Statement of Purpose

The Union Mission of Latrobe, Inc., is a Judeo-Christian based, non-profit mission, providing temporary shelter and needed services to homeless men in Westmoreland County and surrounding counties, while assisting them in their move toward self-sufficiency.

History

The Union Mission of Latrobe was founded in 1985 by a single individual who, in conjunction with the Latrobe Ministerium, saw the need for a short-term, residential facility for disadvantaged men, ages 18 and older.  The Mission would provide housing and support for men who were experiencing economic and/or personal crises in their lives.

Administration

The Union Mission of Latrobe, Inc., is administered by a twenty-one member board of directors, consisting of men and women with varied business and professional backgrounds, a full-time Resident Manager, and part-time support staff.   Their strong dedication and commitment make the ministry of the Mission a vital outreach to the homeless men in Westmoreland and surrounding counties.

Who Are the Residents of the Union Mission?

The men who arrive at the Mission are looking for temporary shelter and support.  They are referred through a variety of local agencies, such as the Red Cross, Salvation Army, local hospitals, police departments, probation and parole officers, and other county programs.  Some men come on the recommendation of a friend.   The Mission provides them with a maximum stay of sixty days.  The Union Mission offers these benefits and services without regard to race, color, handicap, religion, or national origin.

Program Objectives

The Union Mission provides for the overall treatment needs of each resident through a structured, daily program which focuses on four distinct areas:   employment, education, behavior mofication, and counseling.

Applicants to the Mission program go through an extensive initial interview and intake process.  Each person's specific needs are determined and personal goals are established with the Resident Manager's assistance.  A timetable for completion of these goals is negotiated between the client and the Resident Manager.   Periodic reviews are held with the client to evaluate his progress.  Goals may be re-evaluated and changed as appropriate during these reviews.

Professional counseling is available to all residents.  Any resident who has a history of drug and/or alcohol addiction is required to become involved in area Narcotics Anonymous and/or Alcoholics Anonymous programs.

Spiritual Growth

"Then they were glad because they had quiet, and He brought them to their desired haven.  Let them thank the Lord for His steadfast love, for His wonderful works to the sons of men!"  Psalm 107:30-31

The Union Mission provides each resident with a variety of experiences and guidance to assist them with their spiritual growth.  Information about local church worship services and activities is made available to the residents.   Each Tuesday evening, a Bible study and discussion led by students and priests from the local Catholic seminary or other community clergy persons is held on the premises.

How Do I Make a Referral?

The majority of the referrals we receive come from a variety of sources:  community agencies, such as the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and others; hospitals; churches; and local police departments.  We are involved with the Westmoreland County Prison's "home plan program," which allows us to receive one parolee at a time for a sixty-day period.

The Union Mission also considers referrals through phone calls from private individuals and families.  If you are aware of someone that may be in need of the Mission's ministry and services, we would encourage you to call the Mission and speak with the Resident Manager.

Please be aware when referring an individual that there are certain conditions which may make them ineligible for placement, such as certain prior criminal behavior or if they possess serious specific needs that would be better served through professional agency support and intervention.

To make a referral, please call the Resident Manager at (724) 539-3550.