Columbia Dream Center goes to LA

 The following article is based on a recent mission trip to Los Angeles by the Columbia Dream Center. Photos were provided by Dream Center team member Gene Sweeney. 

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Here are several photos of Skid Row, showing the conditions there. Skid row extends for 50 city blocks and contains over 4,000 people.

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The team visited the historic parsonage of Sister Aimee McPherson, a pioneering evangelist who played a significant role in shaping the Christian landscape of Los Angeles. Remarkably, she acquired the land for just $500, a strategic move that allowed her to establish a stronghold for her ministry. 

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This is the LA Dream Center.

Sweeney says that Hollywood officials offered about $16.7 million for the property, but the owners sold it for $2.9 million to the Dream Center.

According to the LA Dream Center, their mission is to empower individuals in rebuilding and transforming their lives by offering a range of tools, education, community support, and various programs—all at no cost.

Each week, the Center reaches out to approximately 30 neighborhoods across LA County, delivering resources and fostering connections within the community.

Residential programs, which accommodate over 500 individuals and families, provide a safe and structured environment for personal growth and renewal.

Team members, including Pastor Dave Powers (shown above) prepared food and carried out other activities at the Dream Center. 

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These photos show MacArthur Park. According to Sweeney, people who were pushed out of Skid Row in an attempt to "clean up" the area ended up in the park. He said many ODs have occurred in the park, and people are fighting over small areas of turf. In one instance, Pastor Powers prayed over a man who OD'd and stopped breathing, and the man's eyes opened. 

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These photos show the aftermath of a vehicle accident in which a motorcyclist hit the side of the team's van. None of the team members was seriously injured. 

With mission accomplished, the team recently returned to Columbia, safe and sound.

You can see more photos from the trip HERE.