Our History

During the early 1970’s, Bob Ledford, an employee of Union, Light, Heat and Power Co., and a member of Calvary Baptist Church saw the plight of many inner-city children. Some were physically neglected and abused; others were in emotional and spiritual ruin.

Bob and several other Christians had a vision to minister to these children and their families. This small band of workers purchased vans and took these children to church, later forming Bible clubs for them. Their Bible clubs needed a place to meet and call their own. So, Bob’s church purchased a building on Banklick Street in 1974 and formed the Banklick Street Mission.

The growing mission began to hold worship services for adults and help these families with clothes, groceries, Christmas toys, and counsel. In 1977, under the direction of Rev. Randall Faulkner, the mission was relocated. Then called the Pike Street Mission, it began to expand its ministry to destitute people.

In 1981, Rev. Paul D. Kaiser became the first full-time director of the mission. His vision grew beyond the services offered at that time. For the next three years Rev. Kaiser not only directed the operation of the mission, but he investigated the feasibility of converting the Pike Street Mission into a fully operational rescue mission. Having talked to many churches, social agencies, and other charitable organizations, it was overwhelmingly expressed that a service to destitute men was greatly needed in Northern Kentucky. This service would include overnight lodging in order to adequately meet their many needs.

As a result of this feasibility study, the Pike Street Mission blossomed into the Fairhaven Rescue Mission in 1984. Progress continued as Fairhaven was incorporated by local professionals and businesspersons. It is now a community-based, inter-denominational ministry. Following this, the interest and support of many in the community increased.