Ballard Ecumenical Ministry (BEM) is now in the sixth year of operation serving the homeless mentally ill. BEM is a ministry of hospitality. Guests are provided a warm and inviting “living room” atmosphere, a good meal, evening companionship, and a safe overnight place to sleep.
This is a ministry of listening; giving security, warmth, and acceptance. BEM's mission is to be a companion, not a case manager or therapist. BEM's objective is to provide a warm and safe shelter in an atmosphere of respect.
BEM is open four nights. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are at Crown Hill UMC; Thursdays and Fridays at Northminster Presbyterian. Over the last six years other area churches have joined to provide volunteers including Woodland Park UMC, Ballard First Lutheran, Our Redeemer Lutheran, Phinney Ridge Lutheran, Woodland Park Presbyterian, and Fairwood Assembly of God.
BEM is now teamed with the Downtown Emergency Service Center HOST Project for guest referrals. HOST (Homeless Outreach Stabilization and Transition) is an outreach and case management program serving the Seattle homeless.
BEM is always looking for volunteers. Volunteer opportunities include transportation from downtown to Ballard, providing and preparing meals, hosting with guests from 5:00-9:00 pm, overnighters to sleep with the guests, and doing laundry weekly.
Contacts:
Volunteer Coordinator Kay Glasscock (206) 784-3789
Hosting Coordinator John Skans (206) 782-7250
Meal Coordinator Janet Brooking (206) 784-8574
Overnight Coordinator Deb Fitchitt (206) 297-8939
Laundry Coordinator Carol Alley (206) 782-8213
BEM Executive Board Offices are located:
Northminster Presbyterian Church (206) 783-3402