THE HELPING HAND AND MEDICAL MISSION.
By S. N. Curtiss
SINCE our last report, a large number of encouraging letters have been received from various parts of the United States, and all indicate a hearty interest in the work for the poor, the needy, and the fallen, which has been undertaken in San Francisco. One letter says simply, “I inclose a draft for $75 for you to use in the rescue work.” We are pleased to announce that the rescue work has begun, and is going on in a manner which touches the heart of every one who has to do with it. The first service was held in the mission on Sunday evening, February 27. There was a good attendance and excellent attention, and at the close four men came forward for prayers. On Monday evening two came forward, and on Tuesday evening four came forward, and a most solemn impression was made on all present, as the Spirit of the Lord moved upon these men and impelled them to confess their sins and seek for mercy. One poor fellow, partially intoxicated, cried out again and again, “Can God save a poor drunkard?” He felt that he must have help, and seemed to realize that it must come from God alone. The attendance is increasing each evening, and, altho but little attempt has been made thus far to advertise the mission, the good news is being circulated, and much interest is being aroused. The restaurant is greatly appreciated, and all are surprised to be able to get such good, wholesome food at one cent per dish, and they say, “O, if this can only be kept up, what a blessing it will be to us poor men!” The poor fellows also enjoy the good, clean beds, free from vermin, and are glad to take the requisite visit to the bath-room before going to bed. On the second night some 15 or more beds were occupied, and at present the prospect is that our beds will all be full very soon. We still need sheets for the beds, as when we are running to our full capacity we will require about 800 sheets. These should be made from 54-inch sheeting, 2½ yards long. A good quality of unbleached sheeting will answer. We also need potatoes and beans. These are both high in price now in the San Francisco market, and if the friends of the mission can help in this direction, it will be greatly appreciated just now. We will also need a large quantity of cloth for bandages. Old sheets and pillow-cases are just the thing for this, and we shall be glad to receive a good quantity of clean, old sheets. A bundle could be made up in almost any place if some one will interest their neighbors and friends in the matter. The following is the report of cash received up to March 1:—
Reported last week . . . . . . . . . . $1,198 60
Cash received this week . . . . . . . . 120 95
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,319 55 S. N. CURTISS,
Secretary and Treasurer