into more hands. In Canada, the TTC is already on the move, with naloxone sprays available in transit stations and trained staff on deck. Don’t underestimate the power of quick access to lifesaving solutions.
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Aging Out - An Instigate Article
Did you know that approximately 20,000 young adults age out of the U.S. foster care system each year? Let's dive into the unspoken crisis of 'aging out,' which leaves many young adults vulnerable to homelessness.
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Border Towns Still Inundated with Immigrants
El Paso is busier than ever with weekly legal border crossings ranging between 2k-3k migrants. Despite this, it's not even the busiest port of entry. Organizations on the ground are struggling to cope, with facilities reaching their limits. Do you know where these migrants are headed next? Primarily large cities such as NYC and LA
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Migrants Pivotal to Solving the Canadian Housing Crisis
Are you aware that Canada is facing a significant housing crisis? The surprising solution might lie in immigration. Minister Marc Miller suggests that the influx of skilled immigrants could be a crucial part of the equation. By 2025, Canada could see 500,000 new faces, many of whom will fill the labor gaps in the construction industry. Without this aid, Canada may find itself 3.5 million homes short by 2030.
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Adaptive Leadership in Recovery Services
If you are in a season where pivots and setbacks abound, be encouraged. YOU ARE GROWING! No lasting or effective change occurs without setbacks. Allow Proverbs 16:3 to guide us today, "Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed."
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Fall Edition of the A-to-Z Website Tour
Unlock the full potential of Citygate Network with Aly Zadurowicz on the A-to-Z Website Tour. Nourish your understanding, gain practical insights, and serve better.
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Debt Ensnaring More Americans
The escalating burden of debt is a growing concern for countless Americans. With soaring interest rates and inflation, U.S. credit card debt has surged past $1 trillion—an alarming milestone confirmed by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
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Healing and Hope Through Hip-Hop
Mental health meets hip-hop in Peel Dem Layers Back's revolutionary program, "Cope Dealer." Recognizing music's healing power, founder Archie Green channeled his experiences into a 10-week safe space for young people in Black and Brown communities. Participants like The Cope Kingz find expression and community, aided by licensed social workers. With over 40% of young blacks aged 18-25 seeking mental health treatment, initiatives like these build bridges to healing.
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Maintaining Internal Controls in a Digital Environment
In the age of digitization, receiving bank statements, bills, invoices, donor contributions, and other correspondence via physical mail has become largely obsolete. How can your organization maintain internal controls in this increasingly electronic environment?
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Project Converts Containers To Housing
Join the revolution of sustainable housing! Phoenix's X-Wing project is transforming shipping containers into air-conditioned homes for up to 20 people. Awarded $2.6 million, Steel + Spark designed an innovative X-shaped structure. Help them expand to 900 more beds by 2024!
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Rallying Around Maui Rescue Mission
With the devastation that has come to the island of Maui, Hawaii, many of our Citygate Network members have inquired about the best way to help.
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Navigating the Federal Grant Process Could Get Simpler
Tired of complicated federal grant applications? U.S. Senator Gary Peters has introduced the Streamlining Federal Grants Act to help! This bipartisan legislation aims to modernize the process, giving all communities equal opportunity for funding. It's progress we can believe in.
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Sharing Produce in a Food Desert
A local food garden east of Waco and has produced about 10,000 pounds of produce for a half-dozen food pantries over the last 15 months.
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Avoiding Government Bureaucracy to Build Affordable Housing
Think private sector for affordable housing solutions. Without the red tape of government programs, private developers can turn sizable investments into a sustainable housing-building cycle. It's time for innovative approaches to tackle this pressing issue. #AffordableHousing #PrivateSectorSolutions
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Child Tax Credit Legislation Introduced to Cover Unborn Children
"Providing For Life Act" is reshaping how the government views family care. The proposed expansion of the child tax credit to cover unborn children and additional resources for expectant parents could revolutionize support for growing families. Will this be the future of family welfare?
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Celebrating the Tenure of John Ashmen
John, Citygate Network's president and CEO for 16 years, brought remarkable transformation throughout many challenges. Under his leadership, membership grew and member events quadrupled. These testimonials and videos showcase his dedication to guiding many from suffering to flourishing through gospel-powered life transformation as well as the organizations that serve them every day.
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A Restaurant Staffed by Recovering Addicts
Emerging from the shadows of addiction, Executive Chef Aaron Cozadd has breathed life into Vigilante Kitchen + Bar, a restaurant with a mission beyond food. After facing his struggles with addiction, Cozadd realized the potential for a supportive, recovery-focused workplace within an industry marred by the highest rate of drug use.
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Creating Healthy Team Culture
The concept of a healthy team culture often appears perplexing. It's a conundrum many leaders face: the existence of vibrant team cultures that don't seem to contribute to an overall healthy organizational culture.
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Navigating from a Prison Cell to the C-Suite
Nike executive Larry Miller recently revealed that he spent many years in prison on a murder conviction as a young man.
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Native Americans Impacted by Sober Living Home Closures
Due to the recent crackdown on Medicaid fraud in Arizona, more than 100 unlicensed sober living homes have had their services suspended.
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All God’s Creatures
No matter what you’re going through or what kind of day you are having, the dogs are always there to love on you.
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Made in His Image
I truly believe that God introduces himself to us as the Creator first, on purpose …
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Exploring the Potential of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression and Addiction Treatment
Join us as we delve into this breakthrough that harnesses the power of magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Discover how TMS may offer hope and relief to those in need.
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Why is Homelessness on the Rise?
Citygate Network President Emeritus John Ashmen explains the primary reasons we've seen an increase in people experiencing homelessness as well as what Citygate Network member ministries do every day to move people from human suffering to human flourishing.
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Safe Neighborhood Legislation Backfiring
In 2014, California voters approved Proposition 47, also known as the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act, with the goal of reducing the state's prison population and investing the resulting savings into mental health and substance use disorder treatments.
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The Citygate Network Business Directory
This directory is an excellent resource for anyone involved in mission or ministry. With its advanced search filters and detailed business profiles, you'll find everything you need to support your mission and achieve your goals.
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Opioid Overdose Treatment Gets FDA Approval
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an over-the-counter version of naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal drug previously available only as a prescription drug in the U.S.
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Beyond Posting and Praying
Instigate March/April 2023
When you say your prayers at night, do you include a prayer to find workers?
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Tackling Domestic Violence
The issue of domestic violence is not exclusive to those who have homes and stable living situations. Homelessness and domestic violence often intersect, and individuals experiencing homelessness are at an increased risk of violence and abuse.
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Push Continues for Charitable Deduction Legislation
Homeless families often rely on our member missions and kindred ministries for critical services such as shelter, food, and healthcare. The Universal Charitable Deduction encourages individuals and corporations to give to organizations by providing a tax incentive for their donations.
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Member Ministry Moves to Protect Hiring Rights
Yakima Union Gospel Mission has filed a complaint in federal district court to protect its First Amendment right to exclusively hire employees who share its statement of faith and religious beliefs. The lawsuit has national implications, as every religious organization is threatened with liability for not hiring people who share their religious beliefs.
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HHS Arm Introduces a New Toolkit
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships has introduced a toolkit to help faith and community leaders facilitate youth connectedness and address mental health challenges. Mental health challenges are a leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes for young people, and connectedness through community has been shown to be an effective way to prevent and address these challenges.
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Accommodations That Think Outside the Box
Revive 66 Campground offers a safe and comfortable night’s stay in one of 52 lockable vintage-style campers.
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Distributing Leftovers After the Big Game
Did you know that every #SuperBowlSunday, thousands of pounds of leftover food go to waste? This year, the Food Recovery Network and Waste Not combined their efforts to rescue and redistribute surplus food from the Super Bowl.
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The Excitement is Building for the Annual Conference!
The Annual Conference and Exposition is the ultimate destination for anyone who works in the life transformation ministry. We will gather in Orlando Florida from May 31 – June 3, and this year, we are proud to announce that we are at record-high registration numbers.
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New Camping Law Takes Effect
As of January 1, 2023, camping on state-owned land in Missouri has become a Class C misdemeanor. Cities that don't enforce the ban or current local camping ordinances may face legal action from the state attorney general.
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Another Big Idea to Corral Homelessness
Sunbreak Ranch outside San Diego, California, is a grassroots program seeking to address the homelessness crisis locally, with an eye on expanding up the coast and across the country.
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COVID-19 Emergency SNAP Benefits to Expire
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will no longer offer an additional 15 percent to eligible recipients when emergency allotments expire at the end of February.
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Drug Cocktails Becoming Increasingly Toxic
The street drug supply in Canada includes more and more highly potent mixes with opioids like fentanyl, creating an unpredictable and often unidentifiable mixture of substances that leave frontline medical personnel scrambling at how to treat overdoses.
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Citygate Network Member in National Spotlight
Multiple networks and national publications have carried interviews with Blake Barrow, CEO of Rescue Mission of El Paso (Texas) the past few days.
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Collaboration Demonstrated
The San Diego Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) hosted its first annual Conference on Homelessness in early December. Eighteen members of the San Diego Rescue Mission (San Diego, California) programs team attended the event and Paul Armstrong, VP of programs, shared his feedback.
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2022 Charitable Donations Show Decline
Going into the holiday season, many Canadian charities report an increased demand for their services, but higher costs and shrinking donations in 2022 have created a perfect storm.
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Avoiding Mission Drift
Instigate January/February 2023
Whether your organization has been around for 10 years or 110, the reality is the same: Mission drift is only a matter of time without ongoing effort and accountability.
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Committing Mentally Ill Residents Against Their Will
The mayor of New York City announced a new proposal for the city to address mentally ill residents by hospitalizing them, involuntarily, even when they do not pose an immediate safety risk to others.
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Building Skills and Homes
A group of students will gain valuable work experience building a set of eight tiny homes as part of the school’s Building Construction Internship Program. This program provides hands-on work for 11th and 12th grade students and provides experience working in the trades.
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Sometimes They Would Rather Go to Jail
For some people experiencing homelessness, jail offers a tempting choice during the cold, dark winter months.
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Rethinking Education for Inmates
Education in prison is doing more than changing the lives of those who have been locked up as punishment for crimes – it is also changing the lives of those doing the teaching
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Making Family Connections
Instigate November/December 2022
Neither of us ever imagined our son would drop out college, become homeless, and disappear. Never.
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Helpful Insights on Inflation’s Effect on Nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations provided employees and executives with average salary increases between three and 3.3 percent in 2022.
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Clarification on ECFA's Compliance Review With Virtual Check-in
In 2019, ECFA introduced a video check-in to ensure that accredited members clearly understand their standards. Learn how to maximize this option.
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Poverty, Not Pain, Driving Many to Contemplate Death
In 2016, Canada passed Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) legislation. Originally, it required that death be “reasonably foreseeable,” but based on legal challenges, the rules were changed in 2021. A large number of Canadians with disabilities have begun considering applying for MAiD. Almost one-quarter of disabled people live in poverty, according to a report from Statistics Canada. How can you or your organization reach and minister to disabled persons below the poverty level?
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Important D.C. Fly-in Being Held
The Charitable Giving Coalition, with the help of Faith & Giving, is organizing meetings on Capitol Hill next month to get lawmakers to understand the importance of renewing the universal charitable deduction.
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Making Progress and Losing Ground
What evidence have you seen at your organization that child poverty has decreased, and/or that the cost of living has increased over the last year?
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What Difference Does Money Make?
Denver city council approved a $2 million contract with the Denver Basic Income Project to provide monthly cash assistance to 140 women and families experiencing homelessness.
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Administration Releases National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health
More than 50 years since the first White House Conference on Food, Nutrition, and Health, the U.S. has yet to end hunger and is facing an urgent, nutrition-related health crisis—the rising prevalence of diet-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and certain cancers.
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Join the Fight Against Suicide
Mental health organizations across the country recognize National Suicide Prevention Week and Suicide Prevention Awareness Month during the month of September each year. Here are some ways you can be involved.
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Standing for Sobriety; National Sober Day
National Sober Day is a day for reflection and commitment. For many people, it is a day to remember their journey to get sober. For others, it is a day to begin their journey. But, regardless of where someone is on their sobriety journey, Sober Day is a time to come together and celebrate the strength it takes to be sober.
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Farmers’ Consumer Awareness Day vs. Food Insecurity
Initiated out of the desire to make customers see farmers as they truly are: hard workers doing a difficult job, this annual event draws attention to the individuals that put food on people's tables. But what about food waste in America?
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Child Nutrition Programs in Jeapordy
Expanded federal funding passed during the pandemic did not get included in the latest spending bill, and that change could impact about 10 million children.
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National Recovery Month 2022
In spite of the challenges we may face in life, there is always hope for recovery. This month, let's come together to celebrate those who have overcome substance use disorders and to show our support for those still struggling.
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Recovery Strategies
Instigate September/October 2022
When someone is struggling, sometimes all he or she needs is just a hand on the shoulder from one other person who cares. Other times, a person might need a full regiment of services. Somewhere along this spectrum of support is virtually everyone who walks into a life-transformation ministry.
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LA Voters Will Decide Whether Hotels Must House the Homeless
The Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to add a controversial measure to the 2024 ballot, asking voters to decide if the city should require hotels to rent unsold rooms to people experiencing homelessness.
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You Don’t Want to Miss Out on This Refund!
The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) might be the most underclaimed form of federal financial benefit ever available to employers and is reportedly the first tax credit to nonprofit organizations in U.S. history. Many eligible churches, schools, ministries, and other nonprofit organizations are missing out on the opportunity to receive this significant federal aid.
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To Give Drugs or Not to Give Drugs, That is the Question
Funded by the public health system, fentanyl dispensaries in Vancouver, BC have government support because, theoretically, they save lives and tax dollars. Critics point out that evidence for the effectiveness of these experiments has not borne that out.
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Canadian Medical Field Feeling the Heat
Numerous hospital emergency rooms across Canada have had to temporarily close their doors this summer, mainly due to a shortage of health workers. An emergency room physician in Toronto, “the health system has already collapsed.” Shortages in emergency room staffing could increase the number of guests seeking services at your organization.
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Soaring Housing Market Squeezing Out Buyers
Home prices in the U.S. hit an all-time high earlier this summer, while more and more buyers can no longer afford to purchase a house. Although the inventory of houses has started to increase, many communities still have a shortage of homes on the market.
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Workers Want Retirement Help
With retirement confidence declining, employees have turned to their employers for help. Both escalating inflation and market volatility have taken a toll on contribution levels. What's a mission to do?
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COVID-19 Is Still with Us
The newest guidelines from the CDC for COVID-19 and congregant shelters.
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Boosting Single Parent Educational Outcomes
A national foundation working to improve higher ed outcomes among the underserved provided a start-up fund to launch pilot programs tailored to single mothers. How did they do?
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Rolling Out a New Crisis Hotline
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has transitioned to a three-digit number (988) for both calls and texts. Health officials and advocates hope the revamped system will improve the handling of the mental health crisis response across the country.
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Tracking the Trends: Too Many Fatherless Boys
The percentage of boys who do not live with their biological father has risen to 32 percent since 1960. That means about 12 million boys are growing up without their biological dad at home.
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Technology Training for Former Prisoners
Slack’s philanthropic arm trains formerly incarcerated people to establish tech careers. So far have all the apprentices received full-time job offers at tech companies, including Dropbox, Square, and Zoom.
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Help for Clients Experiencing PTSD
An online training will provide an understanding of how trauma and PTSD affect the brain; a description of PTSD symptoms and how they impact people in their day-to-day lives; and much more.
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Hope in the Gate Builds on Life Recovery Program
Citygate Network’s most recent Hope in the Gate event was, again, much appreciated by program guests, mission staff, and other special guests.
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Alarming Reports from Decriminalization of Drug Possession
The plan to connect drug abusers with services and treatment hasn’t shown much success.
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Another SCOTUS Decision Protects Freedom of Religion
SCOTUS reversed the decision made by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, holding that a high school football coach’s freedom of speech and religion is protected under the First Amendment
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Adapting to a New Generation of Workers
Millennials range from age 26 to 41 and have steered the largest portion of the work force since 2017. But this new generation of workers have a different approach to work, and leaders may need to rethink biases when hiring the next workforce.
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Time To Grow
When leaders are humble, empowering, servant-oriented, and skilled, they give life to their teams and organizations. When leaders are insecure, micromanaging, demeaning, and demanding, they kill their teams and organizations.
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Annual Conference Registers Record Attendance
We ended up with 1,110 registered for the event and received great feedback from so many participants who felt encouraged, inspired, informed, and connected after their time in San Antonio!
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Snapshot Survey Reports are Ready
Member ministries that participated in Citygate Network’s 2022 Snapshot Survey can now retrieve a report comparing your stats to those provided by other participating members
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Taking Mental Health Seriously
Singer and actress Selena Gomez visited the White House to participate in a conversation on mental health with the president and first lady, the U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, and 30 young leaders from across the U.S.
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Americans Struggling to Access Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment
It's been reported a “staggering gap between the number of Americans who need care for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions and those who can actually get it” currently exists.
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Drug Possession No Longer Criminal in B.C.
British Columbia is the first Canadian province to grant an exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, removing criminal penalties for possession of some hard drugs.
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Hope in the Gate: The Music
What do rescue mission ministry, Christian camping, and gospel music have in common? Find out in our next “Hope in the Gate” video.
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Homelessness in L.A. Is Still a Top Story
A Los Angeles television station recently aired a telling the history of the city’s homelessness problem, the current conditions, and examining the effectiveness of various solutions.
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Disaster Assistance Bill Recognizes Broader Scope
A bipartisan group of four representatives introduced H.R. 5703, and two cross-party senators introduced U.S. S. 3677.
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HUD Symposium a ‘Go’ in San Antonio
Join other missions and ministries in the Rawhide District for this important and timely discussion with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at the 2022 Annual Conference and Exposition.
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Will Billionaire Tax Stimulate Giving?
Americans with wealth totaling over $100 million would be subject to at least a 20 percent tax rate if the administration’s “billionaire tax” proposal goes through. If it passes, it could have a positive effect on charitable giving.
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Christian Camps Looking for Summer Help Too
Working at a Christian summer camp can be a life-changing experience, but nonprofits have found it particularly difficult to compete.
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Youth Continue Battle with Mental Health Issues
The CDC released new data to assess the well-being of U.S. youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Gearing Up at the Border
What steps have you taken to communicate with and serve higher numbers of Spanish-speaking migrants coming across the southern border?
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Pilot Programs Making Cash Payments
At least three Massachusetts nonprofits have recently launched pilot programs to test the theory that the combination of confidence and cash from these programs can help people move toward economic stability.
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A Fresh Take on Jesus for Skeptics
A significant new media campaign designed to create cultural change in the way people think about Jesus and His relevance in our lives is making a difference in people's lives.
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April is Alcohol Awareness Month
With millions of Americans suffering with and succumbing to alcohol addiction, here are a few ways you can bring attention to this debilitating illness.
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Hope in the Gate: Testimonies of Change
Take a moment to enjoy the testimony of Citygate Network member CEOs as they share how the "Hope in the Gate" experience has impacted them and the clients in their programs.
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Nonprofit Turns Two Wrongs into a Right
Nonprofit The Farmlink Project matches farmers with surplus produce with those in need
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Members Invited to Regroup on COVID-19 Matters
With the omicron variant of COVID-19 spiking, Citygate Network is encouraging our members to review CDC guidance and attend a member's only webinar to ask questions about current and future pandemic concerns.
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DC Forum Registration Open
Our highly anticipated DC Forum is now open for registration!
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Swords into Plowshares
A Colorado Springs nonprofit has a unique program that converts guns into garden tools.
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Support Faith-Based Childcare Services
The Institutional Religious Freedom Alliance (IRFA) is circulating a letter for Congress, stating that while the expanded investment in childcare and early education in the Build Back Better Act is encouraging, unnecessarily marginalizes faith-based providers of these important services.
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Courts Hold Pharmacies Accountable
The 12-member jury sent a warning message that these cases won’t necessarily play out well in court
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Major Case Still “Up in the Air”
In Washington State, there’s a law that requires houses of worship and other religious nonprofits to employ even those who contradict the beliefs the nonprofits were created to foster.
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Expanding the Universal Charitable Deduction (UCD)
In a letter to Congress, Citygate Network along with other non-profit organizations are urging that they be enabled to continue to fulfill their missions through making permanent the UCD.
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A Thanksgiving Table for Everyone
Many missions and ministries are helping move people from destitute circumstances and desperate situations this year, gathering around tables all across North America.
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Don’t Miss Out on Hiring Veterans
Men and women who served in uniform don’t always get the callbacks and interviews because the applicant tracking systems used in most HR departments don’t pick up on terminology used in military resumes.
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New Food Challenges
Food banks are experiencing empty shelves for many reasons, and many are facing a new crisis in putting food on the table.
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Veterans Day; The Untold Story of Returning
Why are 50,000 veterans homeless each night—and how can rescue missions and ministries help?
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Shifting The Dynamic Of Ministry
Instigate November/December 2021
While the motive for loving our neighbors might be a genuine, God-given desire to be like Christ, if we’re not careful, hidden sins of our hearts can turn what we intend for good into an opportunity for harm.
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National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
American youth are sometimes overlooked in the discussions of homelessness. While not just losing their community, friends, or shelter, many deal with significant levels of trauma.
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Leadership Development in Rescue Missions and Ministries: A Podcast
John Ashmen, CEO of Citygate Network, representing 300 rescue missions across North America, recently outlines some of the critical leadership issues that missions and ministries face as their organizations focus on life transformation.
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More Services for People Who Are Hungry
The IRS reported during the first 10 months of 2020, the number of nonprofits created per month rose.
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Suicide Prevention Nonprofit Aims Younger
Doctoral candidate changes focus from middle and high school students to elementary school students in response to suicide-prevention curriculum.
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Federal Resource Links for Members
Josh Dickson has provided these links and resources for our members to take advantage of.
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Are We Changing How We “Do Church?”
Infinity Concepts and Grey Matter Research surveyed over 1,000 churchgoing Christians and released a study revealing some interesting observations about the differences between attending church in person and watching it online.
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Overdose Trends Continue to Escalate
In 2020, more fatal drug overdoses occurred than ever before in history, claiming the lives of tens of thousands of individuals.
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COVID-19 Member Call
We've scheduled a member-wide call with the CDC to address questions regarding vaccinations and boosters for Thursday, October 14, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Mountain Time.
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Hidden Trace Retreat No. 1
Rescue mission ministry, Christian camping, and gospel music—this compelling and rare combination is at work in our first "Hope in the Gate" video.
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Temporary Eviction Ban Struck Down by Supreme Court
The CDC eviction ban was struck down, but there is still assistance available.
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The Best-Laid Plans
Instigate September/October 2021
It happens more frequently than organizations may realize. After decades of stable ministry leadership, established funding, and exponential transformation of individuals for the Kingdom, a new executive takes the helm.
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Citygate Network Member Dealing with Hurricane Ida Aftermath
David Bottner, the CEO at New Orleans Mission, let us know that Hurricane Ida did a number on the city.
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It's #NationalSecondhandWardrobeDay!
Freshen up your closet and decrease excess clothing by celebrating National Secondhand Wardrobe Day on August 25!
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SBA Simplifies PPP Process
The US Small Business Administration has created a portal to streamline forgiveness processing for PPP Borrowers.
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CDC Clarifies Guidance and Makes Request of Citygate Network
Dr. Emily Mosites, epidemiologist overseeing the homeless population at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), contacted us to comment on the CDC’s recent mask guidelines for the general public.
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The Rental Assistance Finder from CFPB
Josh Dickson, deputy director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, asked Citygate Network to spread the word about a new resource from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
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Urgent Action Needed August 2, 2021 to Protect Donor-Advised Funds
A new bill coming to the floor of the U.S. Senate could change how DAFs are handled in the future. The Accelerating Charitable Efforts (ACE) Act (S. 1981) would impose new federal restrictions and taxes on contributions to DAFs.
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The Bronze Scar
John Ashmen was asked to review The Bronze Scar before its release. John shares how this book will benefit Citygate Network members, many of whom regularly minister to people who struggle every day with homelessness and mental issues.
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CTC Eligibility Assistant Now Available in Spanish
Help your Spanish-speaking clients gain the government aid they need with this new tool from the Internal Revenue Service.
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Racial Profiling Exposed in Home Valuations
An unfair home valuation was identified when a female black homeowner received a low valuation when she was present but received a double valuation when a white male friend stood in as the homeowner.
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Tiny Homes, Big Hope
Instigate July/August 2021
Inside each tiny home, residents sleep on a comfortable bed and enjoy temperature controls, the ability to charge their phones, onsite meals, hygiene care, and social services.
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Updated Coronavirus Recommendations for Unsheltered People
Included in this article are updates from the CDC relating to helping unsheltered people during COVID-19 pandemic.
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Helping Our Homeless Neighbors During Extreme Heat
Extreme heat kills more Americans than any other weather event, but not everyone’s risk is the same. The U.S. and Canada have been dealing with extreme heat warnings in recent days and it doesn't seem to be letting up soon.
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The End of the Eviction Moratorium Is Right Around the Corner
It is difficult to quantify precisely how many people might face eviction once the ruling lifts. Still, in a recent survey, more than 53,000 households reported they were not up to date on rent or mortgage payments.
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Homeless Students Among Most Impacted During Pandemic
The House Education & Labor Committee recently heard testimony from several experts confirming that homeless students’ academic and social challenges during the pandemic only escalated by isolation resulting from school closures.
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More Than a Quarter of Americans Worry About Being on the Street
A phone poll reveals the homelessness worries of those interviewed.
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Charitable Contribution Legislation Must Continue
U.S. charitable giving increased 10.6 percent in 2020 compared to 2019. The ECFA is suggesting that one cause for the particularly strong year-end donations might be the Universal Charitable Deduction (UCD).
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Signs of the Times
Instigate Cover Article May-Jun 2021
If we are genuinely interested in serving the disadvantaged and vulnerable, we must recognize changing times, changing landscapes, and changing ecosystems. When we do this, we can identify wise ways of responding. This will allow us to take the best course and, as a result, our ministries will thrive.
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John Ashmen Interviewed for Brewer Direct Webinar
John brought the thought leadership Citygate Network is known for in this webinar interview posted by Brewer Direct, Inc.
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Overdoses on the Rise; Stimulus Checks May Be the Culprit
As substance abuse surges in the U.S., several officials see a trend between overdose cases and stimulus payments
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Citygate Network Helping with Immigrant Children
Citygate Network mission and ministry members are being invited to help unaccompanied minors at our southern borders.
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Good Friday Ideas to Help the Homeless
Not sure what to do when you want to help? Assemble and give away simple Care Kits.
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New Guidelines Released for Vaccinated Populations
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced their new standards for those fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and the implications for congregate settings.
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More Money for Those Working Through Your Programs
Review these important links to help people going through your programs toward securing better housing, dependable transportation, quality childcare, and higher education.
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New Faith Connections at the White House
A recent executive order re-establishes the Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.
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Recognizing Our Leading Ladies
Instigate Cover Article Mar-Apr 2021
An interview discussing the stories of our “leading ladies” and the advantages of having women CEOs leading ministries of compassion.
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Arctic Cold Endangering Homeless in North America
The front currently affecting much of the United States and Canada has toppled numerous longstanding cold records, including some that date back more than 100 years.
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Restoring Dignified Dining Experiences to Guests During the Pandemic
What happens when your new dining area is suddenly not to be used due to the Coronavirus pandemic restrictions?
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Congress Predominantly Identifies as Christian
The religious composition of the 117th Congress looks similar to the previous congress but is quite different from Americans overall.
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New Law Requires Grocery Stores to Donate Expiring Food
A new law will require large supermarkets to donate excess food nearing the sell-by-date to non-profits or religious organizations that provide free food to their communities.
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COVID-19 Vaccination and Sub-Prioritization among Recommended Populations
The following information was provided by the USICH via an email sent on January 7, 2021.
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Sheltersuits: The Next Wave of Weatherproof Wear for “Rough Sleepers”
A chance meeting with a homeless woman in 2014 inspired a Dutch designer to create a wearable shelter for people experiencing homelessness.
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The “Big Six” Protocols
Important recommendations to maintain safe "Coronavirus-free bubbles" within your mission or ministry from the USICH
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Vaccinations Have Begun
The COVID-19 vaccine is in the process of being released. Learn more about how this will affect your mission.
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Federal Program Acknowledges Citygate Network for Important Role in Saving Lives
Extra Mile Recognitions are awarded to local, state, and federal stakeholders who have made extraordinary efforts to support USICH’s mission and improve Americans’ homelessness outcomes
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Mission Chef Job Training Program Pays it Forward
Ric Watson began working as a dishwasher as a teenager, battling addiction, and living on the street, when someone gave him a chance.
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From Homelessness to the House of Representatives
You never know how someone you minister to might be able to rise up and serve because of your investment in their life.
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2020 Thanksgiving Greeting
After a year of struggle, it's time to give thanks.
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Citygate Network 2020 Election Results
After holding district elections for Bluegrass, Deep South, and Great Lakes, we are pleased to announce new officers.
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Webinar Explores Faith in Mental Illness Recovery
The Partnership Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiatives continues its webinar series on mental health.
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Vancouver Explores Cash Payments to Homeless Adults
The study results were “beautifully surprising” and could defy assumptions that homeless people cannot be trusted to manage money.
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CDC Guidance Regarding Ventilation in Homeless Shelters
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently provided updated guidance for homeless service providers as we continue to combat COVID-19.
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Serving in Unsettling Times
This article is not simply an alarmist outlook, but rather a realistic perspective on ministry in a time of instability. Allow it to set the stage for important theoretical discussions with your staff and board.
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Teaching Children to Stand Up Against Racism
In the wake of the national reckoning on race, "Sesame Street" is teaching children to stand up against racism.
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Numbers of Homeless Elderly Expected to Increase
Experts are projecting that in the next 10 years, the number of elderly people experiencing homelessness could nearly triple, as a wave of late baby boomers ages.
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Directory of COVID-19 Supplemental Resources
Get help navigating the federal programs funded by the COVID-19 supplemental appropriations.
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USICH Releases Plan to Address U.S. Homelessness
In the past five years, unsheltered homelessness has increased by 20.5 percent. In the same timeframe, the number of year-round beds available has risen 42.7 percent. Despite the "housing-first" mindset, people are still homeless. Discover the USICH plan released on October 19, 2020, here.
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Tips to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
The CDC, EPA, and other organizations are ready to help you survive during this current crisis. Below are helpful links to equip you as you care for your homeless neighbors.
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Numbers Count
The goal for data isn’t to reduce transformational work into numbers; the goal is to provide waypoints to inform ministry, influence policy, gain public trust, and attract partners.
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2020 Wildfires Threaten California Members
Currently, a number of Citygate Network member ministries are under the threat of active fires. Please pray as our brothers and sisters, already tired becasue of COVID-19 pandemic related issues.
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USICH Important Update - Seasonal Flu and COVID-19
As we approach the 2020-21 flu season, particular attention needs to be paid to the need for the seasonal flu vaccine, when medically appropriate, and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). It is very important that the local plans be in place to appropriately address the seasonal flu within the community of homelessness and reduce the compounding effects of the seasonal flu and COVID-19.
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COVID-19 Resources to Support Accurate Translation
As the pandemic rages on, language is more important than ever. Non-English-speaking members of the community must be informed about public health guidelines.
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Dawn of a New Kind of Ministry
When COVID-19 became a global pandemic in February, no one could have predicted that one short month later the entire global and national economy and way of human movement would nearly cease overnight.
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New Mental Health Resource Guide From HHS
The Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiatives under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has just released a new resource: Compassion in Action: A Guide for Faith Communities Serving People Experiencing Mental Illness and their Caregivers.
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Hope in the Darkness
Instigate Cover Article May-Jun 2020
Since its very beginning, the Church at large has been a key player in social justice movements to serve and comfort the “least of these.” But I’ve often wondered why we’ve never seen a movement within the Church that’s focused on mental illness.
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A Measure of Success
Instigate Cover Article Jan/Feb 2020
Great leaders don’t embark on the outcomes journey primarily to satisfy reporting requirements or to win the next grant. They know outcomes are the gateway to fulfilling the mission that compelled them into the difficult but rewarding work that God called them to.
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Marbut Tapped to Head U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness
I had breakfast this morning with our friend, Robert Marbut, tapped a week ago by President Trump to head the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, and confirmed late yesterday afternoon. We laughed about me being his first "official" appointment. (His next meeting was at the White House.)
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In The Shadows
Instigate Cover Article Nov/Dec 2019
We cannot end youth homelessness without stopping the flow into homelessness. It is clear that our efforts need to shift from a prolonged crisis response to ensuring that each young person’s experience of homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring.
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Wildfires Threaten California Members
Currently a number of Citygate Network member ministries are under the threat of active fires ablaze in California. Please pray as our brothers and sisters hear forecasts for Santa Ana winds kicking up gusts as high as 80 mph to fuel the fires.
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Illness And Homelessness
Instigate Cover Article Sept/Oct 2019
What’s clear is that being homeless increases the count and advancement of chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, and cancer; and those chronic conditions lead to far more deaths than do infectious diseases.
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Fighting Opioid Addiction by Tackling Loneliness
Social isolation isn't just bad for your mood, it can be bad for your health too. Rachel Wurzman, a neuroscientist, says it also contributes to opioid addiction - fueling drug use, relapses, and overdoses.
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Homelessness Decreases in U.S.
More than 550,000 people in the United States are homeless — a solid .17 percent of the entire population. However, the homeless situation was worse 10 years ago.
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Study Finds Child Opioid Overdoses Doubled in 10 Years
A new study following some 1,500 patients found that the number of children admitted to hospitals in the U.S. because of opioid overdose nearly doubled between 2004 and 2015.
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One in Seven New York City Elementary Students Will Be Homeless
Some 100,000 students who attend New York City public schools were homeless during the 2015-2016 school year. That's a number equal to the total population of Albany, New York.
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Study Shows Donor Giving Preferences Are Shifting
A new study released by Community Brands looks at donor experience and expectations, with an aim to help nonprofits assess what their own donors experience and pinpoint where there's room for improvement.
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