The Mission of American Rescue Workers
American Rescue Workers (ARW) is a faith based non-profit organization providing hunger and homelessness prevention services in Lycoming County since 1934. ARW cares holistically for men, women, and children who find themselves in an emergency situation or a homeless crisis by providing shelter and social services. The Williamsport American Rescue Workers is a part of the national ARW organization whose headquarters is also located in Williamsport.
Annually, ARW provides shelter to over 1,100 homeless men, women and children. 76,000 meals are served to shelter residents as well. A 3-day emergency supply of groceries is distributed to over 1,000 families per month and over $350,000 in emergency rental and utility assistance is given out to help keep families in their homes and from avoiding the homeless crisis. American Rescue Workers helps members of the community reach self-sufficiency through work programs, shelter, food, case management, and spiritual guidance.
American Rescue Workers operates 10 Thrift Stores across Central Pennsylvania, the Social Service Center, three shelters for men, women, and children, and American Rescue Workers Community Church.
ARW is primarily funded through the resale and recycling of donated goods in our 10 Thrift Store locations. Other critical annual funding comes from grants, as well as generous foundation, individual, and corporate donors.