Haven of Rest Radio Broadcast

The Haven of Rest Ministries' impact during the 2024-2025 fiscal year was characterized by a holistic, Christ-centered approach to homelessness that moved individuals from crisis to stability. Supported by a network of over 4,000 volunteers and numerous donors, the ministry provided over 130,000 meals and more than 50,000 nights of lodging across its men’s division and Harvest Home. Beyond meeting immediate physical needs like food and clothing for thousands in need, the organization emphasized the "poverty of relationships" by fostering personal connections and providing daily chapel services, which resulted in approximately 100 recorded salvations in evening services alone. By treating ministry as a "marathon" rather than a sprint, the Haven of Rest continues to offer long-term programs for addiction and mental health, serving as a "friend of the friendless" for those with no one else to call.

Luke, the coordinator for the men's day room at a shelter, discussed the unique ministry opportunities that arose during a particularly harsh Ohio winter. He explained that unlike many shelters that require guests to leave during the day, this facility allows them to stay, making the day room a "home" where guests can access basic necessities, meet with caseworkers, or simply find community in close quarters. This shared environment during the cold months fostered a sense of unity and provided numerous opportunities for both formal chapel services and one-on-one "conversational evangelism," which Luke noted often complement each other in building trust and sharing the gospel. Despite the challenges of managing a larger winter population, Luke emphasized the importance of being intentional and vigilant—noting small changes in a guest's behavior or appearance—to ensure no one "slips under the radar" and that every moment is used to support their physical and spiritual needs.

In this radio broadcast, Jennifer Hugg discusses her dual roles at Haven of Rest Ministries, where she has served as the executive administrative assistant for Reverend Kaiser for nearly 12 years. Hugg belongs to a multi-generational family dedicated to the ministry, with her mother, husband, daughter, and daughter-in-law all having worked at the mission over various decades. In addition to her administrative duties, Hugg recently became the vice president of the Women’s Auxiliary, an 82-year-old group that hosts monthly fundraising events featuring shopping, lunch, and Christian entertainment to support special mission projects. She emphasizes that the auxiliary serves not only as a vital financial support for the ministry but also as a welcoming community where attendees can build relationships and share prayer requests.

Blaire shares his testimony about finding transformation at the Haven of Rest after struggling for 20 to 30 years with addictions to alcohol and pornography. Although he was raised in a Christian home and had been in and out of the Haven’s homeless shelter for two decades, Blaire rededicated his life to Christ in June 2025 and joined the mission's long-term program. He emphasizes that while he previously completed traditional treatment centers without long-term success, the combination of biblical study, work therapy in the kitchen, and a highly structured routine has finally allowed him to overcome his "demons". Now in the final phase of career development after nine months in the program, Blaire hopes to use his experiences to help others suffering from addiction and homelessness.

In this radio broadcast, a resident named Lawrence shares his journey of joining the Long Term Conqueror program at Haven of Rest Ministries in Akron after being referred by a librarian in Twinsburg. Unlike many participants, Lawrence explains that he was brought to the program not by substance abuse, but by the fallout of sinful life choices and an adulterous relationship that led to a nervous breakdown and the loss of his housing. Since entering the program in August, Lawrence has undergone a significant transformation, moving from initial anger and resistance toward staff to a state of gratitude and spiritual growth through counseling and personal devotion. He now maintains a disciplined daily routine in the kitchen and actively participates in Bible application classes. Looking toward the future, Lawrence hopes for continued restoration with his family—specifically his 12-year-old daughter—and seeks prayer for his spiritual maturity as he aspires to eventually intern or volunteer at the ministry to help others.

Jeff Hyatt, the facilities manager at Haven of Rest, describes the extensive efforts his team undertook to manage a severe blizzard that brought approximately 11 inches of snow to the region. To ensure the facility remained accessible and safe, the team prepared in advance by tracking the storm, securing salt reserves, and maintaining equipment such as tractors and snow blowers. During the storm, staff and even some guests worked long hours in freezing conditions to clear pathways, prioritizing access for individuals with mobility challenges so they could safely reach the dining room and shelter. Ultimately, the broadcast emphasizes that these behind-the-scenes facility operations are vital to the ministry's mission, as they "clear the way" for guests to receive warm meals, clothing, and the gospel during dangerous weather events.

Jonell Muth, the kitchen manager at Haven of Rest, details the mission’s critical response to a severe Ohio winter storm by providing warm, hearty meals to those in need. With the help of dedicated volunteers, the kitchen prepares roughly 150 meals for breakfast and lunch and over 250 for dinner, often scaling up to 300 during peak blizzard conditions to ensure no guest is turned away hungry. Jonell guides her team to treat every guest like family, eschewing cold sandwiches for nutrient-dense options like soups and stews made with massive quantities of ingredients, such as 100 pounds of chicken and 80 pounds of tortellini. Beyond the kitchen, the mission operated as an "all hands on deck" environment where staff and guests worked together to clear snow and maintain a life-saving warm shelter. To continue this 365-day ministry, the mission is currently requesting donations of canned goods, coffee, and desserts, and invites new volunteers to reach out to their coordinator, Christina at 330-535-1563.

Derek, a staff member at Haven of Rest, discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by extreme winter weather. As temperatures dip into the negatives, the mission’s emergency shelter numbers have surged, with approximately 145 to 150 men seeking refuge in a day room designed for fewer people. Despite the daunting task of managing increased laundry, cleaning, and meal services, the staff views the cold as a "lifeboat" that drives people toward God’s resources. Derek highlights a recent spike in individuals entering rehab and participating in voluntary Bible studies, noting that meeting tangible needs like food and warm socks often serves as a seed for spiritual transformation. The broadcast concludes with a call for prayer for more laborers, staff, and volunteers to support this critical front-line ministry.

The Church Ambassador program at Haven of Rest, overseen by retired pastor Ron Regalis, serves as a vital bridge between the mission and approximately 220 local churches and organizations. This partnership involves a mutual exchange of support: churches provide financial contributions, volunteers, and essential items like clothing, while Haven of Rest offers specialized resources to help churches assist marginalized individuals, such as those with mental illness or immediate housing needs. Regalis emphasizes the importance of personal tours, which often surprise pastors by revealing the full breadth of the ministry’s services, including women’s programs and chapel services. Beyond logistical support, the program fosters a deep spiritual connection through daily prayer for partner congregations, specifically seeking strength for pastors who may be facing discouragement or declining attendance.

A man named Adam shares his journey of overcoming a severe drug addiction through the Conquerors program at Haven of Rest Ministries. After losing his job and home to his addiction, Adam reached out for divine help and was guided by his family to the ministry, where he embraced a structured life of work therapy, discipleship classes, and counseling. Though he initially struggled to adapt his independent nature to the program's rules, he experienced a spiritual transformation, shifting his focus from self-gratification to serving God and supporting others in the community. This growth has also fostered a restored relationship with his son, with whom he now shares scriptures and a mutual commitment to service. Today, Adam maintains a disciplined daily routine that starts before dawn, dedicated to maintaining the shelter and continuing his path toward long-term recovery.

In this 2025 year-in-review broadcast, Haven of Rest Ministries highlights a year defined by significant infrastructure improvements and a deepened focus on Christ-centered outreach. Key physical projects included a major bathroom and shower renovation at the client service center to enhance guest dignity, as well as a complete roof restoration and the replacement of several HVAC units to maintain a safe, comfortable environment. At Harvest Home, updates to furniture and flooring were completed, while the Women’s Auxiliary continues to raise funds for upcoming shower renovations. The ministry also bolstered its security and technology through an ongoing IT overhaul and the installation of exterior cameras to ensure a safe atmosphere for the 210 to 230 guests who stay there nightly. Beyond these physical updates, the year saw a successful transition to a "shopping" model for Christmas assistance to affirm parental dignity and a record number of salvation responses following a renewed emphasis on intentional discipleship during Chapel services.

Jeff Hyatt, the Director of the Facilities Department at Haven of Rest Ministries, leads a versatile team of seven to eight individuals responsible for the upkeep and safety of three separate buildings. By providing a clean and stable environment, the department seeks to offer guests a consistent routine that helps them feel safe enough to experience the ministry's services and hear the gospel. Currently, the department has full-time and part-time job openings for individuals with a ministry heart and basic trade skills, and Jeff requests prayer for the team’s energy, health, and spiritual endurance as they serve behind the scenes.

Kathleen Turner, director of Harvest Home, describes a season filled with high occupancy and community generosity, noting that the facility is currently at maximum capacity for single residents while also preparing to welcome more families. The holiday season is marked by diverse activities, including a "North Pole adventure" trip, Christmas parties scheduled for December 18th, and visits from local first graders. Various community groups have contributed significant donations, such as 30 gift bags from the Cleveland Kindness Connection, 91 pounds of slippers and toys from the Righteous Riders motorcycle ministry, and over 100 pounds of pajamas from Women for Oppressed Women (WOW). Beyond these festivities, the mission remains focused on spiritual growth and practical improvements, such as installing new showers and laminate flooring, while staff like Emily and Joy work to provide a stable, loving environment for children. Ultimately, the program seeks to replace difficult past experiences with positive holiday memories and the hope of Jesus Christ, aiming to "change lives and restore futures" even after residents transition to their own homes.

December 14 2025 - Resident Christmas

December 7 2025 - Jesse Schlabach

The broadcast features David John from Haven of Rest's development team discussing several upcoming holiday events following Thanksgiving. The first major event is the "Happy Birthday Jesus" party for children, scheduled for Saturday, December 6th. This event, which begins with doors opening at 1:30 PM and a program at 2:00 PM, involves extensive volunteer efforts, decorating, music, and a lively, Christ-centered program featuring a clear gospel message. The day concludes with children receiving gifts, cake, and candy. Following this, Haven of Rest hosts a Christmas giveaway for families, where registered families can "shop" for age-appropriate gifts and receive prayer from staff, as well as an "Adopt A Family" program where individuals, businesses, and churches provide gifts based on a family's wish list. The success of all these special events, which aim to connect with and bless families, is credited to the generous support of donors and the indispensable help of volunteers. David John requested prayer for wisdom and strength as he manages the numerous interactions with staff, volunteers, and the families they serve.

The Haven of Rest Ministries is preparing for a very full house for their special Thanksgiving Day celebrations, which include two main services and meals open not only to their guests but also to the wider community, past guests, and alumni. The day's events begin in the morning with guests gathering around 10:45 AM for music, followed by a service at 11:30 AM, and then a traditional Thanksgiving lunch at 12:00 PM, featuring mashed potatoes, turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and more. A significant "army of volunteers" and kitchen staff ensure the meal is a special, served experience, much like a restaurant, complete with post-meal gift bags with personal care items, while the evening includes a second chapel service around 6:00 PM, often with guest speaker Terry Pluto, followed by another dinner. The focus of the day is on being a family, sharing hope, meeting practical needs, and pointing guests to Christ, particularly recognizing that holidays can be difficult for those experiencing homelessness or loss, and the event is made possible by the prayers, financial support, and donations (like turkeys) from their prayer partners and supporters.

During the broadcast, Katrina Henry from the Haven of Rest development department details the "Every Child, Every Chance" program, a preventative ministry that partners with counselors at Akron Public Schools to support students and families before they require shelter services. Working primarily with seven schools, the initiative addresses barriers to education by providing immediate necessities such as shoes, winter coats, clothing, and hygiene products, often delivering them discreetly to maintain the dignity of the recipients. As the winter season approaches, the program is focused on distributing full Thanksgiving meal baskets to ten families per school and providing Christmas assistance—comprising both gifts and essential clothing items like underwear and socks—to five families per school. Henry concludes by highlighting the importance of community support through prayer and a business match financial campaign to sustain these year-round efforts.

Jesse Schlabach, the director of the Men's Division at Haven of Rest, discussed the impact of colder weather in November on the people they serve, noting that the seasonal change drives more unhoused individuals to seek shelter and services, despite a general increase in numbers compared to the previous year. When guests arrive, the 24/7 staff conducts a brief intake, assesses their immediate needs like clothing or shelter, and begins the process of moving them from crisis and chaos toward stability and control. Beyond meeting basic needs, the long-term goal is transformation through Christ, which involves addressing life-controlling issues like mental health, addiction, or unemployment through case management, as well as providing spiritual guidance through chapel services and Bible studies. The staff works to help guests overcome resistance to structure by listening to their individual stories, building relationships, and giving encouragement and direction to help them become thriving members of the community, ultimately focusing on helping them obtain housing and work. Jesse asked for prayers for his staff to have the strength, wisdom, and discernment needed to deal with a wide range of situations as the numbers increase.

Eric Swatson, the new development assistant with a focus on social media at Haven of Rest, shared his journey to the mission and his faith. Growing up in Akron, he was aware of Haven of Rest but didn't fully understand their work until a friend, Landon, introduced him. A spontaneous conversation with Doctor Yvonne Brake led Eric to pursue a role in the development office, focusing on sharing the overarching perspective of Haven of Rest as a rescue mission rather than just a homeless shelter. Eric's social media strategy, currently in the strategizing phase, involves weekly themed content rotation. Eric accepted Christ in after a difficult period that included graduating high school, losing his Air Force eligibility, a breakup, and his father's death. What excites him most about Haven of Rest is its counter-cultural nature of selflessness, grace, and compassion and the opportunity to share the gospel with the disenfranchised and displaced. He asks listeners to pray that he can continue to honor the Lord, especially for the fruits of the Spirit.