As I begin this note, I can’t help but think back to this time last year and my hopeful vision for another wonderful year (our 105th!) at Hope Ministries. Little did any of us know then what the year would hold: a blistering election season, civil unrest, a devastating derecho . . .

And, of course, the global pandemic that has affected almost every area of our lives. Like me, you may be fatigued from talk of COVID-19, but it’s impossible to look back at 2020 without acknowledging its impact. We felt that impact even as we continued feeding, sheltering and caring for vulnerable individuals and families. We made regular adjustments—sometimes on a daily basis—for the health and safety of our guests, staff and volunteers.

But through it all, there was always a light shining in the dark: God’s faithfulness and provision through ministry friends like you. You gave generously. You volunteered when you could—sometimes remotely!

Your partnership made such a difference last year. In addition to the thousands of men, women and children who received rescue services—and the hundreds who worked hard to rebuild their lives in our life recovery programs—2020 also saw the renovation of our men’s shelter and exciting progress in our future vision for our women and children’s services. You can read more about these exciting updates—plus be inspired by Ron’s testimony—in our 2020 Annual Impact Report:

Even in the stormiest of years, your kindness shone brightly—and I’m grateful. It’s our privilege to work alongside you to fulfill our mission of rescue, recovery and restoration. I hope you will consider how you might partner with us again this year—financially or in other ways.

Thank you for being a part of our Hope Ministries family!