Find out about Lake County’s only homeless shelter, their new Families Moving Forward program, and how you can help support this important ministry…
Homelessness has long been a problem in Lake County. In 1992, the Catholic Commission of Lake and Geauga called together a roundtable discussion of area churches and leaders to address the situation. Since then, under the direction of the Ecumenical Shelter Network of Lake County, Inc., Project Hope for the Homeless has been renewing hope and restoring the lives of hundreds of homeless men, women, and children.
The Emergency Shelter provides space for up to 35 adults and children each night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., not only offering them a safe place to stay, but also giving them the basic needs and professional guidance to help them improve their quality of life. More than half of the guests leave the shelter for a better living situation.
Guests can also opt to participate in an Aftercare Program that, for up to one year, offers financial support through administration of federal funding, regular home visits and phone calls, monthly support groups and in-kind help, as needed.
Families Moving Forward was created to bridge the gap from 1 p.m.-7 p.m. to provide a safe, child-friendly place for families finding shelter at Project Hope. Services include comfortable, clean cots and cribs for children to rest, computer stations and volunteers to help children complete homework, and space for parents to improve their lives and the lives of their children.
- How can YOU assist this Mission?
- Lift up the Staff and clients in prayer
- Make a monetary donation to Project Hope
- Check out their website at projecthopeonline.org for their current “Wish List”
- Volunteer to provide a meal. Mentor UMC coordinates the first two Wednesdays of each month. Sign up on the Mission board in the hallway near the Youth Ministry office
- Help with facility maintenance and repairs
- Help with sorting and organization of donated items
- To assist at the Shelter or Family Center one must be over 18, submit an application and attend some training.
For more information, contact Nancy Leyden at nancyleyden@att.net.
