Our History

Mrs. Florence Holzschuh and Mrs. Helen Durdel began serving donuts and coffee in a storefront on SW Adams Street because of the burden they felt for homeless men in Peoria.  In October 1955, these women met with the Ministerial Association, asking them to organize a Rescue Mission Board.  During the next few years, a residential program for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with homeless men became what is known today as Peoria Rescue Mission.

A farm in rural Peoria County is donated and plans begin to take shape for a men’s long-term renewal program. Known as Victory Acres, this program includes Bible studies, counseling, and a work program to help men heal from various forms of addictive behavior.

The present Rescue Mission building is constructed to accommodate nearly 100 men.  Clothing, food, and overnight lodging continues to be provided to men who are homeless and in need.

A need is seen to minister to women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy or recovering from post-abortion trauma. The Women’s Pregnancy Center is founded and serves the area by providing free pregnancy testing, STI testing, sonography, baby diapers and supplies, etc. The Center is now known as the Empower Life Center. A counseling center, now known as the Barnabas Counseling, is also opened to offer free Biblical instruction and encouragement to individuals and families.

Esther House opens as a long-term residential renewal program for women and their dependent children. It provides a safe and inviting environment for women to come learn about Jesus Christ and grow in their walk with Him.  Biblical principles and life skills are taught to help the residents become self-sustaining members of our community.

An emergency shelter available to women opens at the Esther House facility.  Services provided include warm beds, showers, nutritious meals, clean clothes, chapel services, Bible studies, and individualized case management.

The ministries’ first Transitional Residence opens it’s doors as a place where graduates of the Men’s Residential Programs can live in community for up to three years in an affordable and accountable environment.

Peoria Mulch launches as a local provider and installer of premium landscape mulch utilizing the mulch derived from the ministries’ pallet recycling operations.

RECLAIMED is a work-readiness training program producing home décor products that tell the story of restored lives, renewed hope and repurposed pallets.

In January of 2024 the ministry became officially known at PATHWAY Ministries to better reflect the ministries emphasis on lasting life change.