He can take what is a mess and turn it into a message...
The New Normal. What does that look like? What does that even mean? Given what you and I have lived through over the last five months, that is an easy question for us to ponder and discuss. Google defines “the new normal” as “a previously unfamiliar or atypical situation that has become standard, usual, or expected.”
I find myself in conversations with friends and family wondering what the future holds. As a father, I think about what the future holds for my children and someday their children.
The New Normal. What does that look like? What does that even mean?
Given what you and I have lived through over the last five months, that is an easy question for us to ponder and discuss.
Though things of this world have changed and what we knew as unfamiliar are now all-too-familiar, I lean on God’s Word. So, be encouraged because Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Our Heavenly Father, the author of creation, assures me that He can takewhat has been turned upside down and turn it right-side up. He can take what is a mess and turn it into a message.
Recently, I was introduced to a man who was nicely dressed, had a clean shirt and jeans on, was clean-shaven, and had his hair combed. When I met him, I felt like I knew him but could not place where or how I knew him.
We shook hands, then he reached into his pocket and handed me an envelope. The envelope had some cash in it – a few hundred dollars. Hesaid, “You fed me, you clothed me, you shared the love of Jesus with me, and you genuinely cared for me. Now, here is my chance to give back andhelp you do the same for others."
I learned this man had, at one point, lived a very “normal” life. But then, his world was turned upside down, life got messy, and he was homeless, living on the streets for years. And yes, Fred Jordan Missions helped him get through that difficult season of life.
Eventually, he was able to get off the streets and get a job. He is now living a new life and wants to invest in other hopeless people, helping men and women get off these streets and live a “new life” themselves.
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It was your donations that helped us help him, and we are so grateful for that. Never forget that Fred Jordan Missions is here every day “Declaring and Demonstrating The Love of Jesus” with those in need - from Skid Row in Los Angeles to impoverished neighborhoods in the Coachella Valley andbeyond.
Please continue to give. We need your help more today than ever before. And do not lose heart or lose hope. Keep your trust in the hands of Jesus.
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan- President/Senior Pastor Chairman of the Board
Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan) - Chairman of the Board
But We Have Also Seen LOVE
These last several weeks, you and I have seen events take place that are unprecedented. We have lived through a pandemic, quarantine, curfews, protests, and riots. We have witnessed division displayed at every level. But we have also seen love and harmony, with men and women coming together and uniting, standing together, kneeling together, and praying together.
I want you to know that, since 1944, my dad, Fred Jordan, served on the streets of Los Angeles, ministering to the hurting and homeless, with my mom by his side.
I want you to know that I am praying for you, your family, your job and financial stability, your peace and security, and your future.
These last several weeks, you and I have seen events take place that are unprecedented. We have lived through a pandemic, quarantine, curfews, protests, and riots. We have witnessed division displayed at every level.
But we have also seen love and harmony, with men and women coming together and uniting, standing together, kneeling together, and praying together.
I want you to know that, since 1944, my dad, Fred Jordan, served on the streets of Los Angeles, ministering to the hurting and homeless, with my mom by his side. When he passed away, my mom carried on his work for over 30 years. And now, I am here, serving, caring, and sharing the only hope for today and tomorrow, which is the message of Jesus Christ.
For decades, these harsh, brutal streets have been home to so many men, women, and children of every race, color, and creed. They walk and sometimes crawl through our doors, and, when they do, we love-on each one of them. We hold their hands in times of need, feed them when they are hungry, and clothe them when they have nothing.
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Your most generous gift is needed more today than ever before because today’s needs are greater than ever. Thank you!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan- President/Senior Pastor Chairman of the Board
Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan) - Chairman of the Board
Hopeless, Helpless, Homeless
Today, these bruised and battered streets look different. Typically, that’s not something I would say - but today, they do. The city of Los Angeles is out in force. They have set up barricades, established perimeters, erected sun shades, and now, COVID-19 testing is happening right outside our dining room door.
Our amazing staff has been preparing meals and serving everyone who comes to our doors, but today, there is another skill-set we are utilizing more and more. That, my friend, is called “prayer.”
Although we can’t hug, handshake, or high-five in person, I feel your warmth and love by you supporting our friends here on the streets of Skid Row.
Today, these bruised and battered streets look different. Typically, that’s not something I would say - but today, they do. The city of Los Angeles is out in force. They have set up barricades, established perimeters, erected sun shades, and now, COVID-19 testing is happening right outside our dining room door.
Our amazing staff has been preparing meals and serving everyone who comes to our doors, but today, there is another skill-set we are utilizing more and more. That, my friend, is called “prayer.”
Every few minutes, we hear sirens. Ambulances and paramedic trucks pull up, sometimes administering aid on the spot, while other times, they take people away.
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I know this has been overwhelming for those on the streets, which is why we attached outdoor speakers to our building. Day and night, we play inspirational Christian music and broadcast the gospel message and Bible studies to encourage their hearts. We also pray over our beloved friends and city. But, this day, I want to also bring a word of encouragement to you from the Bible.
Typically, I read and study from the New King James Bible. But I do like how simple and straightforward this verse is in the Holman Christian Standard Bible.
Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
I hear the cries of those from the streets saying,
“What’s the reality of that, Joe? I’ve lost my job. I have no food; my heart is troubled; my pain is real. I’m hopeless, helpless, and homeless.”
I remind them that this is all they need to know: Believe it or not, our God has this all in control. We must put our trust in Him to give us peace in troubled times, and know there are people who have been sent here to help you. The people who support Fred Jordan Missions enable us to prepare and serve hot meals and distribute water, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials to ease the pain of today and look to God for tomorrow. He will never leave us nor forsake us, but will always be with us.
Faithful friend, it is your partnership that allows us to feed, hydrate, and clothe on days like this, and bring this message of hope to our friends on the street.
Your gift is needed and so appreciated. Please give as generously as possible, and remember this for yourself: Don’t Worry. Instead, Pray.
God Bless You,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - (Mrs. Fred Jordan) Chairman of the Board
We Feed Daily Until The Food Runs Out
I know this has been a challenging time for most people, and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with the unprecedented situation caused by Coronavirus.
Death, sicknesses, loss of jobs and steady incomes, financial hardships, food insecurities, and a lack of necessary supplies are things none of us anticipated. With fear and worry lurking around every corner, I am choosing to trust Jesus and stand on His Word.
I know this has been a challenging time for most people, and my heart goes out to everyone dealing with the unprecedented situation caused by Coronavirus.
Death, sicknesses, loss of jobs and steady incomes, financial hardships, food insecurities, and a lack of necessary supplies are things none of us anticipated. With fear and worry lurking around every corner, I am choosing to trust Jesus and stand on His Word.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Despite the many challenges we are facing with this quarantine, I’m thankful we still have roofs over our heads and safe, warm places to sleep at night.
The same cannot be said for those sleeping unprotected on the streets of Skid Row. They live at the intersection of crisis, where homelessness and disease meet.
The Mission doors are staying open to feed and care for those on thestreets while we remain in compliance with the standards of prevention and protection issued by the City of Los Angeles.
I need your help today!
For every $10 donation, we provide 5 healthy meals.
Our meal provisions have grown by 300%!
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We open the doors at 9:30 am serving breakfast – then by 1:00 pm, theline for lunch is around the building and up 5th Street. At 2:00 pm, weserve a hot meal, and most days, we serve meals until the food runs out. Then, we clean up and prepare for the next day.
Fred Jordan Missions, since 1944, has been one of the longest-serving hunger-relief organizations in Los Angeles. Our dedication of “Declaring and Demonstrating the Love of Jesus” does not waiver, but has remained steadfast in being the extended hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of COVID-19.
Please know this. Fred Jordan Missions is supported by you, our caring friends, not the government, county, or city support. Only you...
Please give today and help us provide meals to those who have nothing. Remember, $10 feeds 5 meals. If you can give more, please do so. Theneed is greater now, more than ever, in the history of Fred Jordan Missions. Please give as generously as possible.
May God’s hand of protection continually be upon you.
Serving Jesus together,
Joe Jordan Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan)
President/Senior Pastor Chairman of the Board
I never thought I’d be that guy...
As a kid growing up in Los Angeles with Fred and Willie Jordan as my parents, I have to tell you; it wasn’t easy! They were shining examples of God’s love in action, not just in the heart of Los Angeles but around the world. Their passion, dedication, and heart to serve the helpless and hopeless was beyond admirable. But, to be honest, I didn’t fully “get it.”
Yes, I understood Los Angeles was the homeless capital of the nation, but as a young person, it was also the premier city to have fun in and get caught up in other trouble outside the streets of Skid Row. More often than not, I
As a kid growing up in Los Angeles with Fred and Willie Jordan as my parents, I have to tell you; it wasn’t easy! They were shining examples of God’s love in action, not just in the heart of Los Angeles but around the world. Their passion, dedication, and heart to serve the helpless and hopeless was beyond admirable. But, to be honest, I didn’t fully “get it.”
Yes, I understood Los Angeles was the homeless capital of the nation, but as a young person, it was also the premier city to have fun in and get caught up in other trouble outside the streets of Skid Row. More often than not, I found myself seeking a lifestyle that didn’t follow the rules or godly character of my parents. I wanted to rebel instead, which included doing drugs and drinking alcohol, which was the path I chose to take. Believe me, sin is pleasurable – for a while – but that kind of “fun” ultimately leads to destruction in so many ways.
Even though I didn’t live on the streets of Skid Row, like the people my parents worked with and served, I was headed down a path of destruction that could very well lead me to those very streets or worse. But then one day, all of that changed.
At the end of my road, I cried out to Jesus for help,
and He met me at the center of my need.
Today, over 30 years later, nothing is more satisfying to me than serving Jesus by serving those in need. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than knowing I am part of a ministry that blesses men, women, and children with hot, nourishing meals daily, or wraps them up with warm blankets when they’re cold and shivering, or hugs a child who needs comfort and love. And above all, nothing beats sharing the love of Jesus with the lost so He can meet them right where they’re at and turn their lives around like He did mine.
Honestly, I never thought I’d be that guy, but I am. Will you join me in showing the lonely and rejected that there is HOPE, and His name is Jesus? There’s nothing more rewarding than to tell them Jesus cares and to show them we do as well.
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I challenge you to be “that guy” or “that woman” who will come alongside me to “Declare and Demonstrate the Love of Jesus” on these streets. Ineed your help because I can’t do it alone.
I know during these past few weeks, many on Skid Row and around the world have had hearts filled with fear, worry, anxiety, and hopelessness. That’s why in the days and months ahead, we are committed to staying open and being a beacon of God’s love and mercy to those on the streets by providing them with hot meals, snacks, beverages, clothing, blankets, and hygiene products on a daily basis. We will also continue sharing words of encouragement and hope to our world through our weekly TV Program, Social Media outlets, and free online resources and Bible studies available on our website.
Your financial partnership is needed now more than ever! So, I’m asking you to please consider giving generously today. And remember to pray for us. We will be praying for you and asking Jesus to protect and bless you as you reach out to bless “the least of these.”
Until next month, God bless you and yours!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan) - Chairman of the Board
Sometimes life - especially on the streets of Skid Row - doesn’t look like Love at all.
I recently sent you a letter about “What does LOVE look like.” I did so because I love talking about the love of God, the love of my wife and family, and the love of people like you who show compassion toward the less fortunate.
However, in the midst of “All the Love,” life happens. And sometimes life - especially on the streets of Skid Row - doesn’t look like Love at all
I recently sent an email about “What does LOVE look like.” I did so because I love talking about the love of God, the love of my wife and family, and the love of people like you who show compassion toward the less fortunate.
However, in the midst of “All the Love,” life happens. And sometimes life - especiallyon the streets of Skid Row - doesn’t look like Love at all.
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“Mary” lived in a tent outside our front doors for several months. On most days, she would rise early and greet our staff as they arrived at work. She was friendly and always cooperative when we needed her to move to clean the sidewalks. She was also very appreciative of the food, clothing, and supplies we gave her regularly.
One particular day, however, “Mary” hadn’t emerged from her tent. Its entrance was unzipped, and a few of our staff saw her lying down inside. They assumed she’d had a late night and was still asleep. But as the sidewalk cleaning got underway, it was evident that something was wrong. One staff member called her name loudly, but there was no response. Within minutes, other staff members, along with neighboring homeless residents, tried to wake her, but with no success. “Mary” was gone. She had passed away during the night from a drug overdose.
“Mary’s” sudden death was heartbreaking and tragic for all of us!
The only glimmer of hope I have in times like these is knowing that we fed, clothed, and shared the hope of the gospel with “Mary” on several occasions. She regularly heard about Jesus’ love for her and His amazing gift of grace available by faith. I can only hope she prayed to receive Jesus as her Lord and Savior on one of those occasions before she passed away.
Will you please pray and consider financially partnering with us as we continue reaching out to lost and hurting souls on Skid Row?Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan)
President/Senior Pastor Chairman of the Board
What does “Love” look like?
What does “Love” look like?
That question was recently posed to me. I didn’t answer it immediately but wanted to think about what that really meant to me...
It would have been easy and truthful for me to say, “Jesus,” because He is what “Love” looks like. After all, my favorite Scripture is John 3:16, which states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
What does “Love” look like?
That question was recently posed to me. I didn’t answer it immediately but wanted to think about what that really meant to me...
It would have been easy and truthful for me to say, “Jesus,” because He is what “Love” looks like. After all, my favorite Scripture is John 3:16, which states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
As a preacher, I could go further into the Scriptures and point out what it says in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 which is, “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”
By the way, these are great principles to live by.
But, when I begin to think about what “Love” really looks like, and then apply it to my daily life, work, passions, and what and who I am as a person, I had to answer that question by saying:
Love has ears - so it can hear the sighs and cries of brokenness...
Love has eyes - so it can see the hurt and pain of fallen humanity...
Love has feet - so it can go and minister to the poor and needy...
Love has hands - so it can help those who have nothing...
Therefore, “Love” extends itself wholeheartedly in order to reach out, pick up, and share hope - both spiritually and physically - to those in need.
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Will you help me show others what “Love” looks like in the month of February? Will you help me declare and demonstrate God’s love to the lost and hurting of our city?
Please know your gift today helps Fred Jordan Missions continue to clothe, feed, show, and share the message of God’s love to those who feel so unloved.
On behalf of those we humbly serve, thank you!
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan (Mrs. Fred Jordan) - Chairman of the Board
Real People with Real Stories
With being only a few days into the New Year and embarking on a new decade, it’s amazing for me to reflect on all Jesus did in 2019 through your faithful support of Fred Jordan Missions:
We fed and clothed thousands of men, women, and children who live in poverty every day
We hosted five Holiday Celebrations on the streets of Skid Row, including Easter, Mother’s Day, Back To School (where 3,000 children received new shoes, socks, toys, and backpacks)
Dear Friend,
With being only a few days into the New Year and embarking on a new decade, it’s amazing for me to reflect on all Jesus did in 2019 through your faithful support of Fred Jordan Missions:
We fed and clothed thousands of men, women, and children who live in poverty every day
We hosted five Holiday Celebrations on the streets of Skid Row, including Easter, Mother’s Day, Back To School (where 3,000 children received new shoes, socks, toys, and backpacks), Thanksgiving, and Christmas (where over 1,000 children received brand new toys and more than 600 moms and dads received holiday food bags, a new blanket, scarves, and the love of Jesus in abundance)
We celebrated our 75th Anniversary of serving Jesus on the streets of Skid Row
2019 was the first full year Kris and I led Fred Jordan Missions since my mom’s stroke in 2017 when she stepped down from the helm. After my dad died in 1988, she faithfully carried out his God-given vision of “Declaring and Demonstrating the Love of Jesus” to the lost on Skid Row, and we are continuing to do the same.
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With 2020 now upon us, we anticipate it being the greatest year ever to minister to the needs of homeless and impoverished souls, both on Skid Row and beyond. But looking back, we’ve seen the hand of Jesus move so powerfully in the lives of precious people, including Penny and the Nelson Family. Here are their stories:
Penny lived on the streets of Skid Row for four decades. Four decades! This past Spring, she came to one of our Chapel Services, and we prayed for Jesus to provide her with a place of her very own. One week later, He answered her prayer when she was approved for government-assisted housing. Penny still comes to our Chapel Services each week with a big heart, wanting to help others in need whenever possible. Recently, she took in a few teenagers who had nowhere to live and brought them to the Mission for a visit. Penny is such a living testimony of God’s care and compassion to those on the streets.
The Nelson Family just happened to be walking on the streets in front of the Mission one day while I was taping our weekly television program. After talking with them for a while, I found out they were the victims of a terrible hurricane in Alabama, which destroyed their home and all their possessions. They ended up in Los Angeles, hoping to find a job and a house but ended up on Skid Row. I talked to them about Jesus, put them up in a hotel for a few nights, gave their two little girls some early Christmas presents, and helped provide for their immediate needs. Shortly thereafter, they were approved for housing and obtained employment to provide for themselves once again.
These are real stories of real people living on the streets of Skid Row, whom your faithful support had helped encourage, impact, and transform when all hope was lost. We know there are many more Penny’s and Nelson Family’s waiting to receive God’s hope and provision in 2020, and with your help, we will be there to do our part.
Will you commit to stand with us financially this year and help make a difference in the lives of men, women, and children, both now and for eternity? Your support makes such a difference, and we can’t do it without you.
For all you do, thank you in advance. And may Jesus abundantly bless you and yours in this New Year and all throughout your days.
Serving Jesus together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
75 Years and Counting
It was an exciting day 75 years ago, on December 8, 1944, when Fred Jordan Missions opened its doors for the very first time. Today, that same fire, enthusiasm, and calling from God continues as my wife, Kris, and I carry the vision forward. Our mission and purpose are simple: To declare and demonstrate the love of Jesus to the lost by sharing the life-changing message of the gospel and helping meet the needs of hurting people in Los Angeles, the Coachella Valley, and wherever else the Lord may lead.
It was an exciting day 75 years ago, on December 8, 1944, when Fred Jordan Missions opened its doors for the very first time. Today, that same fire, enthusiasm, and calling from God continues as my wife, Kris, and I carry the vision forward. Our mission and purpose are simple: To declare and demonstrate the love of Jesus to the lost by sharing the life-changing message of the gospel and helping meet the needs of hurting people in Los Angeles, the Coachella Valley, and wherever else the Lord may lead.
Additionally, we will have two Outreach Training Centers, one in Los Angles at FJM, and the other in the Coachella Valley. Both Outreach Training Centers are designed to teach and equip church leaders and laypeople to reach the lost within their local communities. We often say, “I can do a good thing, and you can do a good thing, but together, we can do extraordinary things as Jesus works through us.”
With your partnership, we can continue reaching the lost and building the Kingdom of God. Will you stand with us today and give your most generous year-end gift to help us bring this exciting vision to pass? Will you invest in helping change the lives of men, women, and children through the HOPE of the gospel?
You can donate online instantly at www.fjm.org. Whatever you contribute, please know how grateful we are for your support.
Great vision requires great resources, but we know “Jesus is able” through your generous support.
In Jesus’ love,
Joe and Kris Jordan
The Joy of Christmas
“’Tis the Season to be Jolly!” That’s what the song says, right? But in reality, many other sentiments come to mind, especially when doing things like trying to find a parking space at the mall. Words like hectic, frustrated, and overwhelmed seem to be a bit more fitting, don’t you think?
“’Tis the Season to be Jolly!”
That’s what the song says, right? But in reality, many other sentiments come to mind, especially when doing things like trying to find a parking space at the mall. Words like hectic, frustrated, and overwhelmed seem to be a bit more fitting, don’t you think?
But when I think about the genuine reason for the season - Jesus and His glorious birth - there is an abundance of joy and hope that floods my heart because we have so much to be thankful for.
A few days ago, we hosted our annual Thanksgiving Feast on Skid Row after concluding a Thanksgiving “Hope Rig” Outreach in the Coachella Valley. It was such a blessing to greet, serve, and minister Jesus’ love to multitudes of homeless and impoverished men, women, children throughout both events. It is for this reason, and more that I am truly thankful for what God is doing through this ministry.
In a few weeks from now, we will be sitting with our families at Christmastime to eat, laugh, share memories, and exchange gifts with one another. But in only a few days from today, we will celebrate Christmas and our 75th Anniversary, with thousands of needy children and their families on the streets of Los Angeles.
With your generous support, there will be no shortage of toys, holiday food bags, blankets, or Christmas cheer to go around. There will be holiday music and singing. The good news of the gospel will be preached, so the Kingdom of Heaven can grow. Thousands of toys will be handed out, family blankets will be distributed, and multiple food bags, overflowing with all of the holiday fixings, will be given to moms and dads to take home for their Christmas table. It will be a fantastic day celebrating our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with all those He brings to “our table.”
Will you join with us to make Christmas 2019 a season to remember for those in need? Remember, poverty never takes a holiday. It lingers day after day, year after year, and continues to increase exponentially. But with your help, the JOY OF CHRISTMAS can be experienced by thousands of impoverished children and families. Will you stand with us?
Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Truer words were never spoken. Thank you for all you will do for children and families this December.
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Feeding The Body and Soul
Just the word “Thanksgiving” conjures up great images in my mind: waking up to the smell of turkey roasting in the oven; gathering around the crowded kitchen with the Master Chef, “Mom;” snapping green beans; coating layers of brown sugar and butter on the yams; preparing the stuffing amidst the organized chaos in the kitchen...then, after the meal was devoured...sitting around the television and watching football before taking it outside for a game of our own.
Dear Friend,
Just the word “Thanksgiving” conjures up great images in my mind: waking up to the smell of turkey roasting in the oven; gathering around the crowded kitchen with the Master Chef, “Mom;” snapping green beans; coating layers of brown sugar and butter on the yams; preparing the stuffing amidst the organized chaos in the kitchen...then, after the meal was devoured...sitting around the television and watching football before taking it outside for a game of our own.
Wait a minute! That wasn’t what life was like in the Jordan home on Thanksgiving! Yes, our crazy, beautiful “Thanksgiving Days” consisted of fantastic, warm-hearted Feasts, but they were not prepared in our home’s kitchen. They were prepared in the Mission’s kitchen downtown on Skid Row! It was there that we roasted hundreds of turkey legs, snapped green beans, coated brown sugar on yams, and mashed the potatoes to feed thousands of guests who gathered on the streets of Skid Row for these Celebrations!
For decades, the Jordan family has commemorated Thanksgiving Day by reaching out to those who have no home, no kitchen, and no family to gather around the kitchen table with to celebrate the holiday. “Home” for them instead is the cold, dark, and cruel streets of Skid Row. It’s a place where they sit on filthy sidewalks, lay in cardboard boxes, or reside in make-shift tents to escape the harsh reality of the streets. Skid Row is no place to call home!
But on this Thanksgiving Day, we will “set the table” and invite all those living on the streets to feast with us as our guests and extended family. We will sing of God’s goodness, preach the good news of the gospel, and encourage them with the hope of Jesus’ love and redemption. And when their stomachs are full of the traditional holiday fixings we prepare with love, we will send them off with food bags to take “home.”
Will you stand with us to help make this happen?
Together, we can make this year’s Thanksgiving Feast a memorable one for all our guests as we’ve done for the past 75 years! I am asking you to be as generous as possible with your giving so that homeless and impoverished men, women, and children can be blessed this holiday.
Let’s make a difference together!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
“What can we do, where do we turn, what is the solution?”
Our nation is hurting; our nation is suffering; America has been through a lot of horror in recent weeks with the unimaginable happening to our neighbors in Gilroy, California as well as in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio where innocent victims of all ages were the target of these senseless shootings.
People are quick to point fingers and they blame our President, Congress, and government leaders for these tragedies.
Our nation is hurting; our nation is suffering; America has been through a lot of horror in recent weeks with the unimaginable happening to our neighbors in Gilroy, California as well as in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio where innocent victims of all ages were the target of these senseless shootings.
People are quick to point fingers and they blame our President, Congress, and government leaders for these tragedies.
There is so much political division and social unrest that it’s easy to throw up our hands and say, “What can we do, where do we turn, what is the solution?”"
"Let me assure you, this is not a “political” problem needing a “political” solution.
This is a spiritual battle for the hearts and souls of people!"
"The Bible plainly tells us in 2 Timothy 3:1, “But know this, that in the last days
perilous times will come.” But Jesus also tells us in John 16:33 that, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
So what is the solution for the issues of our world?
Jesus Christ and the life-transforming power of His gospel to transform hearts and change lives from the inside out!"
"In just a few short weeks, Fred Jordan Missions will once again bless thousands of needy children with the supplies they need to go back to school prepared
and equipped to learn - things like new shoes, clothes, backpacks, school
supplies, haircuts, hygiene items and a hot meal from In N Out Burger -- but the greatest gift we can give them is the opportunity to know Jesus Christ personally as we present the gospel and invite them to receive Jesus into their hearts as their Lord and Savior.
Will you pray along with us for the souls of these young people to be transformed through the power of God? Will you pray for hearts to be touched and for God’s love to infiltrate every piece of their heart and mind. Will you stand with us for the souls of Los Angeles? We can’t do it alone.
Because I know you care, thank you in advance for all you will do to bless these children and help bring change to broken and hurting hearts."
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
"They had somewhere to come to for help"
A few weeks ago, during one of our outreaches at the Mission, I met a family – a mom, dad and their five children. I am used to seeing families on the streets of Skid Row, but I have never seen a family who was deaf. Yes, both parents and three of the children were completely deaf.
Dear Friend,
A few weeks ago, during one of our outreaches at the Mission, I met a family – a mom, dad and their five children. I am used to seeing families on the streets of Skid Row, but I have never seen a family who was deaf. Yes, both parents and three of the children were completely deaf.
When I approached the family, there was a volunteer who was serving them and she was a sign language interpreter, so I was able to communicate with them. I asked them why they had come to the Mission and they said, “For clothes for their children and a blessing.”
This family, like so many others, was not on Skid Row because of substance abuse or alcoholism, and they were not hiding out or trying to escape from an unfortunate situation. No, they were on Skid Row because they were in need and had somewhere to come to for help...That is worth repeating,
“They had somewhere to come to for help!”
I spent some time talking with them and then had the privilege of praying for them, asking Jesus to meet all of their many needs. We were also able to give them clothes for their children who will be heading back to school in just a few short weeks.
And that reminds me of something...
Can you imagine starting a new job wearing a tattered shirt or pants with holes in them from excessive wear? Or wearing dirty, smelly sneakers with no socks? Can you envision the looks or comments you would receive from your coworkers or boss and how that would make you feel?
Well, for many children living in poverty, this is, unfortunately, a very similar scenario for them when they go to school without appropriate clothing, shoes or necessary school supplies to succeed. But Fred Jordan Missions has remained committed to changing all of that by “Declaring and Demonstrating the Love of Jesus” to those in need for the past 75 years!
With that being said, our 31st annual Back To School event is just around the corner where we are preparing to bless 3,000 children with brand new shoes from Foot Locker, new clothing, new backpacks filled with school supplies, toys from The Walt Disney Company, toiletries and hygiene items, haircuts from Paul Mitchell Schools and delicious hot-off-the-grill cheeseburgers from In-N-Out Burger! This is one of our biggest events of the entire year, but we need your help to pull it off!
Will you stand with us with your generous giving today? Your gift of any amount will bless children as they go to school equipped with everything they need to succeed. And on behalf of this precious deaf family we served and all the thousands of children we will serve in the weeks ahead, thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Hope for the Skid Row Crisis
The Los Angeles Times recently reported that Los Angeles - the epicenter of the homeless crisis - is “The Homeless Capital of America.”
According to Los Angeles Downtown News, the current statistics on homelessness are staggering...
The number of people living on the streets without shelter surged by 75% in the past six years, and shot up 12% in a one-year period.
Dear Friend,
The Los Angeles Times recently reported that Los Angeles - the epicenter of the homeless crisis - is “The Homeless Capital of America.”
According to Los Angeles Downtown News, the current statistics on homelessness are staggering...
The number of people living on the streets without shelter surged by 75% in the past six years, and shot up 12% in a one-year period.
The number of people experiencing homelessness for the first time increased by 17%.
The number of homeless seniors rose by 7%, which totals 5,225 individuals.
The number of homeless youth surged by 24% over the previous year.
Approximately 16,500 people are living in cars, vans and RV’s.
Assemblyman Miguel Santiago, whose 53rd District includes Downtown, called the increase,
“jaw dropping, unacceptable and no doubt the greatest challenge of our generation."
I know there are many measures placed on the table, and I have no doubt that our mayor, our congress, our assemblymen and our city planners are doing their best to find solutions to this growing crisis, but then there’s JESUS!
Nearly 75 years ago, Jesus strategically placed Fred Jordan Missions right in the heart of Skid Row to serve those living in crisis every day...to be a beacon of hope to the hurting...to declare His great love of salvation to the lost...and to demonstrate His love by helping meet the needs of the poor.
Will you help us have an even greater impact in
the lives of those living in despair on Skid Row by sending your most generous gift today? Your support makes a huge difference in the lives of men, women, children and families.
Thank you in advance for all you will do to help us fight homelessness, hopelessness and hunger with the love of Jesus – for, “the greater the need, the greater the call.”
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Poverty Never Takes a Vacation
Summertime is here! With the kids almost out of school, it is time for trips to the beach, family backyard barbecues, visits to Grandma’s house, swim parties and some much needed time-off from work to just relax and decompress. It is our hope that you have the best summer ever this year!
Summertime is here! With the kids almost out of school, it is time for trips to the beach, family backyard barbecues, visits to Grandma’s house, swim parties and some much needed time-off from work to just relax and decompress. It is our hope that you have the best summer ever this year!
So what do your summer plans look like?
As you make your plans, I would also like you to ask yourself this question: What does “summertime” look like for poor children and families near Skid Row or in the inner cities of Los Angeles?
The answer? Continued poverty...inescapable heat...and struggles to survive! Why?
Because Poverty Never Takes a Vacation!
Here is the good news! Fred Jordan Missions is here with our doors wide open to help meet the unending, daily needs of impoverished children, moms, and dads, in Jesus' name. God has called us to Declare and Demonstrate the Love of Jesus, and we are committed to doing that all summer long – but we need your help!
During the summer months at Fred Jordan Missions, there are more needs to meet and less resources to meet them with. That is why we need your financial support today. Will you faithfully partner with us this summer?
Together, we can help ease the suffering of impoverished men, women, children and families all summer long!
Please consider sending your most generous, summertime gift possible, and thank you so much in advance for all you will do to help further God’s work on and near the streets of Skid Row.
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Where is My Stuff?
Dear Friend,
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey.”
We all remember that catchy little tune from our childhood -- it’s one of those songs that once you start singing, it stays in your head for a while.
Recently, there was a beautiful woman, a mom, who wasn’t humming that tune but something quite to the contrary. She was saying,
Dear Friend,
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey.”
We all remember that catchy little tune from our childhood -- it’s one of those songs that once you start singing, it stays in your head for a while.
Recently, there was a beautiful woman, a mom, who wasn’t humming that tune but something quite to the contrary. She was saying,
“Where is my stuff? I’m a Christian, I trusted God, but where is my stuff?”
You see, this woman fell upon hard times. The fact is, not everyone living on or near Skid Row is an alcoholic, drug addict or prostitute. Some have just fallen to the wayside.
As she sat on the curb across from the Mission on 5th and Towne, she looked at her hands and said, “I can’t remember the last time I had my nails painted and my hair done.”
“You’ll never know Dear; how much I love you...”
Mother’s Day is May 12th and on this special day we will bring sunshine to the streets, spread the love of Jesus to all, and share God’s SONshine to the moms and children of Skid Row so they will know how much they are truly loved.
Mother’s Day at the Mission is a day filled with sunshine, smiles and hugs all around! We will serve a delicious meal, then hand out bags filled with things like hygiene kits, brushes, shampoo and conditioner, lotions and other goodies to bless all the moms who come.
This is where you come in! We need your prayers; we need your volunteer help; we need your financial support, and we need you to continue standing with us today to help make this holiday a special one for moms on Skid Row!
My promise to you and to moms, grandmothers and children served on Mother’s Day is this: They will experience the love of Jesus, the ultimate “SONshine,” and be blessed because of all you help us provide!
Thank you for caring and for giving!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Cure for Hopelessness: The Resurrected Christ
Easter at the Mission is a season filled with HOPE because of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ! Many living on the streets of Skid Row feel they have died, that they’re dead. That’s why they’re here on these lonely, cold, dark and dangerous streets. When they crawl into their tents, cardboard boxes or bury themselves under a tattered blanket or tossed newspaper, they feel as though they might as well be dead.
Dear Friend,
Easter at the Mission is a season filled with HOPE because of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Many living on the streets of Skid Row feel they have died, that they’re dead. That’s why they’re here on these lonely, cold, dark and dangerous streets. When they crawl into their tents, cardboard boxes or bury themselves under a tattered blanket or tossed newspaper, they feel as though they might as well be dead.
But then, there’s Jesus!
He is our Hope! He is our Resurrection! He is our Redeemer from despair, destruction and death! And He conquered death and rose from the grave, so we could be forgiven, restored and redeemed!
John 5:24 says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.”
Will you help me share the message of Hope this Easter and help provide hot meals, warm blankets, socks, clothes and food bags to those in need?
There is true hope for everyone!
And what about you? Are you struggling with despair, disappointment, discouragement, disease or hopelessness?
Let us help you look beyond your
hopeless situation to your hopeful God!
Fill out our online prayer form – it would be our privilege to pray for you, to ask Jesus to intervene on your behalf and to fill you with the Hope of His love and Resurrection power this month.
God bless you for all you do to help bring the Hope of Jesus to the lost and hurting.
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
How long could you live....without Hope?
I read a quote from Hal Lindsay, author of the Late Great Planet Earth. He said... “Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air...but only one second without hope.” At Fred Jordan Missions, we are living testaments to this statement. So often I talk about the people who walk through our doors hopeless, something in life has happened to these poor souls long before they end up here.
Dear Friend,
I read a quote from Hal Lindsay, author of the Late Great Planet Earth. He said... “Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air...but only one second without hope.”
At Fred Jordan Missions, we are living testaments to this statement. So often I talk about the people who walk through our doors hopeless, something in life has happened to these poor souls long before they end up here.
I’ve talked to former Bank Presidents who let success become their God and ultimately ruin their life, leading them down a path of destruction...
They ended up walking through the Mission doors.
I’ve talked to former athletes who suffered an injury or who couldn’t handle the pressure and turned to drugs to help them cope...
They ended up walking through the Mission doors.
I’ve talked to fathers who lost their job and masked their embarrassment and humiliation by turning to alcohol, eventually losing everything...
They ended up walking through the Mission doors.
Not everyone who comes to us is addicted,
but without a doubt everyone has lost hope.
A few days ago I was in front of the Mission where two little girls were riding bikes, followed closely behind by their mom and dad. This family was not addicted to a substance - no, they were victims of a horrific hurricane in Alabama last fall. Their home was damaged and uninhabitable, so they headed West to California to start a new life, far away from the loss and pain they left behind. When things didn’t work out the way they’d hoped -- and with no money and and no shelter -- they ended up on Skid Row right by the Mission, hopeless.
Fred Jordan Missions is an anchor from the storms of life. God has called us to extend a hand to those who are hurting, to help pull them in and to offer them the Hope of Jesus.
To the heroin addict; to the mother who lost a child; to the Bank President who lost their career; to the family who lost their home – we Declare the Hope that is found in Jesus Christ, then Demonstrate His love by comforting them, giving them a shoulder to cry on, offering a hug of compassion and support, feeding them a hot, nourishing meal, and providing clothing, blankets and hygiene items to help in time of need.
And we’re able to do this because of friends like you.
Will you stand with me to continue bringing Hope to those in need? I recognize you have a heart of compassion, so I’m asking you to give generously today.
Thank you in advance for doing all you can to help those in need on Skid Row through Fred Jordan Missions – where HOPE IS SERVED HERE!
Serving Jesus Together,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
Lady in a Box
A couple of days ago, my wife Kris and I were leaving the Mission at the corner of 5th and Towne, downtown Los Angeles.To paint you a picture - on any given day - leaving the Mission could have its challenges.As the sun sets, the streets really begin to take on a life of their own. The makeshift dwellings comprised of wooden pallets and cardboard seemingly begin to rise from the concrete sidewalks.
Dear Friend,
A couple of days ago, my wife Kris and I were leaving the Mission at the corner of 5th and Towne, downtown Los Angeles.
To paint you a picture - on any given day - leaving the Mission could have its challenges.
As the sun sets, the streets really begin to take on a life of their own. The makeshift dwellings comprised of wooden pallets and cardboard seemingly begin to rise from the concrete sidewalks. The more “fortunate” homeless have tents with propane heaters and battery operated lights. Others literally have only the clothes on their backs. These are the ones who wait for the neighboring businesses to close to take refuge in their empty doorways; or who curl up on the cold, hard concrete behind a dumpster or a portable toilet - anything to shield them from the wind or the rain or protect them from the fights, profanity, drug deals and prostitution running rampant throughout the night.
On this day, Kris and I left the Mission walking on Towne Avenue toward our car. As we approached our vehicle, we passed by a medium sized cardboard box turned on its side. There were bags of trash nearby, an abandoned shoe, a half-way folded blanket off to the side and what appeared to be clumps of dark clothing spilling out from within. It looked like a tousled box of trash someone carelessly dumped on the sidewalk.
My heart breaks for the people on these streets, the homeless, the drug addicts, the prostitutes, the “lady in a box.”
It is beyond saddening and disheartening to see one of God’s precious creations living like this. Here was someone’s daughter, possibly someone’s mother, sister, aunt, cousin – and yet here she was...sleeping in a box of trash on the streets of Skid Row.
It seems overwhelming at times, dare I say hopeless, but then there’s Jesus…“Yes, Jesus”...who heals the sick, comforts the brokenhearted and gives hope to the hopeless.
That is what encourages, challenges and motivates me, Kris, my mom Willie, our entire staff and the thousands of volunteers who serve with us throughout the year.
My favorite Scripture is John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
That’s you, that’s me, that’s the brokenhearted on every street around the world – God gave His best for us so that we could be forgiven, saved and restored by His amazing grace.
Will you join with me, my wife Kris, my mom Willie and our entire FJM team to continue Declaring and Demonstrating the love of Jesus to those on Skid Row and beyond?
It’s your generosity that keeps these mission doors open, keeps hot meals on the table, provides cold or hot beverages to the homeless, provides jackets, blankets, beanies, socks, shoes and so much more to men, women and children in need.
For those of you who give to support this work faithfully, “Thank you!” And for those who now recognize the need and have a heart of compassion, then I ask you to give generously today.
Thank you in advance for doing all you can to help those in need on Skid Row through Fred Jordan Missions – where HOPE IS SERVED HERE!
God bless you,
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board
God, we thank Thee for the poverty...
Recently, I have really been enjoying the posts on Instagram (@FJMissions). Our team has been posting some great photos, stories of changed lives, smiles, hugs and tears from our recent events. A couple weeks ago there was a video post of my dad, Fred Jordan, from Thanksgiving in 1984. He was standing on a stage at the corner of 5th and Towne, with the city of Los Angeles as his background, speaking to a massive crowd of homeless guests in attendance.
Happy New Year!
Recently, I have really been enjoying the posts on Instagram (@FJMissions). Our team has been posting some great photos, stories of changed lives, smiles, hugs and tears from our recent events.
A couple weeks ago there was a video post of my dad, Fred Jordan, from Thanksgiving in 1984. He was standing on a stage at the corner of 5th and Towne, with the city of Los Angeles as his background, speaking to a massive crowd of homeless guests in attendance.
As I watched the short clip and reminisced over the familiar sights and sounds -- all of a sudden, the words my dad spoke made me feel really uncomfortable. He said:
“God, we thank Thee for the poverty; we thank Thee for the Skid Row Street!”
I was thinking to myself, “Dad, why are you saying that? Stop it!” I was so confused by what he said that I immediately wanted to turn it off. But then his words began to resonate in my spirit and, a few moments later, I finally understood what he meant. In essence he was saying,
“Jesus, thank you that the poor, the homeless and the hungry are with us on these streets because it’s here we see that NOTHING is impossible for you - there’s NOTHING you can’t do – because You are faithful to save, to provide, to feed, to clothe and to care for the least of these!”
Friend, my dad saw lives changed on Skid Row by the power of God, and so have I. The Bible says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes!” (Romans 1:16 NKJV)
At Fred Jordan Missions, we not only want to see men and women find refuge from the cold; we not only want to feed them and help clothe them; we not only want to see their tears turn into smiles and their sadness turn into joy -- but we want to see their lives transformed by the power of Jesus through the gospel message of salvation!
Will you stand with us this New Year as we continue to “Declare and Demonstrate the Love of Jesus” to the poor, the hungry, the homeless and the hurting? We are more committed than ever to see lives transformed, hope restored, and the Kingdom of God grow.
You never know the tragic story of someone who walks through the Mission’s door. But when you support Fred Jordan Missions, your gifts are put to work to transform their lives through Jesus Christ.
Your gift today of $50, $25, or whatever is right for you, also provides these precious souls with hot food, warm clothes, and relief from winter’s cold.
Your help is needed more than ever as we face the day-to-day challenges of ministering to these precious souls whom Jesus called “the least of these.”
God bless you!
Joe Jordan - President/Senior Pastor
Willie Jordan - Chairman of the Board