HARBOR LIGHT
A SAFE PLACE TO GROW
At Bright Futures Daycare, lives are changing in extraordinary ways.
MUSKEGON RESCUE MISSION TRI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER
When Dominique first held her baby girl Olivia, she knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy. Born with several health issues, Olivia cried endlessly—day and night. No daycare could manage her constant distress. As a single mother also caring for her young son Noah, who has a severe speech delay, Dominique was emotionally exhausted.
A New Start at Our Men’s Shelter This summer, we completed a $1.5 million renovation of our Men’s Shelter — transforming it into a space that truly reflects God’s heart for our community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the success of the Change Happens Here Capital Campaign, our newly renovated shelter offers men more than just a place to sleep — it provides them with a fresh start!
“I couldn’t leave my daughter with anyone,” Dominique shares. “I was afraid they wouldn’t be able to handle her. But Sandi at Muskegon Rescue Mission never turned us away. She just loved Olivia and cared for her.” That warm welcome was the beginning of a new chapter. Bright Futures Daycare didn’t just open its doors—they opened their hearts. “It’s hard to trust people with your child,” Dominique says. “But Sandi shone with my daughter, and she thrived with her help.” Dominque also says the daycare staff went above and beyond with their care. They adjusted to Olivia’s changing health needs, coordinated with doctors, and even set up additional services when she needed more care. Olivia is now being evaluated for autism, and the team continues to walk alongside the family. Olivia has now graduated from Miss Sandi’s class and is now working with Miss Mackinzie. “The patience and love that she has for Olivia is outstanding,” Dominique shares. “They never let my children fall behind,” Dominique says. “But they always let them develop at their own pace.” Noah, once nearly silent, is now thriving. With encouragement and consistent support, his speech is developing at a great pace. “Miss Jovonna and Miss Jeannie have taught Noah
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The remodel features a new tiered shelter approach, along with an updated residential program wing that includes refreshed living spaces, restrooms and showers, plus a new classroom and gym. The adaptable building so much in the preschool classroom. I am beyond grateful for them! He has friends now and is just blossoming.”
design allows for evolving use and changing needs, while the new shopping experience in our pantry offers guests choice and dignity. We’re excited to begin offering tours this fall so you can see the transformation firsthand! To schedule a tour, please call us at (231) 727-6090.
Together, with your support, we’ve built more than a shelter — we’ve created a place where change truly happens. Thank you for making this possible!
Your Generosity Makes Thanksgiving Possible
Dominique calls Bright Futures her support system. “This is more than a daycare. The staff notices every detail, they really care. And I see that care being given to each child.”
At Muskegon Rescue Mission, Thanksgiving is more than a meal—it’s a chance to remind our neighbors that they’re not alone. As the holiday approaches, we’re preparing to distribute over 900 Thanksgiving baskets to local families in need.
She sees the difference in her children every day. Olivia now cares for her dolls the same way she’s been cared for—gently and lovingly. “My daughter wouldn’t be the happy girl she is if it weren’t for the staff here.”
Thankful for Your Blessings
Each basket is packed with the ingredients for a complete Thanksgiving meal that families can prepare and enjoy together in the comfort of their own homes.
With tears in her eyes, Dominique adds, “There’s a reason we are at Bright Futures. It was divine intervention. I can go to work knowing my children are safe, loved and learning. You can’t put a price on that. I am so grateful.”
Thank you for supporting Muskegon Rescue Mission and blessing families like Dominique’s with a place for children to thrive!
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Happy Thanksgiving!
CHANGE HAPPENS HERE:
You can help make this possible. We’re collecting food donations to fill each basket, and your support can make a lasting impact for families facing hardship.
Items needed:
✗ Frozen Turkeys ✗ Canned Corn & Green Beans ✗ Boxed Stuffing ✗ Boxed Mac & Cheese ✗ Boxed Potatoes ✗ Boxed Brownie or Cake Mix 6
Please drop off at our Community Resource Center. 15-MSKMI-0925-N
Grateful Hearts p. 3-4
Dominique’s Story p. 5
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