Spring Break Mission Trip

Nine students and three staff participated in this year’s alternative spring break mission trip in San Francisco, Calif. The team joined a group from Concordia University and stayed at San Francisco Mission Outpost, located in one of the most violent and drug-infested neighborhoods in the city. Students gained new awareness of urban poverty and other issues, such as cost of living, income disparity, un-written city “containment policies” for homeless, drug and gang culture, and existing relief agency programs.

The week began with the team preparing 4,500 pounds of food at a food bank that statistically serves one out of three people in San Francisco. Other activities included assisting with City Team Ministries, serving meals, cleaning facilities, and delivering Meals That Heal to Single Occupancy Room hotels (SRO’s) with the Salvation Army.

A substantial amount of time was spent hanging out with youth at the ministry City Crossroads, teaching lessons, and listening to their struggles with school. As the team trekked back to Portland, the consensus was that the trip was an invaluable experience. Several students expressed a desire to return and work again with City Crossroads, or work with the Portland chapter of City Team. Thank you to all staff and faculty for praying for the team.