WHY WE CARE
Homelessness is often thought of as a hopeless problem with no solution. However, each day our gifted staff and volunteers open The BCC, we see signs of hope - both as we help meet tangible daily needs, and as we build relationships and connections to resources that can encourage people to take steps toward long-term solutions and growth. Sometimes hope is a haircut, other times its an internship, or a hug - we who are part of the story of The BCC get to witness this transformation firsthand, and its a gift.
A commitment to the community that the BCC serves has been part of the ministry at Quest Church since we began, rooted in our deep belief that faith is lived out in context, with our neighbors, and focuses on tangible care and advocacy with the most vulnerable. We first did ministry with the unhoused community out of Q Cafe in Interbay, then as a moveable resource program called "Into the Streets" under the bridges in Ballard, and then starting in 2011 as a day drop-in center off of 15th ave; in 2016, we moved a few blocks over to our current location on St. Luke Episcopal Church's Campus near Ballard Commons Park. Throughout this history, we have met amazing women and men who stories shape how we do ministry today. We are also grateful that we've grown our relationships to partner with dozens of community organizations and churches, individuals and businesses, who all continue to be committed to bringing hope and re-write the story of what homelessness, being unhoused, or struggling means in Seattle. We honor the former staff whose vision and commitment was instrumental to establishing this ministry - Pastor Eugene Cho, Pastor Deanza Spaulding, and BCC Director Jill Vance - as well as the ongoing commitment and significant financial gifts from Quest Church's leadership team and congregation that made this ministry possible. We still exist today to be able to provide a bridge between our neighbors and service providers, non-profits, businesses, government, and faith communities who all believe that together we can be part of the hopeful solution for the men and women we meet and care about each day. Join us to be part of a dynamic, tangible, and healthy ministry that is making a real difference in our neighborhood. With hope & deep thanks - Pastor Liz Mosbo VerHage Assoc.Pastor of Global and Local Ministries Quest Church, Seattle, WA |
OUR VISION
We envision all of our neighbors in the Ballard area flourishing, finding community, and having resources to meet their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs. OUR MISSION The BCC is a bridge to resources, relationships, and hope for women and men experiencing lack of housing and economic hardship in the Ballard area of Seattle. OUR VALUES + We believe all people are beloved by God. + We welcome people of all abilities, cultural identities, faith traditions, genders, sexual orientations, and economic status. + We respect each person's inherent dignity & agency. + We honor the confidentiality & sanctity of each person's story. + Our staff commits to ensuring a safe and healthy space for this community while upholding these values. |