COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — The Springs Rescue Mission hosted its annual Christmas Banquet on Tuesday, providing hundreds of people with a free holiday meal and clothing at its Downtown Colorado Springs location.
The event, held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the homeless resource campus on West Las Vegas Street, served people experiencing homelessness, poverty and addiction.
After the meal, attendees could take clothing items at no cost.
"So, it truly is special to be a part of something that is making a difference in this world and bringing light and hope to what can often feel like darker dark times," said Travis Williams, President and CEO of Springs Rescue Mission.
The Springs Rescue Mission expects to serve 600 to 700 meals during this year's Christmas celebration. The organization will continue serving the community on Christmas Eve, starting with breakfast at 7 a.m., followed by lunch and dinner.
Williams said the holidays can be particularly challenging for people experiencing homelessness.
"Our goal is to make sure no one feels forgotten or alone at Christmas," said Williams. "We want every guest to experience warmth, care, and dignity, and to know there is hope and a pathway forward."
Shelter guests will also receive care packages on Christmas Day, which include everyday essentials, cold-weather items and handwritten notes of encouragement prepared by donors and volunteers.
The Christmas Banquet is designed to offer a dignified and welcoming holiday experience while also introducing first-time guests to the organization's year-round programs and services that help individuals do the following:
- regain stability
- pursue recovery
- find employment
- secure permanent housing
For more information about the Springs Rescue Mission and how you can get involved, click here.
___
These new laws go into effect in Colorado on January 1st
Colorado will start 2026 with numerous new laws in place. From child care center fees to gun show requirements, here are six laws that take effect January 1st.
___
This story was reported on-air by a journalist, and parts have been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.
