This podcast focuses on the multifaceted housing affordability crisis in the United States, and potential solutions. First, it highlights how restrictive zoning laws and NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) perpetuate segregation and limit housing supply, driving up housing costs and exacerbating homelessness. It traces the historical evolution of these barriers, from explicit racial zoning to seemingly neutral policies that still disproportionately impact marginalized communities.Then, the podcast describes how the YIGBY (Yes in God's Backyard) movement could be a potential solution for this crisis. This movement advocates for faith-based organizations (FBOs) to use some of their land for affordable housing development, making use of policy reforms like "by-right" zoning, density bonuses, and streamlined permitting.The podcast details new collaborative models where rescue missions and similar organizations can work together with qualified developers and other nonprofits, in order to create more affordable housing opportunities. The YIGBY movement is addressing how homelessness rates are driven in part by lack of affordable housing, and your mission could be part of it.You can find any articles and research related to this episode as well as how we developed this podcast here or using the link below.

This podcast gives an overview of the book Called to Serve in Rescue Ministry by Lorraine Minor. You can purchase the book at https://a.co/d/7c1pdfaThe podcast provides Christ-centered principles for those engaged in Rescue Mission ministry to the poor and homeless. It focuses on servant leadership modeled after Jesus. It builds a foundation by describing the history and purpose of Rescue Missions, how to develop a Biblical worldview, and how to address various types of poverty beyond the material.Following that, it provides guidance on practical skills like asking effective questions, providing clear instructions, fostering accountability, practicing hospitality, and managing relationships within the mission environment. It also addresses navigating personal challenges like stress, difficult attitudes, failure, and burnout. Throughout, it highlights the importance of truth, grace, and surrender to God.You can read about how this podcast fits within the Rescue Mission History Project here or using the link below.

This podcast gives an overview of the book More than a Homeless Shelter: A Perspective on Residential Rescue Ministry Programming, by Chris Hedlund. You can purchase the book at https://a.co/d/bXVjsQ3 The podcast outlines principles and practices for creating effective programs at rescue missions that go beyond basic shelter to facilitate lasting life change. It emphasizes addressing root issues, not just symptoms like homelessness or addiction, and highlights the importance of building healthy relationships and fostering a supportive program culture focused on healing and faith. Key elements of successful programs include individualized treatment plans, understanding stages of addiction recovery, and developing character and positive attitudes as crucial indicators of long-term success. The podcast also provides guidance on ethical responsibilities and maintaining appropriate boundaries within the ministry setting. You can read about how this podcast fits within the Rescue Mission History Project here or using the link below.