Is Summer 2010 Ever Going to End?

Thursday, September 2, 2010 by Hank Rush
I’ve been sharing with you and with our community since June about the unusual trends we’re seeing this summer, as hundreds more families have been coming to Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter and others throughout the city, in crisis and in need of help.

So far this year, we at Star of Hope have served 50,000 more meals than we did during the same months last year, and that was a record year for Star of Hope, with over 668,000 meals served! This emergency shelter has been full every night this summer, and in addition, has had large numbers of "overnighters" sleeping on the floor. We have worked hard to serve them well, and you have helped with additional donations and volunteer hours to meet the demands. We are so grateful for your partnership and help!

As I write to you today, we are still experiencing unusually high overflow crowds of 90–100 people each night, double what we say during Hurricane Katrina. As you know, Star of Hope does not turn anyone away, unless they present as violent. These families’ and single women’s stories mostly center around the economy, fleeing of abuse, or the end of "doubling up" situations they have been in where they have shared an apartment or home with another family, and have worn out their welcome.

We seek your prayers for the thousands of individuals homeless in Houston this summer, who are having an especially difficult time with full shelters, difficult job prospects, babies’ and children’s needs, in the absence of any financial resources. We also seek your prayers for Star of Hope Staff, who have the best intentions to serve and help, but are finding this unusually extended economically-driven crisis especially challenging!

If you feel God leading you to help us in some specific way, please respond to this blog or send an email to info@sohmission.org to discuss further.

Visit Volunteer Opportunities Houston or Donation Opportunities Houston for a
list of ways to help and creative ways to donate.

Team Effort Scores Big for Star of Hope

Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by Marilyn Fountain
The Astros organization is batting a thousand when it comes to community outreach, and, boy, did they hit a homer for Star of Hope. In conjunction with their partnership program with State Farm Insurance, the Astros Foundation Development team selected us to be the recipient of the State Farm’s Good Neighbor award—on the Astros field, no less, before thousands of cheering fans.

What a huge blessing! And the timing could not have been better. Think about it. We have unprecedented numbers of overflow guests—women and children-- bedding down on our emergency shelter floor every night, mat-to-mat, because our rooms are at capacity. More challenging? Our need for resources to care for them is growing right along with the increasing numbers. But lo and behold, the Astros organization saw our need, stepped right up to the plate, and knocked one out of the park for us via their State Farm partner. And Like a good neighbor, State Farm was there with a $500 check to give hope to the homeless, at Star of Hope. Sweet!

One of the special moments early in the evening was a meet-and-greet with outfielder Jason Michaels. He’s a pleasant, self-effacing chap--makes you feel like you’re just hanging out together, catching up on old times with a good friend. I felt an instant, migratory kinship with him. He played for the Pittsburgh Pirates (my hometown ball club), and, later, for the Philadelphia Phillies (I lived in Philadelphia for many years and rooted for the team), and, now, here we are in Houston. Oh, yeah, off season, he’s in Tampa, Florida. I’m in Tampa often. It’s where my brother lives.

It was a great night. Hank Rush, our president and CEO accepted a presentation check from State Farm’s James Banks that was big enough for the folks in the peanut gallery to read. The rest of the Star of Hope team attending the event: Betty Nunnally, Vice President of Programs, Mary Cantu, Vice President of Development, and I, cheered him on, along with that wascally wabbit: Junction Jack. What a kick he is, and cuddly, too. I know. I have a big bunny-hug photo to prove it.

Learn about ways you can give at Star of Hope Charitable Donations Houston.

Hope Floats Up on the Kemah Boardwalk

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by Erika Wise

While the warm breeze blows in from the Gulf of Mexico on another HOT day in Texas...these men are grateful.  They are continuing their journey of HOPE... together!!

Most of these six men entered Star of Hope's Men's Development Center (Drug Rehab Centers Houston) and did so "just in time." Some were on their way to an early grave; some had already been in prison and were on the verge of going back; and, all were tired of their lives and wanted something different.

Houston Emergency Shelter gives men, women and families HOPE. Whether it is drug abuse, family alienation, or our country's declining economy--Star of Hope shelters and programs are there to see that Hope Floats Up! 

These men have their own apartments again--some for TWO years now! Charitable Donations Houston allow them the ability to have their own homes while still getting some encouragement and accountability in their lives.  The Star of Hope New Horizons Program encourages these men to carve out a community of Christ-followers and lift each other up as they learn how to live these NEW lives.

 
Derrick Jones, New Horizons Community Pastor, used these words to describe the day (he went with them):

“After testimonies, bible study and prayer, it was time for us to travel to Kemah, Texas for recreational fun. We arrived in Kemah and ate a wonderfully delicious sea food buffet at the Lighthouse Buffet on the Kemah Boardwalk. After absolutely stuffing ourselves, we stood by the bay and watched as countless boats, yachts, catamarans, and jet skies went out into the Gulf waters. We listened to live music that was really relaxing and soothing to the weary soul. We progressed on and watched several magic, dance, and variety shows by extremely gifted entertainers. By this time, we were worn out by the day’s activities and events, and decided to return home. The men had a great time. After living lives that that never afforded them the opportunity to really enjoy life, these men who have given their lives to Christ had the chance to enjoy and appreciate God’s creation. They were greatly encouraged by the camaraderie that was forged on August 7, 2010. It was a great day to be a man – a man saved by the precious blood of Jesus Christ and in fellowship with other saved men!”



Hope Floats Up--even on the Kemah Boardwalk!! Praise God.

 

The Blind Side Opened Houston's Eyes to Star of Hope

Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by Scott Arthur
It was a hot August night, but a breeze carried relief and a message of Hope to about 1500 Houstonians as they sat outside at Miller Outdoor Theatre and watched one of the best movies of 2009. Last Saturday, Star of Hope hosted  a showing of The Blind Side - the feel good movie about NFL star Michael Oher and his tenure with the Touhy family. Sandra Bullock's performance won her the academy award and the story won the hearts of movie fans everywhere. Sean and Leigh Anne Touhy will be our guest speakers at the 2011 Star of Hope Banquet in February.

The event was billed as the Star of Hope "Can" Film Festival - inviting all to bring a donation of "Canned Goods" to help us feed the 1,000 homeless men, women and children we serve in our Shelters in Texas EVERYDAY.

You know how your favorite part of the movie used to be BEFORE the feature ...cartoons and stuff? (I know - I'm really dating myself). Well on Saturday night - I thought the show before the movie was great. Top rated Sunny 99.1 radio personality (and Star of Hope board member) Dana Tyson hosted the night and Houston's First Lady of TV - KHOU's Deborah Duncan sang The Star of Hope song - which she co-wrote. Then, the crowd was treated to a 4 minute tour of Star of Hope Shelters Houston Texas hosted by our President and CEO Hank Rush - big as life on the giant screen.

The audience was even given an opportunity to donate $10 by texting SOH to 20222. For a limited time - that donation will be matched by a generous donor. So if you are so inclined as to donate - now is a GREAT time to be supporting Houston Ministries, especially Star of Hope, one of the most effective non Profit Organizations Houston.

It was a magic night. For those of you who have trouble imagining it - here's a link to a quick Star of Hope YouTube "Can Film Festival" tribute.

Hey Houston…You Rock!

Tuesday, August 17, 2010 by Marilyn Fountain

The Blind Side at Miller Outdoor TheatreFor those of you who turned out for the Star of Hope “Can” Film Festival at Miller Outdoor Theater last Saturday evening to watch The Blind Side, here’s a great, big SHOUT-OUT of thanks for braving the heat and celebrating a Summer of Hope with us.
 
We love it that you put us on your weekend itinerary, brought can goods and took the “SOH” to 20222 text challenge, which delivered $10 to Star of Hope with every tap of the “send” button.  (And by the way, your text dollars were doubled, thanks to a very generous donor).   It was a cool event – temperature notwithstanding — and a wonderful time to hang out under the stars and watch a fabulous flick with a message we can all embrace. 

You can’t imagine what an amazing site it was for those of us who work at Star of Hope to see so many folks and families spread over the grassy hillside and in the seats, supporting this event.  Because—bottom line—it’s all about the people in our midst who have so little, the homeless many who come to our doors in desperate need of help, sometimes just to get through the day.  We never know when, and under what circumstances, we will need to reach out to others for help, because life has taken us to a hard, dry place.  But isn’t it nice to know that we live in a town where “reaching out” is more than a phrase?  It’s the Houston way.

So blessings to you and to Dana Tyson of SUNNY 99.1, Bill Ingram and Jen Driskill from KSBJ, and the dynamic Deborah Duncan from KHOU.  WE LOVE YOU!

Learn more about Star of Hope and ways to give at Charitable Donations Houston.

Star of Hope “Can” Film Festival

Thursday, August 12, 2010 by Marilyn Fountain

These days, it’s hard to find a family activity that’s fun for everyone-- and free.  But, as part of our Summer of Hope campaign, we’ve got a great evening planned for this coming Saturday, August 14, that fits the bill.  We’re calling it our Star of Hope “Can” Film Festival.  No, this is not a misspelling of the big shindig in the south of France.  We are hosting a glorious night under the stars at the Miller Outdoor Theater, featuring a showing of the block-buster movie, The Blind Side.

This is the family version of the film, so no worries about language or content.  If you’ve seen it already, come see it again; and if you haven’t, you’re in for a wonderful experience as this true story of courage, compassion, and the power of love to change lives unfolds on the screen.  What’s more, KSBJ will be there broadcasting live. Dana Tyson from SUNNY 99.1 will be there, as well, hosting the night, and we’ll have a performance by KHOU’s Deborah Duncan.  Can she belt out a song or what?  You don’t want to miss it. 

You’re wondering how does “Can” fit in to all this, right?  Here’s how.  The evening is free, but we are asking everyone to bring a bag of can foods to help us feed the homeless men, women, and children in our care.  The food collection begins at 7:30 p.m. and the move starts at 8:15.  You’re all invited! We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Get a list of needed items at Food Donation Houston
Invite your friends on facebook!

Virtual Volunteers

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by Scott McKinley
Around Star of Hope we have a lot of on-site volunteer opportunities. Check out Community Volunteer Opportunities Houston and you'll see what I'm talking about. If your searching for volunteer opportunities we also have a few off-site, "virtual" volunteer opportunities you may be interested in.

When I first began thinking about how I could help the homeless my first thoughts centered around serving meals. It was all about being on-site and hands on. That's what I did and it was great!

Over the last couple of weeks, with all of the Star of Hope news on Houston media,  we have seen an outpouring of love in our community. Friends donating online or giving $10 by texting "SOH" to 20222. Friends calling and emailing, asking how they can help. Friends on Facebook and Twitter are helping us get the word out. Other friends are organizing drives and collecting items that we urgently need. Others are continuing to pray for Houston's homeless... those who are on the street and those who are in programs at Star of Hope. I am amazed and so thankful!

What can you do off-site and at your convenience to help Houston's homeless? I just mentioned some ways. Off course you can do these things without telling us, but let us know and we can help you with some resources. Click on the links below to learn more.
Thanks again for Caring for Houston's Homeless!

The Blind Side

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by Tarala Rybacki
Looking for a fun family activity this weekend?  Or perhaps a special date night with a loved one?  

Please join Star of Hope at Miller Outdoor Theatre on August 14 for a FREE screening of the Academy Award winning movie The Blind Side.  You can help Houston's homeless by bringing a canned food donation to help us feed the nearly 1,000 homeless men, women and children we serve every day.  We will be showing the family-friendly version of The Blind Side, so please bring your family!

For more details and information click on The Blind Side and feel free to pass it along!  We hope to see you there!

Get a list of suggested food donations at More Than A Soup Kitchen Houston.

Praying for Somebody to Help

Thursday, August 5, 2010 by Scott McKinley
If you missed it on KHOU/11 News last night, you need to watch this video. Got to love what Casey, a gentleman receiving help at Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter says:

“Every day, even though I’m here, I pray for God to give me somebody to help. And if a homeless person can help somebody out, then anybody can.”

 
 

Give today at Star of Hope Mission and tell your friends how they can help. It’s as easy as texting “SOH” to 20222 to donate $10.

Thanks for caring for the homeless!

Diapers Anybody?

Thursday, July 29, 2010 by Marilyn Fountain

diapers neededThere isn’t a day that goes by that I am not conscience of how blessed I am that my family and I have the things we need to sustain us.  Working at Star of Hope keeps me mindful, humble, and grateful.  I see the homeless come by the hundreds on a daily basis, suffering from so much lack, many of them parents with young children, and I know that God put me here to help them.

One of my responsibilities is to locate sources for stocking our shelves with the items needed to properly care for our clients.  That has always proven to be a rewarding pursuit, mainly because Houston is such a generous town.  I remember how intimidated I was when I first arrived here from the East Coast, knowing nothing about the personality of the city, its people, or how to ask for their support.  I fully expected to be politely turned down.   So I wrote out a script with God-fatherly intent: to make an offer they couldn’t refuse; in this case, an offer that would open their hearts to a message of help.  Well, a funny thing happened.  I never got to use my script, because the answers I got were, “Yes,” and, “Is there anything more I can do?” 

Those of you who are faithful readers of our blogs know that, in this economy, our donations have dropped as our client numbers continue to rise.  Right now, our family shelters are in dire need of diapers.  “Dire” might seem like an overstatement,  in reference to diapers, but I assure you it is not.  We use 1,500 diapers a month on hundreds of little bottoms.  We could sure use your help in keeping them fresh and dry.  If anyone would like to host a diaper drive for the babies at Star of Hope, please contact us at 713-440-5341, or by email cratliff@sohmission.org.  I, for one, would be so thankful; besides, I threw away my old Godfather script.

Visit Star of Hope Mission at Charitable Donations Houston for our locations and lists other needed items.

Where Big Dreams Start

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 by Scott McKinley

If you missed it in the mail a couple of weeks ago, Star of Hope’s July Newsletter – The Light – is online.

Star of Hope's July 2010 Interactive NewsletterThis issue includes:
- Where Big Dreams Start - A message from Hank Rush
- Freed by the Truth
- Thank  you for packing their lives with promise!  
- School Supplies for Success!                                   
- Think About the Dollar in Your  Pocket — by Elizabeth Calvert Hickman                 
- Tribute Gifts           
- Sharing Their Blessings: Mark and Lisa Ammerman
                                   
There’s still time to send a note of encouragement for children at Star of Hope who start back to school on August 23. Please post your note along with the others and we will give them to the children before school starts.
 

Go to www.sohmission.org for ways to get involved and donate to
Charity Houston for the homeless, Star of Hope Mission.

 

The Yellow Roads of "Text Us"

Monday, July 26, 2010 by Scott Arthur

Recently, we switched our Yellow Cab Ads. Have you noticed? We now offer ANOTHER option in our Ways to Give collection. You can now INSTANTLY donate $10 to help Star of Hope help the homeless in Houston. Just text "SOH" to 20222. It's that simple - and that important to us.

We call this campaign "The Summer of Hope" and we feature a cute little girl (an actual client) pretty in pink with a smile that would melt an iceberg. But if we showed you the hundreds of children without homes this summer - right here in Houston - you wouldn't see many smiles. You'd see frowns and sparks of panic and fear in their eyes.
 
Houston is without question, one of the most generous cities in America. But even Space City has communication problems. Folks don't realize that SUMMER is our busiest and most challenging time of the year. SUMMER is when homeless families that have been holding out in apartments without lights - give up and go to a shelter because of the heat. Or, a homeless family has been staying with friends or relatives to keep the kids in school but now its SUMMER and they're asked to leave - and live on the street - or in our shelter.

A few nights ago, IN ADDITION to the 1,000 homeless men, women and children sheltered in our facilities, 106 women and children slept in our atrium at the downtown  Star of Hope Women and Family Emergency Shelter. I believe that's a record - and a chilling sign of our times.

Help us make this a SUMMER of HOPE For these folks. Text your $10 or better yet - dig a little deeper if you can and assist us in overcoming what is now a $700,000 deficit this year.

God bless and inspire you - and thank you.

Learn about other ways to give. Visit Charitable Donations Houston

Hope in the Wilderness - Sandra's Story

Thursday, July 22, 2010 by Erika Wise

We all have our “wilderness” wanderings—much like the Israelites in the Old Testament. We have times in our lives when we have departed one place (Egypt) and are on to a new place (the Promised Land).  Many who enter the Drug Rehab Centers Houston or Battered Womens Shelter Houston are doing just that--moving from one place in their lives to another.  We hope and pray that there will not be a LONG wandering - 40 years - between our points of departure and arrival...but, truly, only God knows.  Sandra has been "wandering" for some time now...and, I want to share a bit of her story.

I met Sandra nearly two years ago. She was a resident of our Transitional Living Center and getting ready to move out after being there for fourteen months.  Sandra successfully completed the New Hope Program  , Personal Development , and the WorkFaith Connection Program. Sandra had a job, money in savings and was paying her bills consistently for the first time in her life.  She was ready for the next step.

Star of Hope's newest program (at the time), New Horizons, was exactly what Sandra needed.  Living in her own apartment, with her children, and the supportive services the program offered, Sandra was certain she would be able to begin her new life as a sober, loving mother who wanted a brighter future.

Sandra hit the ground running! She searched for better-paying jobs and was soon rewarded for her hard work. Not too soon after moving into her new home, she got a job as a housekeeper for a local hotel. She was making a higher wage AND, even before she completed her probationary period, they targeted her for management...enrolling her into Manager Training classes.  Sandra loved her work.  Then...tragedy struck...

Sandra, on her way to the bus stop to go to work, was hit by a car.  She was not injured badly, thank God. However, she was injured enough that she needed physical therapy and to be on "light duty."  Her supervisor told her there was no "light duty" assignments...and asked her to call when she was released to return to work.  But, they called her first--a month later, they called to tell her they were letting her go.  They had to fill her open position.  Sandra was hurt--physically from the car accident; and, now, emotionally from the loss of her job.

Thus began Sandra's "wilderness" walk.  In the Bible, the Lord was with the Israelites--a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). Sandra KNEW God was with her--because she had provision.  God provided for her through the New Horizons program which was able to come alongside her for a time with HER portion of the rent; the program was able to help supplement her food pantry through Food Donation Houston; and, she gained support and encouragement from the staff and other residents in the program through prayer, cards, and hugs when needed. 

Sandra's "wilderness" walk continues to this day (can you believe 15 months!!??)...she has searched and searched for jobs in Houston. She has applied in person, online and networked through several websites to find a position.  She has not been idle, she has not complained (different from the children of Israel), and she has not given up!!  During her time in the wilderness Sandra has accomplished the following:

*started her own cleaning business--SGH Cleaning Services (all that is left to do is obtain the bonding)
*served others by making sandwiches and cupcakes and taking them to Soup Kitchen Houston (at SEARCH Homeless Program)
*involved herself in the lives of her children (visiting their schools, attending counseling programs with them)
*attended Recovery Meetings, Bible Studies, and other meetings to offer HER testimony and provide encouragement to others
*helped several other families get into the Transitional Living Center when they found themselves homeless and in need of help
*recognized a desire to help others who are addicted to drugs and alcohol--she wants to be an LCDC

Sandra has been "wilderness" wandering--but, she has NOT been idle or lazy.  She has times of depression--when rejection overwhelms her--but, the "manna" comes again in the morning (Exodus 16:14) and gives her the strength to continue.  She has times when she wants to GIVE UP, but the water comes from the rock (Exodus 17:6) and refreshes her so she can fill out another application and go on another interview.

As I offer encouragement to Sandra, I keep telling her, "God has something GREAT coming to you." Sandra's Promised Land is out there...Sandra hears the Lord saying to her (just as he did Joshua) "Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9b) 

And, so we wait by the Jordan River for God's command to cross over (Joshua 3:14)...Sandra's Promised Land is waiting for her AND, while she is waiting--she finds "Hope in the Wilderness."

Blessings Abound

Thursday, July 22, 2010 by Andrew Holmes

I am taking this moment to pause, reflect and be thankful. We have been blessed this year with not only an overwhelming quantity (52) computers,  but high quality of computers.
 
Earlier this year Friendswood Community Church donated $15k to our Men's Computer Learning Center which gave us the opportunity to create a modern business environment for guys that are in the program to learn business computing skills and locate jobs.  Harper Pearson, the prestigious accounting firm, donated 12 almost new computers to be used at our House of Hope computer lab which benefits the homeless children living at our Women and Family Center. The wonderful folks at Aaron's Rental  just delivered 21 excellent computers to replace all the computers at our Transitional Living Center which is used to serve our client population that are in the long term program.

Finding good quality computers to equip both our clients and staff is a difficult task. I am just thankful that our Heavenly Father stirs the hearts of generous people for the things we desperately need. It happens over and over and I am so thankful.

God Bless,
A


Send a Note of Encouragement

Thursday, July 15, 2010 by Scott McKinley

Donations HoustonWhat would you say if you had the opportunity to share a few words of encouragement with a child receiving care at Star of Hope? This is an opportunity for you to do just that.

Next month children from Women & Family Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Center and New Horizons will head back to school.  Thanks to the generous support of friends and donors, every one of these children will step onto the bus and into their classroom with everything they need to succeed. New school uniforms, new shoes and a backpack full of supplies!

You can add to their excitement and joy by writing a short note of encouragement for the school age children at Star of Hope. Please take a moment and “Leave a comment” on this blog. We will print your note, along with others we receive, and give them to the children before the first day of school.

Thanks for caring and making a difference in these children's lives!

School Donations Houston: Ways to get involved and help a child succeed:
- Send a note of encouragement to a child on this blog.
- If you receive our July Newsletter in the mail, write a note on the enclosed backpack tag and send it back to us.
- Donate financially to provide needed items and continued care throughout the school year.
- Coordinate a drive for school supplies or other urgent needs.
- Spread the word! Tell your friends about all of these opportunities to change a child’s life.
 

Bowling for Souls Fundraiser - August 7

Monday, July 12, 2010 by Troy Williams Sr.

 

ACTS Bowling Tournament  - August 7Please partner with Star of Hope Alumni (ACTS) and give to a worthy cause. ACTS is hosting their 2nd Annual Bowling for Compassion Fundraiser on Saturday, August,7 2010 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Emerald Bowling Lanes 9307 Boone Road, Houston, TX 77099 (281) 933-6180.

Last year’s successful fundraiser was an indication that we were in God’s will. In the last twelve months ACTS Mobile Outreach Ministry has brought the Good News to thousands through music, bible studies, servant Saturday, testimonies, job search aid, transportation funds, education assistance, skills training, furniture for those in need, groceries, clothing and in many other ways. ACTS even supported an Alumnus’ mission trip to Nicaragua.

 

In order to continue to impact God’s Kingdom we need your help through your prayer, your time and your treasure.

 

Click Below to Give on Star of Hope Website: Supporting Houston Ministries with ACTS

There are 7 Ways to Give Support. May God Speak to Your Heart!
1. Pray for us
2. Volunteer your time to serve with us
3. Sponsor as many bowlers as you like for $20.00 per frame
4. Sponsor 2 bowlers for one bowler $100.00
5. Sponsor a team of 5 bowlers for one game for $250.00
6. Sponsor a team of 5 bowlers for two games for $500.00
7. Sponsor a team of 10 bowlers for two games for $1500.00

For Example:

  • A $1500 gift can cover the cost of our metro bus pass program for one year, which allows men to search for work and attend major ministry events for life change.
  • A $500 gift can purchase 20 Furniture Bank vouchers, which furnishes an efficiency apartment for four single alumni.
  • A $250 gift can sponsor books, supplies, and transportation cost to conduct a twelve weeks small group satellite Bible Study for twelve people.
To sponsor a team or to make a donation, you may donate online: ACTS "Bowling For Souls"

If you have any questions about ACTS or the bowling tournament, please send an email to acts@sohmission.org.

Thank you and God bless you for your generosity!


Star of Hope’s Love In Action Van

Friday, July 9, 2010 by Scott McKinley

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to ride along with Charles Williams in Star of Hope’s Love In Action Van.  For several years Charles has been hitting the streets of Houston and inviting the homeless to “come inside” to find hope, shelter and an opportunity for a fresh start. It was amazing to see how many of the homeless men we talked with know him by name.  As we handed out water, over and over I heard the words, “Thank you, Charles.”



One man, a Veteran from San Antonio, had been in Houston for a couple of days. As we drove him to the Star of Hope Men’s Development Center he told us he was waiting for an apartment to open up and only needed help for a couple of weeks. Someone had recommended not going to Star of Hope, “They’ll just take your name and tell you to come back in three days.” He had been sleeping in a sleeping bag on a floor. That night he slept in a bed!

Many of those Charles invites to the shelter tell him the same thing, “I'll come in a couple of days” or “Maybe next week.”  He patiently keeps going out and continues to invite. “You never know,” he says, “Today may be the day they say ‘yes.’”

Currently, Charles is giving water donated by I AM Waters Foundation. Check them out at iamwaters.com. The foundation has pledged to donate 35,000 bottles of water to Star of Hope over the summer months.

Discover ways to make this summer a Summer of Hope for Houston’s homeless:
Houston Non Profit Donations and Volunteer Opportunities
 

Texting for Hope

Wednesday, July 7, 2010 by Marilyn Fountain

Have you seen our new cab signs?  If you haven’t, be on the lookout, because they’re your invitation to participate in a Summer of Hope.   With the help of our buddies at Yellow Cab, Hope Floats all around the city, day and night, bringing the message that helping the homeless during these dog days of summer is as easy as texting “SOH” to 20222.  It’s that simple, and Star of Hope receives an immediate gift of $10.00 toward the care of our brothers and sisters who are down, for sure, but not out.

I know you have heard it before, but it’s true:  summer in Houston is the most dangerous time of year for the homeless, and it’s also the season when help for the homeless is at its lowest. However, if there is one thing we are certain of at Star of Hope, it’s that those we serve are not forsaken, even when donations are low and hands are few.  God has brought them to us to dwell in our shelters for a while, find relief from their struggles, protection from the elements and direction for their lives.  

From my perspective, that’s a win-win for everyone.  So not only am I privileged  to be a part of this amazing plan set forth by the Lord and executed by the fabulous client staff here, I am included in the invitation to the Summer of Hope. So here goes.  I’m going to let my fingers do the talking and donate $10 by texting “SOH” to 20222.  Will you join me?  But text safely.

Learn more about Summer Philanthropy Opportunities Houston at Star of Hope Mission
 

Star of Hope to Open Volunteer Staffed Call Center

Thursday, July 1, 2010 by Andrew Holmes
One of the most exciting IT projects I have ever been apart of was in 2008 when a generous donor gave the mission a substantial donation to upgrade its phone systems.  Star of Hope operates several programs at four separate campuses and we saw an opportunity to move away from disparate autonomous phone systems when VOIP became mainstream.

This technology provided the infrastructure to consolidate our existing phone equipment into one cohesive system which would provide many features to help efficiency and provide cost savings on system management and carrier charges. The new implementation also provided the means to create a central Call Center that would put those persons calling for help in touch with a caring Call Center Agent that could connect the caller to help, most often desperately needed.

On July 26, 2010 we are finally going to see the vision materialize as we open our volunteer staffed Call Center located at the Star of Hope Hope Center which is the administration building located just South of downtown.  This is going to be an awesome ministry but we still need volunteers. If you or someone you know has a few ours a month to spare serving in this new ministry, please follow this link to our High Impact Volunteer page and let us know you are interested.

Thanks so much,

AH

Supporting Houston Ministries: Learn more about different ways to volunteer and ways to give at Houston's Star of Hope Mission.

So Many Ways To Give

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 by Scott McKinley

For your convenience we have put together a list of ways you can give financial donations to Star of Hope Mission.  A little over a week ago we added mobile giving or text-to-give to the lineup. On your mobile phone, simply text "SOHM" to 20222 and donate $10 to help the poor and homeless in our community.

What are some of the other ways to give?
• Give online at www.sohmission.org
• Donate with PayPal
• Set up a monthly recurring gift (Credit Card or EFT)
• Put  your check in the mail
• Call and give by credit card over the phone
• Download the appropriate form at Ways To Give and FAX it to us
• Double your gift through your employer's matching gift program
• Donate stocks, bonds, real estate or other investments
• Remember Star of Hope and Houston's homeless in your will or bequest. Go to our Gift Planning site for more information and to get started.

Please visit Charitable Donations Houston for a full list of Ways To Give... including addresses, phone numbers and forms. Thank you for caring and giving. Your gifts truly make a difference in the lives of those we serve together. 

Star of Hope Mission is a 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.