8/28/2023 0 Comments Hopefully yours edmondThe HOPE Center serves many local families through WIC (Women, Infants and Children), a federal program that provides nutrition classes and counseling and breastfeeding classes and support. Counselors also make referrals to the HOPE Center as a resource for families in need or high schoolers struggling to live on their own. ![]() “It happens more often than you’d think,” says Chris. On cold days, it’s not unusual for the staff to get a call from a school counselor, requesting a coat for a student who came to school without one. In hard times, young people are especially vulnerable. “We want people to come in and ask for help. “We do this because we love people,” says Chris. Her caseworker helps carry groceries to her car, and they’ve developed a warm friendship. One established client has limited mobility and needs extra help with food pickup. Over time, caring relationships form between team members and clients. The specialist helped him find a better Medicare package that included prescription coverage. When a recent client on Social Security couldn’t afford his prescriptions, his caseworker encouraged him to consult their on-site Medicare specialist. Serving Our Most Vulnerable ResidentsĪlong with meeting emergency needs, the HOPE Center helps clients find long-term solutions. Grocery packages have been designed by a registered dietician and contain enough nutritious food to provide meals for six people for at least a week. People can apply for assistance online at home or at the local library, and food pickup for established clients is quick and discreet. The HOPE Center honors the confidentiality and dignity of all clients. “This is a unique agency in that it’s always been community supported,” says Chris. Many churches who helped start the nonprofit are still involved today. The acronym HOPE stands for “Helping Our People in Emergencies.” The agency was founded by members of the Ministerial Alliance, with a grant and volunteers from the Edmond Women’s Club. ![]() “It drove home to the Board what a difference we make in the community,” says Chris. ![]() Later, he asked to speak to the Board of Directors about his experience and thank them personally. The HOPE Center stepped in with assistance that allowed him to remain in his home. Struggling with multiple life-threatening health issues, he also faced an eviction notice. One recent client was a retired local pastor. “People don’t always realize how many services we offer,” says Executive Director Chris Sperry. Since 1984, the HOPE Center has given a helping hand to clients across the community, providing food, clothing, utility bill assistance, and much more. Despite Edmond’s upscale reputation, many residents struggle financially.
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