Together, We’re Building Hope — One Meal, One Project, One Life at a Time

As we near the end of another year of service, our hearts are full of gratitude for you — our faithful supporters who make the work of Open Door Mission possible every single day.

Code Blue season is underway, and we’re preparing to meet a record level of need for the fourth consecutive year. Last winter, we provided shelter for 370 guests, totaling more than 3,600 bed nights and 10,800 hot meals — each one offering warmth, safety, and hope on the coldest nights of the year.


Because of your generosity, this Thanksgiving we’ll be able to serve hundreds of meals to neighbors who might otherwise go without. Each warm plate represents more than food — it’s comfort, dignity, and a reminder that our community cares. Thank you for being part of that compassion.


And while we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead with great excitement: in just two weeks, we’ll break ground on our brand-new laundry facility! This project will bring clean clothing and linens to men, women, and families who rely on the Mission — a simple act that restores confidence and health. It’s another step forward in creating a place where transformation begins with the basics. We’re in an exciting season of growth and transformation at Open Door Mission. In addition to our upcoming laundry project, we’re actively planning two more vital additions — a new chapel and a mental health clinic — each designed to bring healing, hope, and renewal to those we serve.


As the Christmas season approaches, our team is preparing to serve even more holiday dinners — each one filled with hope and love. While we’re deeply grateful for the support already given, we’re still in need of additional funding to ensure that every guest has a seat at the table this Christmas. Your year-end gift can help make that possible.


From all of us at Open Door Mission, thank you for standing beside us — not just at the holidays, but all year long. Because of you, lives are changing, hope is rising, and our community is stronger than ever.


Wishing you and your family a blessed Thanksgiving.



With gratitude,

The Open Door Mission Team



🪑 Conversations on a Bench: A 24-Hour Success

Last month, Executive Director Jamie Munyon spent 24 hours on a park bench in downtown Glens Falls — not to simulate homelessness, but to create connection.


Throughout the day and night, Jamie spoke with local residents, mission guests, community leaders, and ministry partners about the realities of homelessness — and the hope that change is possible.


“Every person has a story worth listening to,” Jamie shared.


The event sparked meaningful dialogue across our community and online, reminding us that compassion begins with listening.


Thank you to everyone who stopped by, watched, and shared their heart!


👉 Watch Videos or Learn More



🍝 Bella Notte – Pasta With a Purpose: A Night to Remember

Our first-ever Bella Notte: Pasta With a Purpose was a beautiful success! Hosted at Seasoned, Adirondack Culinary School’s restaurant, the evening brought together over 60 friends and supporters for a four-course dinner prepared by ACC’s talented culinary students.


Thanks to generous sponsors and guests, the event raised vital funds for The Open Door’s programs — helping men and women take their next steps toward safe, stable, and self-sufficient lives.


A heartfelt thank-you to ACC, our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who made this “beautiful night” possible!



🍽 See Photos from the Event



🦃 Join us for Thanksgiving Dinner

Tuesday, November 25 | 11:30 a.m. | 226 Warren Street


No one should spend Thanksgiving alone. Join us for our Community Thanksgiving Dinner — a warm meal, friendly faces, and gratitude shared around the table.



All are welcome — no registration needed.


💙 Giving Tuesday: Less than 2 Months Away!


This #GivingTuesday (December 2), we’re raising funds to provide winter coats, boots, and hats for neighbors in need.


Every gift brings warmth and hope this winter:


🧤$18 = a cozy hat and gloves

🥾$28 = a sturdy pair of boots

🥾🧤$46 = the complete winter gear set of hat, gloves, and boots


Help us reach our goal to keep every neighbor safe and warm this season.


💙 Give Early or Learn More



💌 A Note of Gratitude 

Dear Volunteers, 

As the temperatures drop, we’re preparing once again for Code Blue season—a time when our community truly shines its light. Thank you for answering the call year after year to provide warmth, safety, and compassion to those without shelter. Your presence during those cold nights offers more than a bed and a meal—it offers dignity and hope. 

🌟 Volunteer Spotlight

This month we celebrate Jennifer Gonroff, who has faithfully served on our overnight team for the past 4 years. Her steady kindness and calm presence have made countless guests feel welcome and safe. Thank you, Jen, for your heart and dedication! 

 


📅 What's New This Season

  • Orientation & Refresher Training 
  • Join us for a brief overview of procedures, safety protocols, and new updates for this winter. 
  • 📅 Saturday, November 8th at 9:30am | 📍226 Warren St, Glens Falls, New York 12801 
  • RSVP via VolunteerHub or email Kayleigh at kayleighb@opendoor-ny.org. 
  • Supply Drive 
  • We’re collecting warm socks, gloves, blankets, and travel-size hygiene items. Donations can be dropped off at 226 Warren St, Glens Falls, New York 12801. 
  • Meal Teams Needed 
  • We’re still looking for groups or individuals to help with evening meals and breakfast shifts during Code Blue activations. 


👉 Sign up on VolunteerHub Open Door Mission or contact Kayleigh Brooks at kayleighb@opendoor-ny.org  



📢 Code Blue Reminders 

  • Activation alerts are sent via email —please make sure your contact info is up to date in VolunteerHub. 
  • Volunteers should arrive 15 minutes before their shift for updates and assignments. 
  • Dress warmly and bring a reusable water bottle—snacks will be available! 




🙏 Scripture of Encouragement 


"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me." 

— Matthew 25:35 


🛠️ Mission Needs List 


Right now, we are in urgent need of: 

  • Twin-size bedding, new or lightly used 
  • Shaving cream and razors 
  • Men's deodorant 
  • New Women’s underwear 



Donations can be dropped off Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM. Or shop our Amazon Wish List! 


📅 Upcoming Events 


Annual Homelessness Awareness Event - November 13th


Join us at The Park Theater on Thursday, November 13 at 3:00 PM for an important community conversation on homelessness in our region. Together, we’ll explore the causes, challenges, and solutions to this growing issue—and hear from those on the front lines working to make a difference. This event is part of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week and is hosted by The Open Door Mission. All are welcome to attend.



Gobble Wobble – November 27 

Lace up for the 5th Annual Turkey Trot supporting Open Door Mission’s winter shelter. 

Whether you run, walk, or wobble, you’ll be helping provide warmth and safety to those in need this winter. 


Sign up here

📣 Partner With Us 


Your partnership turns hunger into nourishment, despair into hope, and homelessness into home. 


Give today. Pray for our guests. Spread the word. 


Together, we’re transforming lives. 

👉 DONATE NOW | VOLUNTEER | SUBSCRIBE 




🦃 Give the Gift of Thanksgiving for $50


This Thanksgiving, you can bring hope — and a holiday meal — to a local family in need. For just $50, you’ll provide a Thanksgiving basket filled with everything needed for a festive feast: a turkey and all the traditional sides. 🥧🥔🍂



Your generosity ensures that every family can gather around the table and give thanks, no matter their circumstances.


👉 Give $50 today and share the spirit of Thanksgiving with a neighbor in need.


Donate a Thanksgiving Dinner

Spread Holiday Cheer with The Open Door Mission!


This season, we're filled with gratitude for your support. To share our heartfelt thanks, we've created a special holiday card just for you!

Inside, you'll find a message of hope and joy, a reflection of what your generosity makes possible for those in need. Make a donation in someone's honor and we'll send you this card to gift to them.



Link to make donation and receive card:


Donate and Receive Holiday Card

Facebook  X  Instagram