MAY ROUND UP
- Lake Stocks
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Dear Wonderful Donors & Supporters
As we move towards the summer months we are excited at the progress we are making in our new Center of Hope Shelter and plans for future partnerships which will positively impact our at-risk community. We continue to move residents into permanent housing. We are hopeful to have some older children residents attend our Divisional Camping program in Denton, NC.
Current cost of living expenses continues to impact individuals, seniors, and families in our community who are in need of our services. We are grateful for the continued support of our donors and foundation/grant partners. Our five thrift stores are doing well. Income raised supports our programs and operational expenses. May God continue to bless you as we enjoy His beautiful nature around us.
-Majors Ken and Connie Morris
CENTER OF HOPE UPDATES
Our partnership with Novant Health continues to grow! We currently have an agreement to allocate beds for patients being discharged from local Emergency Department and/or Behavioral Health Department. This will ensure an individual is not discharged to homelessness following hospitalization. Novant Health ensures regular availability for priority referrals for Center of Hope residents at the Michael Jordan Clinic. This has led to immediate access to establishing a primary care provider which allows us to build critical momentum for our resident’s medical conditions that have been untreated due to homelessness. Their mobile integrated team recently conducted a third health screening to residents 18 and older within our shelter. We plan to host their team on a monthly basis, creating even more opportunities to address each resident’s health needs.
Our new partnership with the City Council of Government’s Workforce Development Board has yielded great results in its first month as over 70% of adults within the Center of Hope are now currently employed. NC Works leadership team recently conducted a presentation for our residents educating them on available resources at their disposal. Plans are underway for hosting a Job Fair at the Center of Hope.
The Center of Hope Food Services Program mission is to provide wholesome, sustainable meals to our residents and community.
Through generous donations and community partnerships with the Food Bank, Target, Fresh Market, and others we not only feed our residents but also have a Community Feed that caters to Eden Village, the Creekwood community, and others who may come to our shelter each evening from 6:00-6:30pm, 7 days per week.
SOCIAL SERVICES UPDATES
We are encouraged by the generosity and support from Food Bank donations which has allowed us to partner with the Living Hope Day Center to provide breakfast and lunch for program participants. We have also been partnering with the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Shower Trailer by providing undergarments and hygiene products for our unhoused community.
Our satellite office located in the Pender County DSS office has moved with DSS to a new building at 288 Progress Drive in Burgaw. We are hoping to increase our presence there from 1 day to possibly 2-3 days per week. Our Hampstead, Bladen and Columbus County offices have seen an increase in visits. Many clients are requesting financial assistance with electric bills due to recent energy power bill spikes.
Volunteer or Make a Donation!
We offer both short-term and long-term opportunities throughout the year—from one-time projects to ongoing service roles that create a lasting impact. Whether you’re ready to give your time or support our mission financially, every contribution helps make a difference in our community. Visit the links below to learn more and to donate!