And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. (Revelation 12:11 ESV)
"The greatest story never told": A fellow servants testimony!
My name is Art Harker; a layman at Trinity Presbyterian Church. I have had the priviledge of working with Church on the Street (COTS) in Prescott for about sixteen years. I would like to take this opportunity to share with you the reasons why I believe that their story is so important to the community.
Most people in the community, including local churches, do not really know the COTS story. With the help of the Lord, COTS welcomes men into their Christ centered rehabilatation program who have ended up literally living on the street through a variety of unfortunate circumstances; primarily due to their being caught up in drugs and/or alcohol related problems. Many men find their way to COTS by referral from local social services, the Yavapai Regional Medical Center, the police and court system.
COTS provides shelter for over eighteen men who enter their Fresh Start program. These men make a one year commitment to give up all drugs and alcohol use while attending daily Bible studies and church services. Their participation is monitored by other men who have gone through the discipleship program with whom they can personally relate because they have 'been there too'. The goal is for each man to go through a twelve month discipleship program which ultimately allows them to return to being productive members of society.
The following are some basic facts that most people do not know about COTS
COTS is a non-profit 501c3 organization.
COTS does not own the Carleton St or Robinson Dr. properties they operate from. They are maintained by way of a very nominal rental arrangement.
COTS does not receive any governmental support. Over 90% of their funding comes from donation by local individuals like you.
COTS gives out thousands of items of clothing every year to the poor, needy and homeless.
COTS serves about 8,000 meals at their four weekly outreaches to thehomeless and needy every year.
COTS gives out over 1000 food boxes to needy families annually.
