Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Eric Weber of the Union Gospel Mission about the real needs for families in Sioux Falls.

From their website

History Since 1826

The City Mission Movement goes back to the year 1826, when David Nasmith, a former manufacturer’s apprentice, founded the Glasgow, (Scotland) City Mission for the purpose of practical ministry for the underprivileged, proclaiming the Gospel in everyday language. David Nasmith is the spiritual father of the City Mission Movement and founded a number of ministries including the Dublin Christian Mission, London City Mission, as well as 31 other Missions in the United States and Canada.

The first USA, Gospel Rescue Mission opened on Water Street in 1872 in New York City when former alcoholic and ex-con Jeremiah McAuley founded his “Helping Hand for Man” on the site of a licentious dance hall. It was backed by stock trader Alfrederich Smith Hatch, who believed in uplifting those unfit for charity, whom he called the “undeserving or unworthy poor.”

Thomas F. Morse was convicted in Roberts County, SD for the shooting death of a Sisseton man in September of 1893. Morse made a decision in prison to give his heart and life to Jesus Christ, through the ministry of Mother Wheaton, a woman who visited the prison and proclaimed the Gospel. He was granted a full pardon by Governor Andrew Lee in 1898. On March 17, 1900 he became the founder of the Sioux Falls City Rescue Mission.

The Mission provides safe, comfortable lodging and showers for individuals who find themselves without shelter and needing a place to rest and get out of the elements. These guests might be transients passing through the area, some are people struggling as they work to get back on their feet and a few others are individuals that choose to join our discipleship program and become accountable in several areas of their life.

Our Men’s Facility provides space for 80 men and our Women & Children’s Facility can accommodate 48 women & children.

Meal Service

Union Gospel Mission serves three nutritious meals every day, seven days a week from Monday through Sunday. In addition, we offer special dinners on Easter, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and on other unique occasions. These meals are free to the public and are served at the following times listed below.

Breakfast: 6:30AM – 7:30AM
Lunch: 11:30AM – 12:30 NOON
Dinner: 5:30PM – 6:30PM

We have seen an increase in the number of meals provided recently; in 2019 we served a total of 147,840 meals. Our staff is ready to serve! Come and spend time at the Mission where we continue to “Love God and Love People.”

*Due to Covid-19, we ask that only 4 guests are seated at a table during meal hours.

For all kitchen service questions, contact us at 605-334-6732 or office@ugmsiouxfalls.com.