Topeka Rescue Mission could close doors over money issues

The Topeka Rescue Mission could close its doors next month if it cannot find new funding.

In a news release issued Monday morning, TRM says it is facing a $180,000 shortfall each month. If it cannot secure new financial support, TRM will shutter its shelters and end all services by Sept. 15.

TRM leaders slated a Tuesday morning news conference to talk about the situation in further detail. They say they've already made adjustments to conserve resources. Last week, they announced the TRM Thrift Store would close soon. TRM executive director Barry Feaker told 13 NEWS the decision was part of an effort to focus resources on their core mission of supporting people who are homeless.

In the news release, TRM asks for individuals, families, churches, and organizations to consider donating.

"This support will ensure they continue to restore hope and well-being to those experiencing homelessness and hunger," the news release states.

The mission provides shelter for an average 250 people each night. They also provide hundreds of daily meals. According to their web site, TRM sheltered 2,021 unduplicated individuals in 2018, including 1,101 men, 625 women, and 295 children. In all, it totaled 95,303 nights of shelter.

TRM has a 65-year history in the Capital City, starting in 1953 as a small room providing shelter and food to homeless men, and expanding over the years to meet the Topeka area's growing needs. The main shelter's current location on North Kansas Ave. opened in 1991. In 2000, the Hope Center was created as a facility to house women and families. Their most recent addition, The Children's Palace, opened in 2017 as a place to provide education, care, and programs for children.

Those who would like to donate to the mission may text TRMgive to 77977. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 8350, Topeka, KS, 66608. To give online, click the "DONATE NOW!" button on the home page of

.