Homeless Ministry

“Bethel Homeless Ministry reflects Christ’s love by providing food, clothing, and spiritual care to those experiencing homelessness, enhancing dignity and providing hope.”

Our program revolves around one simple principle: respect. We take the time to develop close relationships with our homeless neighbors so that we are better able to support and encourage them.

Bethel’s Homeless Ministry is overseen by Bethel’s Homeless Ministry Board and Bethel Lutheran Church.

What We Offer

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 8:30 am – 1:30 pm
Pentecost Room (follow signage and ramp)

Food

Hot coffee is served daily, along with a light breakfast. Lunch is served at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Clothing

Bethel has a Clothing Closet that operates during our scheduled hours of operation.

Spiritual Care

The Spiritual Support Group meets each Tuesday at 10:30am in the Pentecost room. A large group gathers to share their stories in a unique support system and time of fellowship. The group closes their time with a prayer for all and then everyone enjoys lunch together. On the first Tuesday of the month, we celebrate the month’s birthdays with cake!

How it All Began

It all started with Eric. On a bitter, winter night in 2009, Eric Manley, one of Madison’s homeless, laid down on the steps of Bethel Lutheran Church and died. Following Eric’s tragic death, close friend, Mark Wilson, and Bethel staff member, Pastor Laura Sutherland, came together to provide a funeral for Eric and to make a positive change in Madison’s homeless community.

Get Involved

Volunteer with Homeless Support Services

Tuesdays & Thursdays | 8:30 am – 1:30 pm

All are welcome to volunteer with us! Whether you’re retired, looking to give back to your community, experiencing homelessness, wanting to keep busy, need community service hours, whatever your reason…this is a great opportunity for all! Choose from one (or more) of the following Volunteer Roles:

Receptionist

Sit at the desk and welcome patrons as they enter
Refer individuals to reference materials (pamphlets/handouts)
Share announcements or special events
Acknowledge new faces and direct them to program coordinators

Clothing Room Attendant

Sort and organize clothing and hygiene donations
Requires organization skills and attention to detail

Kitchen Assistant

Help prepare lunch
Beverage preparation
Dishes

Custodian

Maintain a clean atmosphere during the day
Afternoon clean-up (around 2-4pm)
Sweep, mop, clean tables
Requires ability to self-manage and prioritize tasks

Shelter Advocate

Socialize with program participants
Provide companionship and build relationships
Requires a positive attitude and good communication skills, as well as adherence to BHSS’s basic principles (outlined in Volunteer Orientation Guide)

If you have any special interests or talents to share with us or have any other volunteering ideas, absolutely let us know. We are always open to suggestions!

Contact Bev Thom bjthom@me.com for more information on being a volunteer!

Be Informed

National Coalition for the Homeless – General information regarding homelessness in the US.

City of Madison Homeless – Data and reports about homelessness in Madison and Dane County.

How to Be an Ally for LGBTQ+ Experiencing Homelessness

College Help for Students Experiencing Homelessness