Kokomo Rescue Mission holds 24th annual fundraiser

This article is brought to you by the Kokomo Family YMCA. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Available treatments can alleviate symptoms and minimize the frequency of exacerbations. Join Kaitlin Jasmon, PA, with Community COPD Care as she explores the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for COPD. We look forward to seeing you in the downtown YMCA Community Room on Friday, March 7th! Register here: https://kokomoymca.org/events/first-friday-lunch-learn/

A FREE LUNCH will be provided to those who register before 3/2/25! This 40-minute Lunch and Learn has limited seating.

Well over 100 walkers gathered on the lot adjoining the Kokomo Rescue Mission facilities on Feb. 22 for the 24th Walk a Mile in My Shoes event, despite the bitter cold weather. Low temperatures are just one of countless challenges a homeless person faces in winter.

It was just a taste, but those in attendance understood. Homelessness is a crisis that must be constantly addressed. It won’t go away, but people with compassion can make the experience a bit easier. Kokomo Rescue Mission director Kevin Smith explained that the walk takes place in the depths of winter for a reason.

“Truthfully, we didn't want it to be 60 and sunny, because it's not for the homeless for the entire winter,” said Smith. “We want you to experience a little bit. We want to increase our compassion, our awareness a little bit, and maybe motivate us to help.”

To that end, all of the facilities operated by the rescue mission opened their doors to the walkers. Rather than just walk a mile along the trail bisecting downtown Kokomo, the participants were encouraged to witness for themselves what their continued generosity supports.

Smith explained that all of the mission’s facilities were open for touring during the walk, including the mission itself, the Watered Garden women’s shelter, and the Open Arms shelter for women and children. He encouraged the participants to visit each location as part of the one-mile trek.

And, once the walking had taken place, the participants were welcomed to share in a breakfast at Grace United Methodist Church.

“When you are in need, when you're homeless, you sometimes feel all alone,” said Smith. “We want you to know that when you walk to these shelters, there are women and staff who have been cleaning all week for company. They will be thrilled when they see you come in. It will remind them they're not alone.

“This is an encouragement. The money is great. We appreciate those of you who have raised funds, but it's just such an encouragement to gather together and be reminded we're a community.”

Mayor Tyler Moore was in attendance, ready to walk alongside so many who wanted to show their support. He expressed appreciation for the work done by and for the rescue mission.

“Everything that the Rescue Mission does, year after year, day after day, throughout the years, they couldn't do it without your support and the support of so many others in this community,” said Moore. “You are lifting others up. There are so many in need in our community, not just from Kokomo, but from outlying communities who come here because they know the heart that this community has for each other and for those most in need.”

Moore thanked the mission staff, the volunteers, and those participating in the walk for their efforts. He also recognized the many churches, nonprofit agencies, and others who give in various ways to help the homeless.

“To share your blessings with them is a blessing for our community,” said Moore.

The mayor read a proclamation, designating Feb. 22, 2025, as Walk a Mile in My Shoes Day in Kokomo. Then, it was time to walk.

Participants headed north along the Industrial Heritage Trail, eventually arriving at Open Arms, roughly a half mile away from the mission. Others took side trips to the mission, which is currently undergoing a major expansion, or they visited the Watered Garden.

The mission later named the top fundraisers for Walk a Mile 2025. The Rossville Bible Fellowship topped the list, followed by Team Vance Loves Walk a Mile, Connexion Church for KRM, Comprehensive Planning Corp., and Grace United Methodist Church to round out the top five.

The next five donor groups included Galveston First Baptist Church, Jerome Christian Church, UAW Local 1166, the Women of Steel from USW Local 2958, and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

For additional information about the Kokomo Rescue Mission and its many programs, visit www.kokomorescuemission.org, email them at missioninfo@rescuekokomo.org or call 765-456-3838.

See additional photos from the 24th annual Walk a Mile in My Shoes on the Lantern’s Facebook page or group.