Being a vibrant mission is not just about caring for the homeless in our city, it's about serving our friends who support our ministry. One of the ways we do this is by sharing the wonderful things that are happening in our shelters to encourage and prepare our clients for re-entering society, with obtainable goals for self-sufficiency.
As you read the blogs written by our staff and guest bloggers, your heart will be touched by the stories about life in the shelters and the experiences of the men, women and children living in them. You will find ways to connect that meet your charitable ideals and many opportunities to deepen your involvement with Star of Hope Mission.
As I am writing this, we have just experienced a night of unprecedented need at Star of Hope's downtown Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Last night, 141 families and single women were admitted to our already full family shelter.
The only place for them was on the floor on a mat, but they were grateful and came anyway. Thirty five families with their 55 children and 51 single women all came needing safety from the city streets and the heat. Can you imagine if the best thing in your day is finding a mat on the floor in a homeless shelter?
Well, they came to the right place! They are safe, loved, fed nutritious meals, had a bath and received new clothes (if they needed them)… even a toy or a book for their children. And today they will find a listening ear and a welcoming staff who will help them stabilize from their trauma, receive medical attention through the on-site Harris County Hospital Clinic… and as a private room opens up, a modest room for them and for their family.
Most importantly, we will help them to look UP and to hear once again something they haven’t heard or believed in many years… the truth that God loves them and has a very special plan for their lives. Only He can forgive their past, heal their heart’s wounds and bring light and joy back into their lives!
A former guest of Star of Hope posted on our Facebook Wall last week: “I am so grateful not to be sleeping on that floor tonight, but I am also so grateful that floor was there for me to sleep on at the beginning of my journey to recovery.” Watch this video from KHOU News 11 to see what inspired this comment.
Within the next few days of their stay with us each adult will be helped to evaluate their situation, develop a plan for this week… then next week, then for the month to come. They will be counseled for personal needs, their children will have a safe place to play and receive love and encouragement, and help with their own needs in the midst of family homelessness.
Star of Hope’s Women & Family Shelter is the largest emergency facility in Houston serving families and single women in our five county area who have become homeless. We try not to ever turn anyone away. For two years now, the shelter has functioned at near capacity every night, and has experienced significant winter and summer peak overflow needs. Last night was the highest night of need on record. We are working on broader solutions to the growing issue of homelessness in our city, and our vision is to grow from serving 1,000 homeless people per day as we do now, to serving 2,000 per day, by 2015.
Want to help? You’ll be glad you did!
The only place for them was on the floor on a mat, but they were grateful and came anyway. Thirty five families with their 55 children and 51 single women all came needing safety from the city streets and the heat. Can you imagine if the best thing in your day is finding a mat on the floor in a homeless shelter?
Well, they came to the right place! They are safe, loved, fed nutritious meals, had a bath and received new clothes (if they needed them)… even a toy or a book for their children. And today they will find a listening ear and a welcoming staff who will help them stabilize from their trauma, receive medical attention through the on-site Harris County Hospital Clinic… and as a private room opens up, a modest room for them and for their family.
Most importantly, we will help them to look UP and to hear once again something they haven’t heard or believed in many years… the truth that God loves them and has a very special plan for their lives. Only He can forgive their past, heal their heart’s wounds and bring light and joy back into their lives!
A former guest of Star of Hope posted on our Facebook Wall last week: “I am so grateful not to be sleeping on that floor tonight, but I am also so grateful that floor was there for me to sleep on at the beginning of my journey to recovery.” Watch this video from KHOU News 11 to see what inspired this comment.
Within the next few days of their stay with us each adult will be helped to evaluate their situation, develop a plan for this week… then next week, then for the month to come. They will be counseled for personal needs, their children will have a safe place to play and receive love and encouragement, and help with their own needs in the midst of family homelessness.
Star of Hope’s Women & Family Shelter is the largest emergency facility in Houston serving families and single women in our five county area who have become homeless. We try not to ever turn anyone away. For two years now, the shelter has functioned at near capacity every night, and has experienced significant winter and summer peak overflow needs. Last night was the highest night of need on record. We are working on broader solutions to the growing issue of homelessness in our city, and our vision is to grow from serving 1,000 homeless people per day as we do now, to serving 2,000 per day, by 2015.
Want to help? You’ll be glad you did!
Donate now to help with the extra summer time costs we’re incurring.
Give today at Supporting Houston Homeless Shelters
Give today at Supporting Houston Homeless Shelters
Find other ways to serve at Volunteer Opportunities Houston – Star of Hope Mission
Summer at Star of Hope is a BUSY time, with homelessness UP in our city, and the SEVERE HEAT, and HUNDREDS OF KIDS HOME FROM SCHOOL! But it’s not a hopeless, sad time for those who have found themselves homeless. Watch this video to hear about some of the things our kids are doing this summer, while their parents are working on getting their lives back together.
While we work with the parents to help them recover and plan their re-entry into everyday life, the workforce, and independent living, we take good care of the kids. Age appropriate activities and learning opportunities, and lots of fun, are all a part of summer at Star of Hope for those 18 and under. I know you agree that a good dose of "normal kids stuff" in a loving supportive environment while simultaneously teaching the young victims of homelessness about all that God has planned for them -- is a big help to the children of these disintegrated families.
Did you know, Star of Hope is one of the few providers in Houston where families can stay together when they become homeless? Unlike many other facilities, our Women & Family Emergency Shelter has small but adequate private rooms for families. Parents are so relieved that their children don’t have to be removed from them by CPS...making their homeless situation even more traumatic because of lack of shelter and program facilities that serve intact families.
We’re BUSY as ever this summer, with more people on our Houston streets than any time in recent documented history….up 25% in just the past year alone. You can make an investment into healing and uplifting one of these families this summer, by checking out the Ways to Give to “Summer of Hope”: Visit SummerOfHopeHouston.org.
P.S….in case you’re wondering: "THE BLOB" is a large inflatable tube that kids jump onto and bounce off of in a lake…it’s a lot of fun…and all a part of giving these kids an OPPORTUNITY to begin a new life!
While we work with the parents to help them recover and plan their re-entry into everyday life, the workforce, and independent living, we take good care of the kids. Age appropriate activities and learning opportunities, and lots of fun, are all a part of summer at Star of Hope for those 18 and under. I know you agree that a good dose of "normal kids stuff" in a loving supportive environment while simultaneously teaching the young victims of homelessness about all that God has planned for them -- is a big help to the children of these disintegrated families.
Did you know, Star of Hope is one of the few providers in Houston where families can stay together when they become homeless? Unlike many other facilities, our Women & Family Emergency Shelter has small but adequate private rooms for families. Parents are so relieved that their children don’t have to be removed from them by CPS...making their homeless situation even more traumatic because of lack of shelter and program facilities that serve intact families.
We’re BUSY as ever this summer, with more people on our Houston streets than any time in recent documented history….up 25% in just the past year alone. You can make an investment into healing and uplifting one of these families this summer, by checking out the Ways to Give to “Summer of Hope”: Visit SummerOfHopeHouston.org.
P.S….in case you’re wondering: "THE BLOB" is a large inflatable tube that kids jump onto and bounce off of in a lake…it’s a lot of fun…and all a part of giving these kids an OPPORTUNITY to begin a new life!
Visit SummerOfHopeHouston.org
Discover other ways to give at Star of Hope Mission - Ways to Give Houston
Discover other ways to give at Star of Hope Mission - Ways to Give Houston
Donald Driver, well known superstar wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, held a football camp at Houston’s Delmar Stadium, for underprivileged youth which included several kids from Star of Hope this past Tuesday. This was a great treat for our kids, as part of our SUMMER OF HOPE program activities here at the Mission.Donald led a challenged life on the streets of Houston as a teenager, but was changed by God’s grace, and ever since he has shown his heart for homeless kids and families. During their workout on Tuesday, they took a break and Donald talked to the kids about what’s important in his life, and encouraged them as they face their future. He told them to “always put God #1 in their life, everything they need to know comes out of books so their education is #2, and then sports are #3.” The next day, Donald attended activity classes at our Transitional Living Center, and the kids and parents here showed him some of their love and made him feel very special.
Thank you, Donald, for helping our kids! And thanks for caring about a better life for the youth of our city. Investments in these young lives pay dividends for many generations to come!
Take a look at how you can help us by being a part of SUMMER OF HOPE this summer!
Give Today at Star of Hope - Donation Opportunities Houston
In my last update, we discussed Houston’s problem of significantly rising homelessness in our city. According to the 2011 count of homeless men, women & children in Houston, this population has risen by 25% in just ONE year. In all, 13,000 people in our city are now without a place to live. And on top of that, we are experiencing the highest early-summer record heat recorded!So what is Star of Hope doing about it? A LOT! This past Friday, we launched our SUMMER OF HOPE Initiative, to lead our community in reaching out and serving those who are homeless, so that we TOGETHER help them get back on their feet. Last year, Star of Hope served over 6,500 individuals during the year, about half the daily number we have today, at a rate of 1,000 people served per day. And this year so far, we have already served almost 30% MORE individuals and families who have come for help.
Star of Hope Mission has always sought to provide not just safe shelter, but proven programs all around our city, to help those who have lost it all, to find HOPE and a reason to live once again, to feel God’s love in their lives, and to once again achieve successful, independent living as productive citizens.YOU can help us with your ONLINE GIFT right now, as we mobilize key initiatives to beat the heat and serve those on our streets!
Star of Hope’s “Love In Action Van” continues with additional daily routes around the city to distribute cold water and encouragement to street homeless, and transportation to Star of Hope for shelter. And we thank the I Am Waters Foundation for providing the 2,834 cases of water this will require.
As these come in for services, Star of Hope’s Program and Referral Staff are busier than ever serving this 30% larger population, helping them:
- meet their immediate needs
- get medical and family services partner referrals
- work through issues to restore their lives, income and a place to live
Can you help us today, with significant increase in needs in Houston this summer? Summer is when we need your help most, with the extra expenses of 300 children home from school we serve each day, and so many more adults needing help... all at a time when our donations are at an annual low due to summertime.Most importantly, please keep us and all of these who come in your prayers. And make this a summer someone will remember as their SUMMER OF HOPE!!
“THE KING WILL REPLY, I TELL YOU THE TRUTH, WHATEVER YOU DID FOR ONE
OF THE LEAST OF THESE BROTHERS OF MINE, YOU DID FOR ME.”
-- spoken by Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 25:40
OF THE LEAST OF THESE BROTHERS OF MINE, YOU DID FOR ME.”
-- spoken by Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 25:40
You may have seen the story "Homeless Population Keeps Increasing" in the Houston Chronicle this week, the results of the 2011 Homeless Count for our city. It's no surprise to me that the number of homeless people in Houston has risen by 25% in just one year.If you've been following my blog the past two years, you know that Star of Hope has served record crowds since 2009, with the greatest overflow occurring at our Women & Family Emergency Shelter downtown. We have averaged 50 per night on the floor, with peaks of up to 118 for the past two calendar years. It's clear that the economy and all the disasters around us are displacing more and more families.
I must say, the most troubling number released yesterday, however, is the 10,933 school age CHILDREN in Houston, who are documented by our Houston area public school systems to be living homeless.
It's clear we need to do more. For some families, housing and job assistance will help get them back on their feet and living independently again. For most however, the causes of their homelessness run much deeper, and they need more comprehensive services to recover.
Star of Hope has been serving Houston's homeless continuously for 103 years now...it is Houston's oldest and largest ministry for our most needy Houstonians. We have learned so much about how to lead our guests into a new and fulfilling life. And we are working harder than ever in our history to expand our services and partnerships to reach the growing numbers of those in need.
The good news is that Today Is A Day Of Hope for thousands of these in our community, as Star of Hope and over 100 other service partners in our community reach out to help them!
Want to help? Go to our website and check out Volunteer Opportunities, or make a financial gift today. Summer is here and the numbers needing help are extremely high.
Houston, we have a problem. But together, with God's help and blessing, we can make a major, and for many, an eternal difference!
Get involved with Star of Hope Mission in helping Houston's homeless men, women and children today!
Visit Supporting Homeless Shelters Houston.
Visit Supporting Homeless Shelters Houston.
Last week on “National Lemonade Day”, 8 year old Charlotte diligently prepared her lemonade stand for the day, as did so many other children around the country. But Charlotte’s motive was not just about learning to run her business and make a profit, it was much bigger than that. You see, Charlotte was determined to help the homeless in our city with her profits. And she donated not just some, but ALL she made to charity... $65 to the Star of Hope. This will feed one person for two weeks! All of us who have children, or work with children, know how pure their hearts can be, and how clearly they see the right thing to do so many times. You see, for some time now, Charlotte has seen the same homeless man on the streets, caring for his two dogs…Applejacks and a companion stray. “She does not understand how someone who cares so much for these two animals, does not receive the same care for other people”, her mom said. So she decided to do something about it, on Lemonade Day!
God’s Word tells us in Matthew 18: 3-4: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Are you touched by Charlotte’s wreckless abandon to help someone God loves just as much as he loves us? I am. And if you are, I encourage you to give a gift right now….a gift of $65.00…..and MATCH CHARLOTTE’S wholehearted, all out gift, to help the homeless men, women & children in our city today.
It won’t be nearly as painful for us to give of our resources, as it was for Charlotte to work an entire day and even more, and give it ALL. But if enough of us MATCH HER GIFT, we can make this a Summer of Hope for Houston’s Homeless to find a new life, like never before!
Better yet, feed one person all summer long, $1.60 per meal for 4 months, for just $520. I hope you will give wholeheartedly today, as you are led!
Mother’s Day is coming up next week…Sunday, May 8th! In preparation for that, one of my favorite events for our children here at Star of Hope is being held next week at our Transitional Living Center, for all of our client’s children. It’s a fun afternoon hosted by Trees of Hope, our affiliate which has been serving Star of Hope for over 20 years now.After school, all the kids will gather in our Chapel and have a fun afternoon making crafts and preparing gift bags to give their moms for Mother's Day.
At this event last year, each child had their picture taken to give mom as a gift. These were really nice "portrait" type photos, and in their frames, decorated by the children, made an especially nice gift. For many of these kids, this was the FIRST photo of themselves they had ever been able to give to their mom!
Later in the afternoon, when the parents came in, there was so much joy in the faces of the children as they presented their gifts…and their portrait, to their mothers. They were so proud and excited to give such a special "gift of themselves". Can’t you just picture it? I can’t wait to see what gift the Trees of Hope volunteers will help our children make this year!Summertime at Star of Hope is all about the Kids… and it is such a special time! We have over 200 kids with us, home from school all summer. This gives us all day to work with them, provide enriching activities, teach them from God’s Word, and help them with their own issues in overcoming homelessness.
Please join us as a partner and make this a Summer of Hope by volunteering, making a donation of needed items, or giving financially to help at this very special time of year!
Easter is just a week away, and everyone at Star of Hope is already rejoicing!We see the transformational power of Easter at work in lives every single day, as God brings forgiveness, healing and restoration to thousands in our community each year through the ministries of Star of Hope.
This past Sunday, 2,000 members of Second Baptist Church danced at Discovery Green in downtown Houston, joyfully celebrating Easter and singing a special song commemorating the resurrection of Christ. And at the conclusion, they “danced their shoes off” and donated hundreds of them to the Star of Hope Mission. We are so grateful for this new supply of new shoes for those in our community who are recovering from homelessness at Star of Hope’s four facilities around town.
Thank you, Second Baptist Family, and all of the churches in Houston who volunteer their time, provide worship services, do donations drives, and welcome Star of Hope Clients into their church activities. All of the body of Christ in Houston celebrates new life this Easter!
If you want to volunteer or get involved in Star of Hope’s ministries to homeless men, women and children in Houston, please visit Volunteer Opportunities Houston.
As everyone in Houston knows by now, it’s Final Four® time! The NCAA® Men’s Final Four Basketball Championship games will be played here April 2-4. But what you may not know is that beginning next Monday, March 28th, and throughout the week preceding the games, the NCAA® will be serving Houston’s youth and underprivileged families in some very special ways.
This coming Monday, hundreds of residents of Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter downtown, will have their feet washed, and new socks and tennis shoes fitted on their feet personally by local coaches and over 90 volunteers. Parents and their children ages 2 and up, all of whom are experiencing homelessness in our city and are presently residing at our Family Shelter, will receive this special treat.
Star of Hope thanks the NCAA®, Samaritan’s Feet, and Feed the Hungry, who together are providing these services on Monday for our residents, and at three other locations around our city on Tuesday through Thursday.
Star of Hope serves 1,000 homeless men, women and children daily, through its four locations and our many partner organizations around Houston. If you’ve never served with us, we invite you to come for a visit or VOLUNTEER with us soon.
There are numerous great free events that are part of Final Four Week here in Houston that you and your family can enjoy. I encourage you find out more at the Final Four website. And thanks, NCAA®, for the great week of service and fun for our community.
This coming Monday, hundreds of residents of Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter downtown, will have their feet washed, and new socks and tennis shoes fitted on their feet personally by local coaches and over 90 volunteers. Parents and their children ages 2 and up, all of whom are experiencing homelessness in our city and are presently residing at our Family Shelter, will receive this special treat.
Star of Hope thanks the NCAA®, Samaritan’s Feet, and Feed the Hungry, who together are providing these services on Monday for our residents, and at three other locations around our city on Tuesday through Thursday.
Star of Hope serves 1,000 homeless men, women and children daily, through its four locations and our many partner organizations around Houston. If you’ve never served with us, we invite you to come for a visit or VOLUNTEER with us soon.
There are numerous great free events that are part of Final Four Week here in Houston that you and your family can enjoy. I encourage you find out more at the Final Four website. And thanks, NCAA®, for the great week of service and fun for our community.
If you’ve ever volunteered at one of Star of Hope Mission’s four locations around Houston, you no doubt have personal stories of how your effort helped and touched the lives of some of those you served while you were here.
Another great part of volunteering is getting to work side by side with our dedicated staff!
Recently, Houston’s own Dana Tyson, Sunny 99.1 Morning Show host, came to our Women & Family Emergency Shelter as an undercover volunteer to do a promotional spot for ABC’s new show, “Secret Millionaire.” Watch the video to enjoy the experience she had as a volunteer and meet one of our very special staff members.
Come volunteer with us soon. You’ll help someone who really needs help, and you’ll be blessed in the process!
Another great part of volunteering is getting to work side by side with our dedicated staff!
Recently, Houston’s own Dana Tyson, Sunny 99.1 Morning Show host, came to our Women & Family Emergency Shelter as an undercover volunteer to do a promotional spot for ABC’s new show, “Secret Millionaire.” Watch the video to enjoy the experience she had as a volunteer and meet one of our very special staff members.
Come volunteer with us soon. You’ll help someone who really needs help, and you’ll be blessed in the process!
Get involved at Community Service Volunteers Houston
“Star of Hope in Houston Texas, You're truly changing lives, not with lip service but with hope, love & opportunity, amazing job. Thank You!” @LeighAnneTuohy
These words were posted on Twitter last Saturday by LeighAnne Tuohy, following Star of Hope’s Annual “Because You Love” Banquet the night before. It was our best attended banquet ever with 1700+ donors, corporate sponsors and community partners in attendance. Sean and LeighAnne Tuohy, the couple who inspired the movie “The Blind Side”, were our guest speakers.This week, we are hearing stories from those in attendance who were touched in a special way by the evening’s activities. We always work to educate and inspire. We want to educate folks on what homelessness is, who it is currently affecting in Houston, and how they can help. And we seek to inspire through videos and live testimonies of clients of Star of Hope… who have seen their lives completely turned around by the power of God’s love and by the opportunity they receive to start a new life while at Star of Hope.
The number of homeless families in our community doubled in just one year, from 2009 to 2010. With your help in 2010:
- Star of Hope’s family of ministries graduated 46% more clients from our programs
- 44% more completed and were awarded high school equivalency GEDs
- 40% more Clients found jobs, than in 2009
- We also were excited to announce that during 2010 we saw 629 households restored into independent living in the Houston community
All of this could not have been done without YOU, “The Star of Hope Family”…our donors, volunteers, church friends, partner service providers and corporate supporters.
Thanks for all you do in the many individual ways you serve along side of us at Star of Hope. And if you’d like more information, visit www.sohmission.org right now and find out how you can become involved in this exciting ministry in our city!
It doesn’t come often, but we’re all finding ourselves in 25 degree weather and on our own “Cold Weather Alert” this week! Heavy coats, covered plants, rolling power outages…and rain and snow on the way before the weekend. Just a short walk from our car to the door for us...but can you imagine what it’s like for those who are on the streets?
Star of Hope is here for the homeless of Houston, and despite our own rolling power outages, our staff is working hard to accommodate and help the overflow crowds who are coming in for help. This is a great opportunity for us to introduce them to the many programs and services that can help them turn their lives around, and begin again. Take a look at some of the efforts that are underway!
Star of Hope is here for the homeless of Houston, and despite our own rolling power outages, our staff is working hard to accommodate and help the overflow crowds who are coming in for help. This is a great opportunity for us to introduce them to the many programs and services that can help them turn their lives around, and begin again. Take a look at some of the efforts that are underway!
We are grateful for the men and women who have made the decision to seek shelter and hope in our facilities, but our hearts are still with the ones on the streets tonight who have not yet reached out to Star of Hope.
Learn more about how you can help Houston's homeless men, women and children with Star of Hope Mission. Visit:
- Donation Opportunities Houston
- Volunteer Opportunities Houston
- Urgent and Ongoing Needs
During the unusually cold weather we had in Houston last week, Channel 39 did a news story on a homeless man named Anthony and his decision to come in from the cold on Star of Hope’s “Love in Action” Van. Anthony is why the Star of Hope is here...to give men, women and children who become homeless - for whatever reason - warmth, safety, a good meal, and most of all a place to begin once again the journey to wholeness and independent living.
Is Anthony worth your volunteering and donations, and all of our time? You bet he is! Click on the Video to watch Anthony’s story:
Is Anthony worth your volunteering and donations, and all of our time? You bet he is! Click on the Video to watch Anthony’s story:
In just two days, we’ll be closing out 2010 and celebrating the arrival of a new year, 2011!
As I reflect on 2010, my thoughts crystallize on God’s amazing blessings to THEM, through YOU. YOU have enabled the GIFT OF HOPE to be shared with THEM…the thousands of Houstonians, who in 2010 have found themselves in the unique life situation of being homeless, and have turned to Star of Hope for life-transforming help. And I am profoundly thankful, this 29th day of December 2010, for your sharing of this journey with us, as YOU help restore these precious lives.
THANK YOU SO MUCH…for your gifts, time, thoughts, and prayers! All of us at STAR OF HOPE appreciate your help and partnership in this incredible ministry of life changing hope, healing and restoration for all who come seeking it. This has been A YEAR OF MIRACLES, and 2011 promises to be also!
If you are contemplating any final year-end giving of your resources before December 31st, just click to give online and help us serve the many who will come in need of our help tomorrow at Star of Hope. Not just a "hot and cot" or a "soup kitchen," but so much more (watch the video below)…food for the mind, rest and revelation for the soul, and most importantly…the healing for the heart through this amazing ministry, Star of Hope.
We love our partnership with you, and look forward to another amazing year of ministry together in 2011!
Blessings and best wishes to you and yours for a rich and fulfilling New Year as we journey together.
As I reflect on 2010, my thoughts crystallize on God’s amazing blessings to THEM, through YOU. YOU have enabled the GIFT OF HOPE to be shared with THEM…the thousands of Houstonians, who in 2010 have found themselves in the unique life situation of being homeless, and have turned to Star of Hope for life-transforming help. And I am profoundly thankful, this 29th day of December 2010, for your sharing of this journey with us, as YOU help restore these precious lives.
THANK YOU SO MUCH…for your gifts, time, thoughts, and prayers! All of us at STAR OF HOPE appreciate your help and partnership in this incredible ministry of life changing hope, healing and restoration for all who come seeking it. This has been A YEAR OF MIRACLES, and 2011 promises to be also!
If you are contemplating any final year-end giving of your resources before December 31st, just click to give online and help us serve the many who will come in need of our help tomorrow at Star of Hope. Not just a "hot and cot" or a "soup kitchen," but so much more (watch the video below)…food for the mind, rest and revelation for the soul, and most importantly…the healing for the heart through this amazing ministry, Star of Hope.
We love our partnership with you, and look forward to another amazing year of ministry together in 2011!
Blessings and best wishes to you and yours for a rich and fulfilling New Year as we journey together.
Give hope to Houston's homeless men, women and children with your year-end gift. Give online today at Donating To Charitable Organizations Houston.
Well, Christmas is just around the corner, just a few days away. Our blogging team has been posting amazing stories for the past 25 days, of changed lives and personal miracles, here at the Star of Hope. Take a look at our other "25 Days of Christmas Miracles" Updates. It gives me chill bumps to think about all that God does through you, who help and serve here at Christmas, as He uses this sacred time of year to touch unusually open hearts with His Love.Just in the past 25 days, we’ve seen two sisters, who are teenagers in a family served by Star of Hope for several years now and who are seniors in High School, both accepted to attend college next fall. Both will be attending The University of Texas, one in Austin and the other in Odessa! What a huge blessing for any family, especially one which has had to overcome great difficulties.
We have seen five, 9-10 year old Cub Scouts raise enough money to provide 2,000 Christmas meals here at Star of Hope. See their story in our Star of Hope News Room. The meaning of Christmas to them?...helping others!At our Women & Family Emergency Shelter and our Transitional Living Center Tree Lightings, we witnessed a chorus of families, recovering from homelessness, sing Christmas songs with great joy and thanksgiving. And our Men’s Development Center Christmas Commencement will be filled with the voices of men singing of God’s love for us through Christmas later this week.
Volunteers have filled our Christmas Workshop and carefully wrapped presents for our Clients, and donors are bringing blankets, clothes food and financial gifts. Parties and gift cards for our teens have been given. Pajamas and books for every 6-12 year old, carefully purchased and prepared by a local company.
I could go on and on. But what do you think is the greatest Christmas miracle of all? I believe it’s the way God chose to reveal himself to us…through a baby, His only Son…so simple, so heartfelt…everyone who chooses to believe in Him, can receive God’s love and forgiveness, a home in Heaven, and a purpose for their life here on earth. That’s it….God provided for us through His Love.Thank you each and every one for your help, love and prayers for our homeless families this year. It has been another record breaking year of services in Houston with the economy the way it is. And we have gladly served, with your amazing help, through these times!
If you would like to help us financially, we’re still working to raise the final $1 million of our December goal, so we can continue to provide and serve in 2011. You can click on this link right now and make your donation safely and conveniently.
Blessings to you and your family this Christmas…may you personally feel God’s amazing love, forgiveness, and peace in your life this Christmas!
Help Houston's homeless men, women and families with Star of Hope now, by
Donating To Charitable Organizations Houston.
Christmastime is such a fun and amazing time here at Star of Hope. Granted it’s the busiest time of the year for our staff, but what makes it so special is the way God works through this Sacred and Holy Season to touch lives all around us!
An “Angel” called me earlier this week, to tell me he wanted to bring a gift to Star of Hope for Christmas. He had bought a cashier’s check, because he doesn’t have any credit or a bank account, so he wanted to deliver it in person. As we talked, I learned he works at a grocery store here in Houston, and didn’t have a car, so he was planning to ride the bus to bring his check to us. I knew right then he was one of God’s special blessings we receive each year for the benefit of our Clients at Star of Hope! You see, he said, “I want to help those less fortunate than me!”
Every gift of your time or financial resources, or of prayers for our Clients, their children, and our Staff, are all “Angel Calls” right from the heart of God. And Christmas becomes Christmas all over again!
You know, I think even Jesus himself shows up here and there, and walks among us… bringing Joy to our Clients. You can see it in the Christmas Programs held here, all the gifts brought by caring Houstonians, toys, clothing, food, you name it…and for just a while, our “less fortunate” become the most blessed and happy people in Houston!
Thanks for helping out at Christmas, and allowing God’s love to flow through you. You are a true “Angel Call” for so many.
An “Angel” called me earlier this week, to tell me he wanted to bring a gift to Star of Hope for Christmas. He had bought a cashier’s check, because he doesn’t have any credit or a bank account, so he wanted to deliver it in person. As we talked, I learned he works at a grocery store here in Houston, and didn’t have a car, so he was planning to ride the bus to bring his check to us. I knew right then he was one of God’s special blessings we receive each year for the benefit of our Clients at Star of Hope! You see, he said, “I want to help those less fortunate than me!”
Every gift of your time or financial resources, or of prayers for our Clients, their children, and our Staff, are all “Angel Calls” right from the heart of God. And Christmas becomes Christmas all over again!
You know, I think even Jesus himself shows up here and there, and walks among us… bringing Joy to our Clients. You can see it in the Christmas Programs held here, all the gifts brought by caring Houstonians, toys, clothing, food, you name it…and for just a while, our “less fortunate” become the most blessed and happy people in Houston!
Thanks for helping out at Christmas, and allowing God’s love to flow through you. You are a true “Angel Call” for so many.
Help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope Mission by donating online at Charity Houston.
Visit Volunteer Jobs Houston to find volunteer opportunities of interest to you.
Read More "25 Days of Christmas Miracles"
Visit Volunteer Jobs Houston to find volunteer opportunities of interest to you.
Read More "25 Days of Christmas Miracles"
Star of Hope’s Men’s Development Center is a busy place right now. With the chilling temperatures at night, more men are filling the facility into overflow. And we are glad to serve them, with a warm meal, a warm dry place to sleep, a shower, fresh clothes and words of God’s love for them.
But there is another chilling element at work in many of these men besides the cold air outside. For a third or more of our 300+ men living here, the chill and haunt of past military combat trauma chills them to the bone, and affects their daily life, trapped inside years after they have returned home from combat. That chill is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and it is the ‘signature’ wound of the war on terrorism.
Just recently, at the conclusion of one of our Trauma Care group meetings, led by the PTSD Foundation of America and hosted at Star of Hope, a Vietnam Veteran approached us. He was injured in combat, and now walks slowly with the aid of a cane…his speech soft and slow. Tears coursed down this man’s cheeks as he shared with us his guilt – a guilt he has carried for over 40 years. One horrific day in Vietnam, he found himself in the midst of chaos and confusion with bullets flying and villagers falling in death. In the unfathomable moment, he realized that he had taken the life of an innocent, young girl, probably not yet 10 years old. Now in a small room with just a few fellow Veterans listening, he felt safe enough to share this very dark day in his life, and for the first time began to feel a sense of forgiveness in his life. The Star of Hope, a few fellow soldiers, and the good news of God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ set this man on a new path…free from guilt and filled with God’s grace and mercy.
On another day, a Veteran who has been attending this same support group, opened up and began telling his story after weeks of just listening. His story was typical, but he had progressed to the place where God was real to him. He was ready to work again, but his felony record was holding him back. A “Second Chance Employer”, one who was willing the give him a second chance, gave him a job application, and he has been on his new job now for several weeks. On a recent Sunday, he was invited to share his story at a church, and his two young sons were with him and able to hear their dad tell of God’s forgiveness and redeeming love. We are now praying for his marriage and family to be restored. And we know that all things are possible with God!
Do you know a Veteran this Christmastime who needs a second chance? Respond to this blog or email david.maulsby@ptsdusa.org and together maybe another Christmas miracle will happen!
Read more 25 Days of Christmas Miracles!
Learn more about how your support of Star of Hope helps Homeless Veterans Houston and donate today at Men's Shelter Donation Houston.
My family and I are big fans of Hallmark TV Christmas movies, and we were watching a new one this past weekend called “Mrs. Miracle." Since joining Star of Hope, I have been amazed at the miracles that constantly happen here. This movie inspired me to write to you over the next few weeks, and tell you about Christmas miracles happening at Star of Hope as they happen, during this amazing season of celebration of the most precious miracle of all…the gift of God’s Son, Jesus Christ.
Well, our first miracle of the season happened last Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving. We were celebrating at our Men’s Development Center the graduation of men commencing from the Spiritual Recovery Program, for that month, and enjoying a Thanksgiving meal too. I am always moved to tears as I hear the graduating men tell the stories of their lives, how they fell to rock bottom, and how God has given them Purpose and Hope through Faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. Six men told their powerful stories last Thursday…and I tell you, they were miraculous! What a way to start the holidays!Then, right afterwards, I traveled over to our Women & Family Emergency Shelter to participate in their Thanksgiving program and meal. Just inside the front door, I was met by Ed, our Director of that facility. He greeted me with the biggest smile I’ve seen on his face, in the 2 ½ years I’ve known him. He said, “Hank, you won’t believe it. We have just finished our Thanksgiving service, and 12 guests of this shelter accepted Christ…just a few minutes ago!!!”
So Christmas started early for us this year, with 18 lives…totally at rock bottom and without hope or a way out, now celebrating with us on the day before Thanksgiving 2010, because they have given their lives to Christ and found new life and hope in Jesus Christ, God's Son.
I’d like to write to you every few days, to share the miracles as thy happen at Star of Hope, during these days leading to Christmas. Many of you -- hundreds and hundreds -- are volunteering with us in the coming weeks, conducting toy or clothing drives, doing projects in our facilities, hosting special guest services, or raising funds to help provide for our guests’ daily needs. AND, I’d like to invite you to share the miracles YOU SEE while you are here or as you engage with the Star of Hope! I know these will inspire ALL of us to have a giving spirit in all we do this Christmas. To share your experiences, you can comment on this Blog, or email me directly at hrush@sohmission.org.
Keep an eye out every few days for updates on how “The 25 Days of Christmas” are going, here at the Star of Hope. Thank you for your love and caring, and for your special help at Christmastime. And if you have a chance, watch “Mrs. Miracle”…she’ll bring a sparkle to your holiday!
Learn how you can join Star of Hope in helping Houston's homeless men,
women and children by visiting Charitable Donations Houston or Volunteer Opportunities Houston.
women and children by visiting Charitable Donations Houston or Volunteer Opportunities Houston.
Finding oneself out of options and resources for life, and facing homelessness at Thanksgiving is a daunting thought for us to imagine. And yet, around 50,000 people in Houston have experienced this life tragedy in just the last 12 months.
Here at Star of Hope, we see miracles every day in the lives of people who come for help. Not just a few, but thousands who come our way each year find a new faith and a new hope, and with that… healing, forgiveness and a new direction for their lives!
This past Thursday, at our Graduation Ceremony at Star of Hope’s Transitional Living Center (TLC), I heard a graduate’s story I’d like to share with you. She came first to our Women & Family Emergency Shelter downtown for shelter and safety and was led to our Transitional Living Center, where she has been for the past 9 months. She had faced a life of fear, and had difficulty facing daily challenges. Through much of her 20’s and 30’s she faced isolation, feelings of emptiness, and frequently turned to destructive behaviors. But it was the sudden, unexpected death of her mother that slowly drained her of any inner strength to cope with her fragile emotions.
Things began to change for her once she entered TLC. She completed the New Hope addiction recovery program, which gave her “a new hope, and a belief that in this second effort, I can recover.” She then attended our Personal Development program, which opened many doors for her. She received one on one counseling to help her cope with her mother’s death, and build essential life and job skills for a new tomorrow.
Through Star of Hope’s partnership with The WorkFaith Connection, a Christian job search program, she learned important skills and prepared for the workplace once again. Many doors were opened for her, but as she stated: “The most important door that has opened, is the one to my heart—I have opened myself to the light and love of God for the first time in my 38 years. I have realized that today in my life, I welcome change, and that is nothing less than a miracle.” She further told us that through her AA classes and her church, she is gaining “a new love and appreciation for all my blessings from God.”
This Thanksgiving all of us at Star of Hope say “Thank You” for your gifts of time and resources, and most importantly for your prayers for all those in our care. May you and yours enjoy a Happy Thanksgiving!
Here at Star of Hope, we see miracles every day in the lives of people who come for help. Not just a few, but thousands who come our way each year find a new faith and a new hope, and with that… healing, forgiveness and a new direction for their lives!
This past Thursday, at our Graduation Ceremony at Star of Hope’s Transitional Living Center (TLC), I heard a graduate’s story I’d like to share with you. She came first to our Women & Family Emergency Shelter downtown for shelter and safety and was led to our Transitional Living Center, where she has been for the past 9 months. She had faced a life of fear, and had difficulty facing daily challenges. Through much of her 20’s and 30’s she faced isolation, feelings of emptiness, and frequently turned to destructive behaviors. But it was the sudden, unexpected death of her mother that slowly drained her of any inner strength to cope with her fragile emotions.
Things began to change for her once she entered TLC. She completed the New Hope addiction recovery program, which gave her “a new hope, and a belief that in this second effort, I can recover.” She then attended our Personal Development program, which opened many doors for her. She received one on one counseling to help her cope with her mother’s death, and build essential life and job skills for a new tomorrow.
Through Star of Hope’s partnership with The WorkFaith Connection, a Christian job search program, she learned important skills and prepared for the workplace once again. Many doors were opened for her, but as she stated: “The most important door that has opened, is the one to my heart—I have opened myself to the light and love of God for the first time in my 38 years. I have realized that today in my life, I welcome change, and that is nothing less than a miracle.” She further told us that through her AA classes and her church, she is gaining “a new love and appreciation for all my blessings from God.”
Today her relationship with her three daughters is thriving, and she has true friends who appreciate her for who she is, not for what she can give them. She is thankful for the staff at the Star of Hope’s TLC. As she said: “I am surrounded by strong Christian role models, who, through prayer, Bible study and discussion, are showing me a new way to live.” She thanks the staff for starting every day in prayer and thanksgiving…for much needed help on her computer skills…for help realizing that she is a kind and intelligent person, and for guidance on her journey of recovery.
This Thanksgiving all of us at Star of Hope say “Thank You” for your gifts of time and resources, and most importantly for your prayers for all those in our care. May you and yours enjoy a Happy Thanksgiving!
Homeless Vets celebrated everyday at Star of Hope Men’s Development Center
Today is Veteran’s Day, and as I’m writing this blog, I’m reminded of the long heritage Star of Hope Mission has had in serving our Veterans who become homeless. Way back in 1945-1946, Star of Hope was serving hundreds of Veterans each month, coming through Houston with no place to stay. Ever since then, Star of Hope has proudly served Vets who have become homeless and need help in re-establishing their lives, after their service to our country.
Today, we are serving 100-150 Veterans per day, from the Vietnam, Korean, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan wars, with recovery programs and life changing help for a better life. In our VIP Program, we serve 150-200 per year, in partnership with Houston’s Veteran’s Administration to help with their physical and mental health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and addiction recovery needs. Our men in the PTSD group meet twice each week, offered at Star of Hope in partnership with Military Ministries, an arm of PTSD Foundation of America.
When I attend any Veteran’s program at church or in our community, my eyes well up with tears, as I think of the many men I’ve met here, who, without the Star of Hope, would be on the streets of Houston today. They are not forgotten! And they feel God’s love everyday they are with us. Star of Hope is “Home to the Brave”…and my hat is off to the great staff of men and women at our Men’s Development Center in Downtown Houston who faithfully serve these who have sacrificially served all of us in defending our country.
If you’ve never been to any of Star of Hope’s mission locations, I invite you to come and tour, get involved and volunteer! You can help Veterans and many others with your talents to have a better life, renew their faith and strength, and once again, stand tall as Americans. Come and join us, you’ll be glad you did!
Learn more about star of Hope at Mens Shelter Donation Houston and Houston Volunteer Opportunities.
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