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We all have seen those less fortunate living on the streets or sitting at expressway exits hoping for a hand out as they hold up a sign. So often, we turn and look the other way or even avoid walking in their direction. In the heart of downtown Detroit, there is an organization called the Pope Francis Center whose mission is to help those in need by providing them with basic essentials, but possibly just as valuable, is their compassionate in-person outreach we see through the daily work of Father Tim McCabe, a Jesuit Priest, and the visionarian and director of the Pope Francis Center.
Yesterday, we had the chance to document Father McCabe outside the Pope Francis Center taking the time to listen to the dozens that have found the streets and sidewalks around the center a safe place to be during the morning hours.
As Father McCabe explained, "These are just people who have fallen on hard times for one reason or another. In many cases they just want to be listened to.โ
From 7am - 11am, Monday - Saturday, the Pope Francis Center provides two nutritious meals, access to hot showers and hygiene items, laundry services, and housing assistance to those experiencing homelessness. Guests also receive free medical, dental and legal support through rotating clinics. The center serves over 200 people daily.
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Like all great leaders, faith and belief in your vision can help make things happen. This is definitely the case of the Bridge Housing Campus currently under construction. Father McCabe spearheaded this entire development with the support of the community and foundations who share the same vision. The site is estimated to be completed by spring of 2024. The facility will provide guests with 90 - 120 days of shelter, along with intensive medical, respite, psychological, addiction, social and job-readiness services. This will allow guests the adequate time and support needed before transitioning into permanent supportive housing.
We are thrilled we can feature Father McCabe and the Pope Francis Center in our film.
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We then headed over to the Salvation Army headquarters in Southfield to meet with Lt. Col. Steve Merritt, the divisional commander and regional CEO for The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division. As a long-time employee for the last 30 years, Lt. Col. Merritt explained the history behind the 158 year old organization.
Most people only know The Salvation Army as their local thrift store or see their neighbors ringing bells during the holidays to fill those bright red kettles with donations. However, the Salvation Army has a rich history and a loyal following dedicated to their mission.
Founded by William and Catherine Booth in London, England in 1865, The Salvation Army is a faith-based, non-profit organization dedicated to serving people in need without discrimination. They have been Doing the Most Good in southeast Michigan for 133 years, bringing critical, essential services to those in need.
As a pastor, William Booth experienced a vision from God, and this vision is what inspired taking the gospel to the streets to help people fight not a physical battle, but a spiritual battle with themselves. The Salvation Army was modeled after the military, with its own flag and its own music. Booth and the other soldiers in "God's Army" would wear the army's own uniform, 'putting on the armour,' for meetings and ministry work.
Today, The Salvation Army serves 133 countries across the world with the same mission for the last 158 years: to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
As one of the most popular organizations in the world devoted to serving those in need, we are happy for their involvement in this film that will hopefully shed light on this growing societal issue.
As our production for The Razorโs Edge continues, we will step into the daily lives of those who rely on the support of The Salvation Army as well as those who are part of this historical team.
#DoingTheMostGood