MUST Ministries 50th Anniversary & Heart of Gold Giving Gala

MUST Ministries 50th Anniversary & Heart of Gold Giving Gala

Ministries United Service and Training

The fundamental mission of MUST, or Ministries United Service and Training, is to provide a safety net for neighbors in need. Over the last few years, that safety net has grown larger to meet increased demand for essential services due to the lasting effects of the pandemic. With Hope House, TERA (Tenant-based Rental Assistance), and hoteling vouchers, MUST assists in sourcing shelter for 400 people each night. Before 2020, hoteling vouchers accounted for $5,000 in expenses each month and have now grown to $40,000. One of MUST's food programs, which offers a Summer lunch, expanded from nine counties to 60 counties, and food increased from one ton to 3.5 tons of food per day.

MUST Ministries' services extend beyond simply fulfilling a deficit. Case managers mentor each individual at MUST to assist in goal setting and financial planning. By offering long-term and manageable solutions, they invest in each person and bring them closer to breaking the cycle of homelessness.

A Servant’s Heart Approach

MUST's new facility, Hope House, expands sheltering capabilities from 72 beds to 136 permanent beds, plus an additional 36 flex spaces to help people during inclement weather or large families waiting to get into permanent supportive housing. The space comes equipped with a rooftop playground, dining hall, family rooms, and an after-school learning center, where students can read, study, do homework and work with tutors.

Dr. Ike Reighard says of IST's collaboration, "When you have a business that gives you their heart, they also give you their hands and head. It's a winning combination that IST always offers." Dr. Ike's leadership and guidance have been integral to IST's success and passion to serve.

Looking toward the next 50 years, Dr. Ike says, "Though our model changes all the time, the mission will never shift. We're here to serve our neighbors in need." Addressing two main issues facing individuals in Atlanta, affordability and accessibility, MUST will continuously optimize any service to reach the most people. Last year, they converted a bus into a mobile pantry that travels to neighborhoods, serving 400 families a month, and are working with school programs and Kennesaw State University to sponsor food programs for students. MUST Ministries' safety net provides the supportive infrastructure many rely on to envision their future.

Recently, MUST Ministries hosted the Golden Anniversary Giving Gala, celebrating 50 years of Miracles. The event garnered immense praise from Atlanta businesses and community members who have witnessed the power of their leadership. IST Management is proud to be a part of MUST Ministries' story. Their leadership and dedication to the community exemplify what a passion for service is all about.