A Monthly Hero Profile: Chris Walker

How did you become interested/connected to Water Street Mission? I became aware of Water Street Mission when my sister began working for this great Organization. As I began researching what they were doing in the community, and the culture within the Organization, I felt very compelled to get involved. I enjoy reading the monthly newsletters, […]
A Monthly Hero Profile: Carol Esch

How did you become interested/connected to Water Street Mission? Several years ago I received a mailing from Water Street describing their work and their need for volunteers in various areas. I was intrigued by the idea of going on a tour of WSM, and when I did, I was so amazed at the breadth and […]
A Monthly Hero Profile: Chet and Sharon Beiler

How did you become interested/connected to Water Street Mission? For many years Sharon and I have been aware of and pleased to partner with the wonderful work of WSM. We have had the privilege of working with others in our community who have encouraged us to support the work and reach out to those in […]
The Virtual Isaiah 61 Awards Celebration 2020

“The LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” Isaiah 61 Each year we recognize four individuals who represent Water Street Mission’s values, uplifting the most vulnerable, and turning their own hardships into grace and love for the Lancaster community. Like Jack Crowley, President of Water Street Mission explained last Friday night, […]
Refugees at Water Street Health Services

“Before the war we were living the retired life,” Volodymyr and Maria say. Going to museums and church, spending time in the garden. This was their life before the war in Ukraine broke out. Like many, they tried to survive in their war-torn home. But when a rocket suddenly came straight at their window, only […]
Living Transformed

“Life is what happens after you’ve already made plans,” said someone a long time ago. For many of the people who walk through our doors here at Water Street, their life plan didn’t include becoming homeless. It just happened after life tossed them something they didn’t plan. Deborah arrived at Water Street after a long battle with […]
Leaving Poverty

When Jose was in the third grade he moved into a room at Water Street Ministries also known as the Mission. He didn’t want to be called “homeless” and he didn’t want to be called a “shelter kid”. Those were some of the things he remembers. Beyond that, Jose looks back on that year of eating, sleeping, and growing […]
Jesselys Gives Her Heart to Jesus

He was nice and he was kind.” says Jesselys, describing Jesus. “He loves everyone.” This Spring, one of our Wonder Academy Students decided to give her heart to Christ. At just five years old, Jesselys told her teacher she was ready and went home to pray with her mother and father. “And then I went […]
Finding A Home Away From Home

At 13 years old, Genesis found herself at Teen Haven, tagging along with her older siblings. The people were friendly and inviting, but still, she says, “I didn’t want anything to do with Teen Haven.” Back then, Genesis was going through a transition in her life. While she was raised with a strong belief in […]
From Crowd Follower to Water Street Leader

There was a time when Steve’s mom stayed up late each night, pacing in her bedroom and praying “Lord, please don’t take my son.” Little did she know all God was about to do in his life. His trials began when, as Steve puts it, he made bad choices to go into the streets of […]