Upon This Rock Community Shelter
“On Nov 22, 2022
God blessed Upon this rock under the leadership of Apostle Washington to birth a warming center housing 35 males and females in our church dining hall, in July 2023 God increased UTRM to operate a shelter housing an additional 50 unhoused guests located at 209 Terminal Lane.
November 1, 2023, the Lord increased our capacity, we moved the warming center out of the church dining hall into the school where we housed 67 unhoused guests at the old Strong School on 130 Orchard St.
On Feb 1, 2024, God entrusted UTRM through to oversee a family triage where we housed over 50 families. This is the fast that the Lord has chosen. Isaiah 58: 6-7 “ 6 )Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?
7 )Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”
God in his faithfulness enlarged our capacity again. On March 26, 2024, God blessed us to purchase 645 Grand Ave. a 6,300 square ft facility where we currently are housing women and children. As of September 1, 2024, 645 Grand Ave will operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week as a male shelter with 75 beds.”
“When a community comes together with compassion and purpose, it has the power to create a refuge of hope a shelter is more than just a place to stay-it is a testament to unity, kindness, & the unwavering belief that no one should left out in the cold.
*******Special thanks to Melissa Koomson & Choate Rosemary Hall of Wallingford CT
“Building strong partnerships is essential in addressing hunger, health, and mental well-being in our communities. By collaborating with local organizations, businesses, and service providers, we can create sustainable solutions that ensure individuals in need have access to nutritious food, essential healthcare, and mental health support. Together, we can foster a healthier, more compassionate society where no one is left behind.”
James Sweat
Motivational Speaker
Conflict Management with Pastor John Lewis
Christ New Testament Church
Blessed & Highly Favored!
Kingdom Men Success Stories
Hello, my name is Christopher M. Goff, like many of you, I have seen the ups and downs of my life! I have struggled and made ways due, even bye means of hurting someone, homeless. I have cheated and lied a lot in my life time! The days went bye slow, as my stress progress. Never did I thought I would be the man to sit here and talk to you guys, but I am grateful! I haven't felt this type of depression in a long time, but I learned how to move forward! I am a simple, humble, father and dad to the truth of my words! Faith will carry you a long way, believing in yourself is proof! Upon This Rock helped me become an even better person than I am already, they helped me with shelter and obtain my house to be able to allow my children to come stay with me. In my past I blamed people for my own failure in my life. I even went as far as couldn't see what myself as being respected as a man. Life is a challenge we as a person wasn't ready for but I'm here now! Taking the time to understand your own flaws and things we need to do as humans, just to be successful in our own minds as a person is insignificant! The blessing that you want, that you need and that you crave is here, just look inside yourself! Loving yourself and loving the past is equal. Do not give up on yourself, believe..... Just like I did! If there is a wrong in life, there is a positive, learn to love to grow and be somebody to yourself first and the become somebody to someone else in this world! Be blessed, I’m truly grateful for all the help this program has provided from case management, and the available wrap around services.Thank you. ChrisI am writing this letter to express my deepest gratitude and to recommend this shelter as a truly exceptional place for anyone in need of support, care, and a fresh start. My experience at your shelter was nothing short of life-changing, and I want to ensure that others recognize the incredible work you do.
From the moment I arrived, I was met with compassion and professionalism. The staff’s unwavering dedication to the well-being of every individual is evident in every interaction. They go above and beyond to create a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment. Whether it was providing practical assistance, offering a listening ear, or encouraging me to take steps toward personal growth, I always felt supported.
The resources available at this shelter are remarkable. The clean and comfortable living spaces, access to nutritious meals, and programs designed to foster self-sufficiency were instrumental in helping me rebuild my confidence and plan for the future. Additionally, the workshops and counseling services offered were both insightful and transformative.
What stands out most to me is the sense of community the shelter fosters. The connections I made with both staff and fellow residents provided a sense of belonging and hope that carried me through challenging times. It is evident that everyone involved in this organization genuinely cares about making a positive impact in people’s lives.
I wholeheartedly recommend this shelter to anyone who is seeking assistance or considering supporting a cause that changes lives. Your work is not only essential but also inspiring, and I am forever grateful for the time I spent under your care.
Thank you for all that you do.
-Mbaye Thiam
I am incredibly thankful to Upon This Rock Outreach Inc. for providing me with a safe place to stay until I was able to get into permanent housing. Helping me with my substance abuse, and keeping me focused on my journey to recovery. Special thanks to my case manager Arlette, who never let me give up hope, and Ms. D for always offering an encouraging word when I needed it most. Upon This Rock Outreach has been a guiding light in my life, and without them, I would still be lost. I thank God every day for their support and love.
~Richard “Lucky” Hernandez
I am grateful to Upon This Rock Outreach Inc. for welcoming me with open arms, when I arrived from Florida with nothing and no family. From the moment I stepped into the shelter, I gained a new family. I’m so thankful for the support from Pastor Val and Ms. D, who were there for me through my recovery after having my skull put back on and helping me secure housing. Arlette, who is currently helping me with finding a job. Even after I got housing, they continued to support me. The prayers from Nana ( Rosa staff employee) in the mornings mean the world to me. Thank you all for being my new family.
~Nestor Olmo
Our vision is to rebuild our community one family at a time. Upon This Rock purchased the old EMS building to restore and revitalize it and create a 24-hour 7 days a week community shelter that will house 75 individuals. We want our front end to be a drop-in center for resources such as housing, children & families support, Re-entry assistance, food assistance, mental health support and so much more. Our goal is to have this building up and running before the harsh winter months come to provide unhoused individuals with the help and support they need.