"Since 1914 Bethesda Mission has been the missionary arm of the local church, reaching out to men,…read morewomen and children of all races, nationalities and creeds, providing the poor and homeless with shelter, food, clothing sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, and discipling them in the Christian life" This is basically a mens shelter that houses homeless and destitute people, one of only a handful in Harrisburg. This is a huge three or four story building that has a cross outside of it. located at 6th and Reily streets in mid-town, and long considered an eye-sore by almost anyone you ask, this place usually has homeless and troubled people hanging around it at all times of the day. They have free dinner and housing for people who ask. but they have to stay there all night and cannot leave and re-enter, you have to do chores and bible-study. I volunteered here when i was little and thought 'what could have possibly happened to these people?' many are the victims of drugs or alcohol, and many have to struggle daily with mental illness. it is constantly in need of clothing, medicine, food and basic supplies. It also has an area where they teach you job skills, how to write a resume and training for job-seekers.

If you are in need of a meal in the evenings, there is not a better place that I know of in…read moreHarrisburg. However, if you are in need of shelter, be aware that you will be scrutinized and if you are a trying to restart your life after serving time, will likely be rejudged. I cannot say this is true of ALL the workers there, just the ones that I have dealt with. They have truly forgotten what the Christ taught in his time "Matthew 7 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" So as far as donating food or clothing, yes, it will go to people who need it. As far as donating money, I would advise against it for their discriminatory housing policies.