The Allentown Rescue Mission proudly announces the promotion of Francisco, a former guest, to Food Service Manager. Francisco’s two and a half year journey of healing and growth with the Allentown Rescue Mission prepared him for the next chapter of his life. In his new role, Francisco will be responsible for managing food donations and inventory, overseeing kitchen staff, and creating healthy, nutritionally balanced meals to serve the men living at the shelter.
Francisco arrived at the Allentown Rescue Mission in 2018 after his wife of twenty four years lost her battle with cancer. Unable to cope with the anger, pain, and loneliness of her death, Francisco began to self-medicate. Soon he lost everything, including his will to live. With nowhere to turn, he cried out for God to either take him or save him. The answer to his prayer came after asking three men on the street for a cigarette. The strangers not only gave him a cigarette, but offered him life-saving advice. They told Francisco to seek help and shelter at the Allentown Rescue Mission.
The path to happiness and salvation was not easy, but Francisco remained committed to changing his life. Through self-reflection, hard work, and guidance from the Allentown Rescue Mission, Francisco persevered. He graduated from the Allentown Rescue Mission’s Transformation Program and joined the Clean Team as a kitchen employee.
Management immediately recognized Francisco’s superior work ethic and interpersonal skills, and promoted him to Clean Team Foreman and most recently Food Service Manager. “While employed as the Clean Team Foreman, we received numerous compliments about Francisco’s professionalism, going the extra mile for customers, and promoting the mission of the Mission”, said his former boss, Mike Mauro, Clean Team and Facilities Manager.
“Francisco puts the needs of others above himself. A true example of a changed life dedicated to helping others”, Mauro continued. When asked what he would like to accomplish in his new role, Francisco responded, “Honestly, to do my best feeding the men healthy meals. It’s all about the men.”
Congratulations, Francisco. You are an inspiration to other men facing loss and homelessness. The Allentown Rescue Mission wishes the same level of healing and success to all the men it serves.
