On Friday, November 18, The Rescue Mission will host its Annual Celebration & Stewardship Banquet at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum (4000 Parnell Ave.) in Fort Wayne. The event will focus on “Grace and Second Chances,” and will include an inspiring testimony from a current resident, as well as live music and fellowship over dinner. Near 2,000 people are expected to attend. The media is invited for photo and interview opportunities.

In addition to the resident testimony, the event will be emceed by best-selling author Dr. John Townsend, who will interview Major League Baseball great Darryl Strawberry, and his wife Tracy. Attendees will also be treated to a performance by Grammy-winning Christian music artist Steven Curtis Chapman.

“Between our line-up of incredible guests and our resident testimony, it will truly be a celebration of grace and second chances,” said Rich Cummins, Executive VP of Operations for The Rescue Mission. “Our hope is that people will leave feeling inspired and encouraged.”

The banquet takes place during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, which is sponsored by the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger & Homelessness. It is observed each year the week before Thanksgiving, and provides an opportunity to help promote the national endeavor to end hunger and homelessness.