November 9 2025 - Jesse Schlabach

Jesse Schlabach, the director of the Men's Division at Haven of Rest, discussed the impact of colder weather in November on the people they serve, noting that the seasonal change drives more unhoused individuals to seek shelter and services, despite a general increase in numbers compared to the previous year. When guests arrive, the 24/7 staff conducts a brief intake, assesses their immediate needs like clothing or shelter, and begins the process of moving them from crisis and chaos toward stability and control. Beyond meeting basic needs, the long-term goal is transformation through Christ, which involves addressing life-controlling issues like mental health, addiction, or unemployment through case management, as well as providing spiritual guidance through chapel services and Bible studies. The staff works to help guests overcome resistance to structure by listening to their individual stories, building relationships, and giving encouragement and direction to help them become thriving members of the community, ultimately focusing on helping them obtain housing and work. Jesse asked for prayers for his staff to have the strength, wisdom, and discernment needed to deal with a wide range of situations as the numbers increase.