Homeless and Advocate Stories
Advocate Stories
Rodney & Cindy LaFrance: Accosted by God
“Jesus worked with the poor and the underdogs, and He told us to do the same.”
Watch the compelling story of how Rodney + Cindy Lafrance have dedicated their lives to befriending and building community with the poor and addicted both in Costa Rica and in Redding, California. We are so privileged to work alongside them!
Our Lead Advocates: Dr. David Thompson
For over forty years, Thompson was a missionary surgeon in the remote coastal forests of Gabon, Africa, and in Egypt. Death, disease, and extreme poverty have been no stranger to him, nor have miraculous healings and abundant provision as he has witnessed medicine collide with the supernatural.
After he and his wife retired and moved to Redding, Thompson observed the sick and needy in his own backyard and sought out how to lend his skills. He has been involved with Shasta Thrive for over two years and spends his time building friendships and practicing “backpack medicine.” Read his incredible story!
A Friend to the Homeless: Alfred Celador
“One day, I was driving around and speaking to the Lord, and I said, ‘God, I need You to find me something to serve You.’ And He led me to the Good News Rescue Mission.”
Celador said yes to the call of God into the camps, and through his "yes", lives were changed.
Homeless → Wholeness
After 7 years of homelessness in Redding, Michael has shown all of us that there is always hope. He is now living with a roof over his head and fighting for the same story for so many who still suffer outdoors. We sit down with Michael as he shares his story.
The Camping Custodian: Allen
Allen Cason faced the loss of his four children, addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. Cleaning the camps gave Allen a sense of hope and purpose in the midst of all other brokenness. Allen's story moves us past judgement and into compassion as we hear the heartbreak and humanity these friends have faced. Watch his story of hope below.
From Addict to Advocate: Ardis
Ardis Greene is a walking, smiling testimony of the power of the simple act of love. One simple act can change the course of someone’s life. In this case, it was a cup of coffee and a breakfast burrito. When Paul, Michael and friends showed up offering breakfast two years ago, Ardis said, "for the first time in my life, I felt like someone cared about me and that was the start of bringing hope back into my life."
Nikko Arellano
"A significant take away for me was being able to hear so many stories from people and also how they're planning and moving forward with their lives. I liked being able to connect with people and do something practical to help this community."