Fighting homelessness, addiction and poverty in the Twin Cities since 1902. We welcome all with kindness, compassion and dignity.
Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities (UGMTC) opened its doors more than 120 years ago to feed, shelter and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with Saint Paul dock workers, laborers and lumberjacks. Through the years, our programming evolved to meet the changing needs of men, women and children experiencing homelessness, hunger and addiction.
Our emergency shelter provides guests with food, shelter and vital care—including mental health services. Once immediate needs are met, our staff walk alongside residents for up to two years, providing Bible study, professional counseling, group therapy, education, mentorship, job-skills training, and financial skills instruction needed to thrive and live successfully in the community.
What Makes Us Different
Radical hospitality We welcome each guest who enters our doors with kindness, compassion and dignity. It often takes time to unravel the effects of homelessness and addiction. We offer the time our guests need to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually and provide the tools to build new lives.
Gospel-centered care Throughout all of our programs and services, the grace and love of Jesus Christ is shown and taught. We believe that it is through the life-transforming power of the Gospel that we consistently see cycles of poverty, addiction and homelessness broken and see changes that last a lifetime. Learn more about how we incorporate discipleship and chaplains into our programs.
Holistic programming We believe that the Good News of the Gospel is hope and healing for a person’s body, mind and soul. Our holistic approach uses individualized, integrated programs and services that address the root causes of homelessness and addiction. Learn more about our wraparound services including food and shelter, mental health services, addiction recovery, and adult education.
Measurable outcomes We want to see each person who participates in our programs grow in five areas. That means when transitioning out of our programs, each resident can say the following:
Faith—I have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Community—I have a sense of belonging. (i.e., church, AA, etc.)
Wellbeing—I am actively participating in my physical, mental and emotional health.
Income—I have improved my financial stability.
Housing—I have increased my housing stability
Programs and Services
Men’s Programs
Bethel Hotel (Emergency Services)—A free emergency shelter with over 180 cots and beds available each night for those in immediate need
Housing Plus—An affordable housing option for men who have a source of income. Minimal, flexible programming allows time for work and/or education
ACTS Training Program— A Bible-based, transitional housing program that offers life-skills and job-skills training along with addiction and trauma recovery
Christ Recovery Center— A residential housing and addiction recovery program that combines Bible-based teaching with 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Veterans Housing Program—A program that provides housing and services to U.S. veterans experiencing homelessness
Women’s and Children’s Programs
Naomi Family Program—Shelter, housing and programming for women and women with children ages 10 and under. Women are welcomed into the Discovery phase where they have access to Mission-wide services. The program includes Renewal or Housing Plus pathway options where women receive holistic support through an Individual Support Plan to help them meet their goals and grow toward safe and stable lives.
Child Development Center—A NAYCE-accredited, early childhood education program serving children six weeks old to kindergarten. Available to mothers participating in the NFP as well as children from the surrounding community.
Mission-wide Services
- Hot meals and food
- Safe shelter and clean bedding
- Free clothing and laundry
- Hot showers and hygiene products
- Chapel and Bible study
- Education and life-skills training
- Mental and chemical health services
- Case management
- Support services
- Financial-skills training and savings
- Job-skills training and résumé building
- Access and referrals to partner organizations including medical and dental care
Give to change lives.
Lives are changing every day at UGMTC. When you give generously, you are part of the transformation that ends homelessness. Join us in our fight against homelessness, addiction and poverty in our community today.