Evansville, IN – [11/3/25] – In light of the federal government shutdown and the resulting pause in SNAP benefits—compounded by rising food insecurity across the region—Evansville Rescue Mission (ERM) is stepping up its response and invites the media to a joint press conference with Tracy Gorman, President/CEO and Mayor Stephanie Terry on Monday at 2 p.m. at ERM’s Men’s Residence Center campus [500 E. Walnut Street].
With thousands of our neighbors expected to face reduced resources in the weeks ahead, ERM has already made preparations to serve significantly more meals during this time of need. In October 2025, the Mission served more than double the number of individuals compared to October 2024, and demand continues to rise.
“Always here for you”
helps us strengthen that commitment. — that’s our promise to the community, and every dollar donated directly This year’s Gobbler Gathering—ERM’s annual Thanksgiving food distribution—has seen a record-breaking response. Registration for food boxes filled all 2,300 available spots in record time, and calls for assistance are still pouring in daily. In response, ERM is expanding again to serve 2,500 families, marking a 300-family increase from last year’s 2,200-box distribution. Each box provides a full Thanksgiving meal to a local household, ensuring that no one goes without during the holiday season.
How You Can Help:
Make a financial gift via check, cash, or securely online at evansvillerescuemission.org.
Your donations stretch even further thanks to ERM’s strong supplier partnerships and bulk-purchasing power.
Share our mission with others and help ensure that every family in our community has a place at the table this Thanksgiving.
Mayor Terry and ERM leadership will discuss ongoing efforts to address hunger and how local agencies, donors, and volunteers are working together to meet the growing need.
About Evansville Rescue Mission
Founded in 1917, Evansville Rescue Mission exists to glorify God by meeting the basic needs of those in our community while offering hope through life-transforming programs and services. From shelter and meals to recovery and family support, ERM serves men, women, and children across the Tri-State region.
