Join us in making a difference for those in need today.
Empowering Lives Through Generosity
Join us in making a difference for those in need today.
Welcome to Sunrise Mission
Join us in making a difference!
For nearly four decades, Sunrise Mission has been a steady presence in Alpena and Northeast Michigan - a safe place where families and individuals can begin again. In 2024 alone, we provided 12,000+ bed nights of shelter, stability, and care.
As a 100% donor-funded, community-rooted, faith-guided shelter, every step forward here is made possible by the generosity of people like you. Our work centers on dignity and respect: keeping families together, supporting survivors of domestic violence, and helping neighbors rebuild their lives with hope for the future.
Together, we are more than a shelter - we are part of the fabric of this community, walking alongside those in need as they move from crisis to stability.
About Sunrise Mission
Who We Are
Rooted in faith. Built on trust. Focused on stability.
Sunrise Mission is the longest-standing homeless and domestic violence shelter in Northeast Michigan - serving Alpena & the surrounding communities since the 1980s. We are a faith-guided, 100% donor-funded nonprofit focused not only on shelter, but on long-term stability and community integration.
Our programs are structured and sobriety-focused, built to help guests access the tools, resources, and support they need to reclaim independence with dignity.
Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of every guest, especially children and survivors of domestic violence.
What We Do
More than a bed - a path forward
Sunrise Mission supports each guest through a structured, program designed to provide both immediate relief and long-term tools for rebuilding. Every guest receives a personalized plan and wraparound support to help move from crisis into stability.
Some of what we provide includes:
- Safe Shelter, warm meals, and basic essentials
- Hygiene Kits, clothing, and access to showers and laundry
- Guest Liaisons to assist with medical care, mental health, case management, and agency navigation
- School Enrollment support for children, including transportation coordination
- Employment Coaching and help maintaining stable work
- Life-skills Classes for all guests — covering hygiene, budgeting, community responsibility, and parenting
- Faith-based Community such as Bible study and spiritual support
- Warm Referrals when space is limited to trusted partner organizations.
Our services are trauma-aware, dignity-centered, and deeply practical. We offer more than safety — we provide support, stability, and pathways to lasting change
Who We Serve
Families and children are at the heart of what we do
We support a wide range of community members in need - with an increasing number of families and children entering shelter each year. In 2024, we cared for up to 18 children at one time - the most in our history.
We primarily serve:
- Families and children experiencing homelessness
- Women and children escaping domestic violence
- Single adults (both men and women) in crisis
- Students and minors referred through local agencies
- Residents of Alpena and the surrounding Northeast Michigan region
Sunrise Mission is a place where families can stay together while receiving structured, stability-focused support - rooted in dignity, not judgment.
Need Help? Here's How to Reach Out:
If you or someone you know is in need of shelter or support:
- Call us directly at 989-356-1277 to check availability or begin the intake process
Please note: Space is limited, but each guest is welcomed with grace and a path toward healing, hope, and restoration.
Vision for the Future
Program Development & Support Services
We’re actively expanding the depth and reach of our services to support guests and communities:
- Educational and life skills classes to promote independence
- Parenting support, trauma-informed resources, and mentorship programs
- Entrepreneurship and employment readiness initiatives
- Long-term case management and aftercare for continued success
- Spiritual care, Bible study, and healing pathways rooted in faith
Facility Growth & Community Outreach
With needs rising, we are working to expand our space and community reach.
- Goals for new shelter facilities and expanded family housing
- Outdoor improvements and communal gathering areas
- A small guest-run gift shop featuring handmade goods to support skills + dignity
- Potential future projects: warming center, education hub, resource library
- Deeper partnerships with local churches, businesses, and service providers
Website & Digital Presence Updates
This site is a temporary home while our full digital overhaul is underway.
- Full new website launching soon — user-friendly, mobile-optimized, and deeply aligned with our mission
- Online donation upgrades to make supporting us easier than ever
- Clearer guest intake information and helpful FAQs for families in crisis
- Updated media, guest stories, and event calendars
- New tools for community members, volunteers, and donors
Donate Now
Every step forward at Sunrise Mission is made possible by the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and community. Thank you for walking alongside us.
Your gift helps families find safety, healing, and a fresh start.
