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Our Story

On a mission since 1888

On a mission since 1888

The love of Jesus Christ

keeps us on mission

Since our founding in 1888, Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County has been a beacon of hope and love for the most vulnerable in our community. What began as a simple outreach to those experiencing homelessness has grown into a transformative ministry, rooted in the belief that meeting our neighbors’ needs with Christ’s unwavering love leads to lasting change.

Ten Acres. One Mission.
Countless Lives Transformed.

Our ten-acre campus offers more than shelter. We provide a safe, healthy, and supportive space where men, women, and children can begin their journey toward healing and self-sufficiency. Here, individuals are welcomed with compassion and dignity, encouraged to share their stories, and empowered to embrace their strengths and hopes.

Services go beyond basic needs. We take a holistic approach, caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of each person who walks through our doors. From the moment they arrive, we seek to show them the love of Christ and equip them with the skills and confidence to build independent, thriving lives.

See the Impact of Your Support

Each meal served, each night of shelter provided, and each life renewed stands as testimony to what God can do when we remain on a mission together. Greg’s story is a powerful example of this transformation—the life-changing work that happens when individuals are met with love, support, and faith. His journey reflects the heart of our mission—to restore hope and dignity so that transformed lives can go on to transform others, one life at a time.

A lifeline and a new beginning

A lifeline and a new beginning

Our journey

through the years

From Seeds of Faith to Spiritual Cornerstone (1888-1909)

1888: The mission gets its start as Bethel Mission, formed by several downtown churches.
1909: Renamed as Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County with the motto: “No creed but Christ; no law but love.”
1925: Construction of a new four-story building at the corner of Houston and Fifteenth Streets.
1974: Expansion to include a women’s home and family center, marking the beginning of services beyond just men.
1979: Move to current location at 1331 East Lancaster, establishing the foundation for the modern campus.
1993: Dedication of McFadden Hall for Senior Women, adding 16 apartments.

1995: Don Shisler steps in as CEO, bringing visionary leadership and a commitment to lasting change. His first priority was restoring dignity, starting with cleaning and revitalizing the facilities. He also strengthened UGM-TC’s foundation by building a more engaged board of directors, ensuring the mission would thrive for generations to come.

2006: Same Kind of Different As Me becomes a New York Times bestseller, shining a national spotlight on UGM-TC and bringing greater awareness to the struggles of countless Americans facing homelessness, hunger, and uncertainty about their next meal or a safe place to sleep.
2008: Launch of the Healing Shepherd Clinic, addressing healthcare needs for our residents and guests.
2016: Dedication of the Scott Walker Women and Families Services Building.
2019: Opening of The Vineyard on Lancaster Apartments to combat lack of affordable housing.
2022: Groundbreaking for The Community Outreach Center.
2024: A new chapter begins as Charles M. Wolford II steps in as CEO, bringing fresh leadership and vision to UGM-TC. This year also marks the opening of The Community Outreach Center, expanding our mission to serve those in need.

Hope starts here

Our Story Continues Through You

Our story is still being written through the lives that are transformed on our campus through the compassionate hearts of those who partner with us. As we look to the future, we remain committed to being God’s healthy place to end homelessness in Tarrant County, providing hope, respect and new beginnings to our unsheltered neighbors through discipleship and the transformational love of Christ.

Become a part of our story.
Support our mission.

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