(ALLENTOWN, PA) – The Allentown Rescue Mission is excited to announce its second Christmas in July holiday card contest. Starting today, the Mission is asking the public to vote on nine winter-themed paintings created by men in crisis who are residing at the Mission. The painting with the most votes will become the Mission’s 2025 Christmas card. The winning painter will be highlighted in the card and honored in a follow-up story.

All the works of art were created in the Mission’s Therapeutic Art class. The art class was established during the pandemic when COVID-19 safety guidelines severely restricted activities for guests staying at the Allentown Rescue Mission. The class provided a creative outlet for the men to positively express themselves, reduce stress and anxiety, build self-confidence, and develop a sense of belonging during the difficult days of isolation.

Nearly four years after its inception, guests of the Allentown Rescue Mission continue to look forward to the bi-monthly Therapeutic Art classes with great anticipation. Otilio C. observed, “It’s helpful for those who go through a lot. It helps to open the mind.” “It gave me peace. When I leave (the class), I feel

lighter,” Richard G. revealed.

Please help the Allentown Rescue Mission celebrate a new artist and choose its holiday card. Voting is free and open today through August 4, 2025. To cast your vote for your favorite painting, please visit https://www.allentownrescuemission.org/what-we-do/therapeutic-art-class/#artcontest

The Allentown Rescue Mission, a 501c3, 123 bed non-profit homeless shelter has been providing shelter to men experiencing homelessness since 1900. In addition to emergency shelter services (365 days a year), the Allentown Rescue Mission offers a residential life skills program, and transitional employment on the Clean Team Workforce that’s available for hire to the community. The Clean Team Workforce pays the men above PA state minimum wage– helping them save a nest egg to transition back into the community. In a typical year, the Allentown Rescue Mission provides shelter services for nearly 1,000 men and serves more than 60,000 meals to men in need.

To refer someone to the Allentown Rescue Mission for services or to learn ways you can help make a difference please visit www.allentownrescuemission.org

Information provided to TVL by:
Stefanie Appel