Zeal Church disclosed Monday that it has entered a contract to purchase the building at 222 S. Howard St., directly across from its current campus, with the goal of creating a faith‑based restoration center called The Justice Reform Spokane. The project is intended to provide services for individuals impacted by addiction and human trafficking, a concern that local leaders say directly affects Spokane families.
According to KHQ, the church must raise $600,000 by Dec. 15 to secure the property. To meet that deadline, Zeal Church is hosting two “Responsibility Dinners” as fundraisers—one on Nov. 19 and another on Dec. 2. The organization also invites monetary donations, sponsorships, prayer, and attendance at the dinners, directing interested parties to zealchurchwa.com/justice for registration and further information.
Senior Lead Pastor Ray Valdez explained the church’s motivation, stating, “We believe the Church has a responsibility to answer the cry for justice in our city. We cannot simply acknowledge the brokenness around us; we must be willing to respond.” He added that the envisioned center will allow those affected by trafficking and addiction to “encounter the power of God, experience restoration, and walk in lasting freedom,” emphasizing that the effort extends beyond the congregation to the entire Spokane community.
The initiative follows Zeal Church’s recent decision to end its lease with Shalom Ministries, an organization that previously assisted individuals struggling with addiction. In its press release, the church reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to addressing addiction and described the new restoration residence as a “significant, long‑term investment” in that mission.
Zeal Church identifies as a non‑denominational, presence‑driven congregation led by Senior Pastors Ray and Shantel Valdez. While the purchase and renovation are slated for completion in 2028, the immediate focus is on fundraising and community engagement to meet the Dec. 15 deadline.
What’s next: Spokane residents can support the effort by attending the Nov. 19 or Dec. 2 Responsibility Dinners, making direct donations, or offering sponsorships. The church will provide updates on fundraising progress and construction timelines as the project moves toward its 2028 opening.
Sources: khq.com
