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Robert's Road to Restoration
As an organization who consistently serves so many individuals from different circumstances, success can look very different for us. However, one of the many forms of success that we love to see is when clients not only receive from the Rescue Ministry, but wish to pour into it. Robert is an exceptional example of this.
Robert first came to the Rescue Ministry in January of 2024, and ever since he got here he has invested in the work we do. When clients enroll in the Rescue Ministry’s programs, there is a level of volunteering involved as part of the program operations, however Robert went above and beyond the tasks he was given.
Eventually, the Front Desk Coordinator trained Robert on those responsibilities, and he was able to perform some simple repairs to equipment that needed maintenance. Robert also provided help to the Rescue Ministry during the storm, helping unload trucks of supplies and taking the lead on how to sort different donations.
Now, we are overjoyed to announce that Robert is officially a Staff member of WCRM! He is employed as the Pantry Coordinator, and oversees all donations in the Rescue Ministry’s J-House (donation center). This includes all food donations that the kitchen staff and Food Service Director use to prepare meals, and immediate supplies that program staff might need such as hygiene items, or car seats and strollers for children.
Robert came to WCRM in need of a place to stay, but he found more fulfillment than he expected. The sense of responsibility has brought him a newfound joy, and seeing others impacted by his work only adds to it.
These success stories inspire us not only as an organization, but as a community. We are so blessed to see the men, women, and children we serve rebuild their lives and start fresh. However, when they make the decision to pour back into others being served by the Rescue Ministry, it is nothing short of inspiring. We are so grateful to have a community that not only helps others, but helps itself too!
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Hope Looks Like This
A warm meal after days without one.
A safe bed when the streets feel endless.
A second chance at work, family, and healing.
Tears of joy in a chapel service.
A life reclaimed through recovery.
This is the IMPACT of your generosity.
It’s already happening—with every donation, hope has taken root.
Help keep it going.
Your gift brings light, dignity, and restoration.
Email Amanda Putnam at amandap@westerncarolinarescue.org if you are interested in taking a tour to see the impact you are making!
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Clothing Closet Volunteers
Each week, rain or shine, two incredible women quietly go about the work of serving others with compassion and grace. Patsy and Hilary have faithfully volunteered in our Clothing Closet for many years, giving their time, energy, and hearts to ensure that those in need have access to clean, organized, and appropriate clothing.
Their work is often behind the scenes—sorting donations, organizing shelves, and helping individuals find just the right items—but the impact they make is both visible and lasting. Whether it’s a warm coat for someone facing a harsh winter or a fresh outfit that brings dignity to someone starting a new job, Patsy and Hilary are there to meet the need with kindness and care.
We’re also deeply thankful for Ciaran and Melissa, who each serve when they can and bring so much heart to the Clothing Closet. Ciaran has dedicated many hours with a spirit of generosity and a steady presence that helps keep things running smoothly. Melissa is always ready to jump in when there's a need, often on short notice, and her willingness to help is a true blessing to the team. We’re grateful for both of them and the important role they play in supporting this ministry.
Together, this group of volunteers helps make our Clothing Closet a place of warmth, dignity, and hope. Their consistency and dedication reflect the heart of Christ in action, and we are incredibly grateful for each of them.
Please join us in celebrating Patsy, Hilary, Ciaran, and Melissa for the vital role they play in this ministry. We thank God for their servant hearts!
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Light Up the Night 5K Registration is Open
We are Seeking Sponsors to Transform Lives
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We’re racing for funding to transform the lives of Men, Women, and Children across Western North Carolina.
Light Up the Night 5K is a glow-in-the-dark, evening fundraiser that will benefit the work of Western Carolina Rescue Ministries. Finish Well Timing will time the event, and it is open to walk or run!
This year, we are pursuing funding for the need for life transformation in the men, women, and children being served in all of our programs.
Our mission is to help every individual who seeks our assistance through Rescue, providing safe shelter and necessities; Recovery, through one of our Addiction Recovery Programs; and Restoration, through life counselling, job training, and assistance with transitional services.
Friday, August 8, 2025 | 7:00 p.m. | Asheville’s Carrier Park
Calling all levels of athleticism! Beginners, intermediate, and advanced walkers, joggers, and runners all are welcome. Timing is not required to participate!
Race with us for Rescue, Recovery and Restoration in Jesus' name.
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Message by Micheal Woods, ED
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"A Vision to See and Believe."
I've been thinking lately about a passage in the Bible that talks about God's graciousness to Abram. This has been on my heart because I am convinced it contains a principle that a lot of people find hard to accept.
In the account found in Genesis 13, Abram (later renamed Abraham) was traveling with his nephew Lot. Their flocks were, “So great that they could not dwell together” (13:6). In a move that can only be called humble and kind, Abram gave Lot the first choice of all the available land. Lot (selfishly) took the most fertile and welcoming land for his flock, but true to his word, Abram accepted the leftover land without complaint.
Shortly after Lot’s family, flocks, and herdsmen left for the prime property, God spoke to Abram and did two things -- things that I hope you embrace for yourself.
The first thing God did was give Abram a vision, and the second thing God did was make a promise to secure that vision.
Friend, I'm convinced God works like that with us too.
Has there ever been a time when you looked around, dreamed a God-sized dream, only to retreat from it in fear? If we are honest with ourselves, I think we can all admit to a time when we have done that. Whether we were intimidated, crippled by imposter syndrome, or filled with messages of inadequacy, we have all at some time backed down from the greatness only God can fulfill in us.
| | Thank you for being an essential part of Western Carolina Rescue Ministries. Together, we are already witnessing lives being transformed, and we are filled with hope for those who will come to us seeking their second chance. We look forward to all the opportunities this year will bring as we continue making a difference...together. - The WCRM Team | | |
Physical Location:
225 Patton Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 909, Asheville, NC 28802
Phone Number:
828-254-0471
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