How is the ministry of Pacific Garden Mission funded?

The Mission is funded through the financial gifts of individuals, churches, organizations and legacies. The Mission does not receive any government funding.

How long do homeless people stay at Pacific Garden Mission?

The length of time homeless people stay at the Mission varies according to each individual's situation and need. It is our desire to bring each one to salvation and maturity in Christ, therefore we work with each person with that long term goal in mind.

Where do you obtain the food that is served each day?

We estimate that about 20-25% of the food we serve each day is received through direct food donations. This includes food from the Greater Chicago Food Depository, local bread, bagel, and pastry shops and restaurants, as well as non-perishables provided by concerned friends of the Mission. The rest of the food is purchased with financial gifts, especially those gifts designated for this purpose.

How can we have "UNSHACKLED!" aired in our area?

First, check our Radio Station Log to determine whether there is already a station airing "UNSHACKLED!" in your area. If there is not, pray for God's direction as to which station to approach. Then write a letter to the station manager explaining in your words why you believe they should consider including "UNSHACKLED!" in their schedule. Prayerfully await their response. If they are interested, send us the station call letters, address, and the name of the station manager. We will send them a packet of materials along with a demo tape or CD.

We have seen a number of stations add "UNSHACKLED!" to their schedule simply because of the request of a listener. Your interest speaks volumes to station managers. Above all else, pray and trust God. He will make possible the broadcast of the program in just the places He wants it. May He be glorified as many come to Christ through "UNSHACKLED!"

Can visitors stay overnight at Pacific Garden Mission?

We're sorry, but because of the number of homeless who come to us each night for housing in our dorms, the Mission is not able to provide overnight accommodations for visitors. We can, however, provide rate information on a few hotels and motels in the area.

How can I help?

There are several ways interested individuals can help the Mission. Click here to get all the details. Our number one need is prayer. The ministry cannot be what God wants it to be without total dependence on Him.

How did Pacific Garden Mission get its name?

In 1880 Colonel George Clarke found a larger building for what was then known as "Col. Clarke's Mission." It was a building vacated by the notorious Pacific Beer Garden. Evangelist Dwight L. Moody suggested that the Clarkes drop the word Beer and add the word Mission, and call it Pacific Garden Mission. For more background information and photos from Mission archives, check out our History and Photo Gallery.

Where does "UNSHACKLED!" get its actors?

We use only professional actors who are members of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). The Mission uses professional actors in order to provide the highest quality productions possible. This is especially important because the actors must be able to portray a wide range of dialects, accents, and ages in order to present each story accurately.

Do you have a question about the ministry of Pacific Garden Mission? Please feel free to e-mail us at pgm@pgm.org.