An Update from Saving Grace Ministries

Saving Grace Ministries (SGM) has wrestled with one question since the end of 2023: What can we do to better support the individuals we serve?

SGM currently operates the “Grace House” emergency shelter, serving homeless individuals in both Erie County and the City of Buffalo, where we house 34 men nightly. We also continue to operate our Transitional Living Program, providing supportive housing for 50 individuals who are taking the next step toward independent living.

While SGM has always provided supportive services, this past year has caused us to take time and reflect on our mission. As we did, we sensed within our spirits that there was more work to be done for the clients we serve.

God was faithful in answering our prayers and reflections, as He always is.  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jer. 29:11-13).

SGM began initial conversations through The Erie County Department of Mental Health, The New York State office of Mental Health, and Endeavor Health Services, a local Behavioral Health care provider. These conversations centered around the barriers that SGM clients were facing in receiving care for their behavioral health, with special attention to those in need of mental health support.  

We spent time identifying and listing the barriers that stood between our clients and receiving proper care. Our goal was to create a new model that would initially meet the clients right where they are, build trust, and engage clients in long term treatment. We hope that as these clients modulate their mental health needs, we will then witness greater success in transitioning clients to mainstream independent living. As this transition occurs, we will continue to offer the care and support needed for clients to succeed.

God moved: By early 2024, SGM and Endeavor finalized a partnership and began to plan a pilot program where Endeavor staff would conduct interviews and one-on-one appointments with SGM clients and professionals would perform one on one behavioral health screenings. This will allow the providers to engage clients, build trust, and assess for further mental health or addiction needs. With NYS approval and the support of Erie County, Endeavor began a program rollout in early May of this year. Today, nearly 40 clients are engaged, participating, and actively working towards healing with hope. Endeavor has set up shop within SGM facilities, where we will soon be hosting a client luncheon to address the stigma of behavioral healthcare, mental illness, and addiction.

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:23).

Plans are now unfolding for SGM to remodel our second floor space at the Firehall to accommodate the resource room, a space of comfort and hope. This will allow for Endeavor to engage clients and for SGM staff to guide clients towards employment and independent housing.

This is proof of the Kingdom Come Community working together, lifting up, loving, and encouraging one another. The Church is answering the call.