Rescue Mission hosting fourth annual online auction

Date: 3/16/2009

By Laura Christiansen

Staff Intern



The Springfield Rescue Mission will be hosting the Homeless Outreach Auction, an online auction, now through March 31 at 9 p.m. The profits of this auction go toward helping those in need in the Greater Springfield area.

The auction will include several items. There are gift certificates to Pazzo Restaurant, The Big E, Six Flags New England and others.

There are also vacation trips open for auction. Some include a trip to Manhattan, a trip to Disney World and rafting trips.

Attorney Michael Frazee has donated a new Callaway golf bag to the auction.

"In the past, I was the chairperson of the Springfield Rescue Mission golf tournament. We haven't done it for a few years now and I am an avid golfer; I know that many affiliated with the mission are avid golfers," Frazee said.

"I chose to donate because I completely believe in the work that is being done at the Springfield Rescue Mission. They address the problem of homelessness by introducing the residents to a new way of life. The residents are required to attend classes, learn computer training, work to improve their lives, and free themselves from addiction," he added.

More items will be added as the auction progresses.

The money raised from this auction helps the mission provide several programs that help people who need assistance.

"We have an emergency shelter. The men get a shower, evening meal, a chapel service, a bed for the night, and breakfast in the morning. We also have a rehabilitation program for those under addiction. They go through the program and live in our Transitional Living Center so they have a chance to get back on their feet," Julie Barnes, the Community Services Coordinator for the Springfield Rescue Mission, said.

The money from the auction also helps the mission provide food. They give out food boxes and Big Y coins to those that need them.

The funds raised also go toward providing meals for those in the shelter.

"We serve breakfast Monday through Saturday and we seat between 100 and 130 people each morning," Barnes said.

The mission does not currently have a facility to house women and children, but, according to Barnes, it is a goal for the future.

To participate in the auction, visit their Web site at www.spfldrescuemission.cmarket.com.