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.
When it comes to serving and volunteering in creative ways, I don’t think anyone is more creative than the Boy Scouts. Last year Troop 46 donated over 500 lbs. of smoked brisket to Star of Hope Mission. They need your help to do it again this year.The troop is raising money to send scouts to camp this summer, but they are also giving back to the community. One of the scout parents, Sandeep Seth says, “What's most special about our brisket sale, however, is that we give people the option to donate their brisket to the Star of Hope.”
The scouts will be cooking April 28 – May 1. Visit Troop 46 to get all the details and place your order.
Thanks Troop 46!
Discover more ways you can help at Supporting Homeless Shelters Houston
I have consistently had some place safe to sleep. I have consistently been fed. I have consistently been loved. I have consistently made mistakes and have been forgiven and accepted. I have consistently been made to feel valued….and I have consistently forgotten that some people don’t have any form of healthy consistency in their own lives.
Star of Hope can’t save the world, but it can give Houston’s Homeless men, women and children some healthy consistencies no matter what stage of life they are in. Most importantly Star of Hope teaches its clients they are valued and after their time here how to create stability making hope a reality.
Last week I had the privilege to talk with an amazing Star of Hope Virtual Volunteer. Her spirit is as beautiful and unique as she is. She is vulnerable. She is strong. She is courageous. Zan grew up in an inconsistent home environment living with several different family members during varying stages of her life. At age 17 she found herself homeless with a new born son. Desiring more consistency for her son than she was able to give she sent him to live with other members of her family.
Zan personally continued wandering in and out of homelessness into her 20’s. I wish I could tell you that she found Star of Hope early on and everything changed…forever. I wish I could tell you that we made a difference in her life or that I made a difference in her life. However, nothing I did nor did anything I am affiliated with change Zan’s life. Zan did not find Star of Hope when she needed us most. She had to seek self soothing and self guidance and in turn her life lessons were learned by trial and error. Zan did the best she could to establish consistency in her life all by herself.
Today, Zan’s life like mine is far from perfect, but you can clearly see God’s redemptive love in her story. Through, this faith and courage God has taught her to give back to her community in whatever way she can. Zan lovingly shares with others via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn that they do not have to go through homelessness, abuse, addiction all alone. They can find value and love at Star of Hope. Zan advocates for Star of Hope… all hours of the day and night…and she makes a difference by sharing what an amazing nonprofit Houston has! Zan knows how helpful it would have been to have had a solid place like “ Star of Hope Mission” included in her story early on.
Zan , thank you for giving hope to others.
So, many people think they have to wait until their life looks perfect to give back to their community. They wait until they have the right amount in their savings account or until they have 3 hours to give instead of 15 minutes. Star of Hope is asking you where you are to make a difference and together we will watch God bless your offering. Whether, it is a prayer, joining Star of Hope on Facebook, working in the kitchen, donating 50 cents together, we can give Houston Homeless a consistent environment where there is no question if they are fed, loved and valued.
Together, wherever you are in life let's show Houston Homeless they do not have to do this alone. We are here for them with Men and Women Drug Rehab Centers, Battered Women Shelters, Childcare facilities and Soup Kitchens. Refuse to let one person be forgotten.
Star of Hope can’t save the world, but it can give Houston’s Homeless men, women and children some healthy consistencies no matter what stage of life they are in. Most importantly Star of Hope teaches its clients they are valued and after their time here how to create stability making hope a reality.
Last week I had the privilege to talk with an amazing Star of Hope Virtual Volunteer. Her spirit is as beautiful and unique as she is. She is vulnerable. She is strong. She is courageous. Zan grew up in an inconsistent home environment living with several different family members during varying stages of her life. At age 17 she found herself homeless with a new born son. Desiring more consistency for her son than she was able to give she sent him to live with other members of her family.Zan personally continued wandering in and out of homelessness into her 20’s. I wish I could tell you that she found Star of Hope early on and everything changed…forever. I wish I could tell you that we made a difference in her life or that I made a difference in her life. However, nothing I did nor did anything I am affiliated with change Zan’s life. Zan did not find Star of Hope when she needed us most. She had to seek self soothing and self guidance and in turn her life lessons were learned by trial and error. Zan did the best she could to establish consistency in her life all by herself.
Today, Zan’s life like mine is far from perfect, but you can clearly see God’s redemptive love in her story. Through, this faith and courage God has taught her to give back to her community in whatever way she can. Zan lovingly shares with others via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn that they do not have to go through homelessness, abuse, addiction all alone. They can find value and love at Star of Hope. Zan advocates for Star of Hope… all hours of the day and night…and she makes a difference by sharing what an amazing nonprofit Houston has! Zan knows how helpful it would have been to have had a solid place like “ Star of Hope Mission” included in her story early on.
Zan , thank you for giving hope to others.
So, many people think they have to wait until their life looks perfect to give back to their community. They wait until they have the right amount in their savings account or until they have 3 hours to give instead of 15 minutes. Star of Hope is asking you where you are to make a difference and together we will watch God bless your offering. Whether, it is a prayer, joining Star of Hope on Facebook, working in the kitchen, donating 50 cents together, we can give Houston Homeless a consistent environment where there is no question if they are fed, loved and valued.
Together, wherever you are in life let's show Houston Homeless they do not have to do this alone. We are here for them with Men and Women Drug Rehab Centers, Battered Women Shelters, Childcare facilities and Soup Kitchens. Refuse to let one person be forgotten.
Discover ways to get involved and help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope.
Visit Volunteer Jobs Houston to get started today!
Visit Volunteer Jobs Houston to get started today!
Popular radio personality Dana Tyson (Sunny 99.1) was asked by the ABC network to produce a "local" version of the new national reality TV hit Secret Millionaire. The national version features a millionaire who goes undercover doing homeless volunteer work in a charitable institution. At the end of the show - the "volunteer", moved by the charity and love that he is surrounded with - reveals himself and announces that he is donating to charitable organizations. He then writes a stunned staff a large check.
In the local version, Dana and her camera crew went to a Houston Emergency Shelter - the Star of Hope Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Under the guise of taping a program called "a day in the life of a DJ" Dana joined volunteers preparing and serving lunch for about 100 homeless women and children. A few hours later - as the staff was cleaning up - Dana announced that she was so taken by the hard work and dedication of the volunteers that she felt compelled to help out financially as well. She then presented Star of Hope with a $2500 check from the ABC Network.
Watch the "final cut' of this great video:
In the local version, Dana and her camera crew went to a Houston Emergency Shelter - the Star of Hope Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Under the guise of taping a program called "a day in the life of a DJ" Dana joined volunteers preparing and serving lunch for about 100 homeless women and children. A few hours later - as the staff was cleaning up - Dana announced that she was so taken by the hard work and dedication of the volunteers that she felt compelled to help out financially as well. She then presented Star of Hope with a $2500 check from the ABC Network.
Watch the "final cut' of this great video:
Learn more about Star of Hope Mission and Homeless Services Houston
Sometimes, I get a chance to get out of my normal day to day IT world and get to help out on video. A few months back one of our wonderful donors/volunteers, Cookie Joe, and her business partner, Tran Pham Rich , (owners of Cookie Joe's School of Dancin' located in Sugar Land, Texas) donated the money to rebuild and equip our intake center at the Women & Family Emergency Shelter. The name of the intake center is Place of Grace and one of the new features is a large flat screen television that families and homeless ladies, who are seeking services can sit and watch. The television is there to show the potential guests all the many programs and services that Star of Hope Mission offers to help them understand who we are and how much we want to help them.
Yesterday, after completing a video compilation of various elements I took the DVD over to test and play it for the first time at Place of Grace. I was joined by a homeless lady who I did not think was paying any attention to the video. She, like countless others, was just looking for a place that would take her in and give her some relief from the Houston streets. As the video progressed through all the various ministries of Star of Hope , she looked over at me and said that she had no idea that Star of Hope did so many things. I sat and explained a few details to her about what she had seen, all the while hoping she was inspired to become a part of the Star of Hope family and be a life changed, a life restored.
Learn more about Star of Hope and Philanthropy Opportunities Houston.
Excitement is building as we head toward March Madness and Houston prepares to host the NCAA Final Four Tournament! Not only will there be lots of memorable, action-filled college basketball, but also special outreaches to those in our community who are less fortunate…..and the kick-off is at Star of Hope!
Feed the Hungry will distribute food to 1,750 Houston-area families during tournament week and donate 250 boxes of food to Star of Hope Mission. A tractor trailer will roll into our Storehouse on March 14th, loaded down with boxes and pallets of food. We need 20 volunteers, age 18 or older, each day on Tuesday & Wednesday, March 15th & 16th, from 9 AM – 3 PM for to assemble and fill 750 boxes.
Through a partnership with Samaritan’s Feet, the tournament will give away 2011 pairs of shoes…..and the first 300 pairs will be given to clients at the Star of Hope Women & Family Emergency Shelter. What an awesome experience as volunteers wash and put a clean pair of socks on the feet of each client before they are fitted with new shoes and receive a care pack filled with toiletry items. Through these gestures of kindness and compassion, our clients will learn about their value and worth as individuals; that others care about them; and that better days are ahead. We need more than 80 volunteers, age 21 or older, working shifts from Noon – 7 PM on Monday, March 28th, to unload and set-up, wash feet, change water, greet, clean-up, and be runners.
Don’t miss out on this tremendous opportunity to participate in the 2011 NCAA Final Four Tournament! All volunteers will receive a commemorative 2011 NCAA Final Four t-shirt.
Sign-up today by contacting Elizabeth Hatler at ehatler@sohmission.org or 713-440-5322.
Find other ways to get involved and help Houston's homeless with Star of Hope today at Volunteer Opportunities Houston.
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
Recently, I had a chance to visit with one of our volunteers. He and a team from his employer have been involved in our new volunteer Call Center which started in November.
For several years our executive staff at Star of Hope, one of Houston’s Emergency Shelters, has been concerned about how we can shorten access time for homeless men, women and their families in need. So we started a phone bank! The Call Center is staffed in part by volunteers, providing a new volunteer opportunity in Houston.
This gentleman shared with me that he and the other team members were excited that serving in this volunteer role has required that they learn much more about all the services that we provide. Star of Hope is not just a soup kitchen in Houston…we offer emergency services such as a safe dry bed, a change of clothing, a warm meal, and even offer a transitional program if that is what is needed.
The major item that interested me was that he stated that the employees serving in this phone bank project have really come together, and they understand more about the needs of the homeless and what is being done here at Star of Hope! It touched my heart and reminded me that when we give something of our selves, we often receive a benefit!
I also wanted to report to you that, because many of you responded to the opportunity to make a financial donation, WE MADE OUR DECEMBER AND YTD BUDGET! I wanted to thank each of you who recognized the donation opportunity and followed through (like the volunteer mentioned above). I hope and pray that you and your family will be blessed throughout 2011!
For several years our executive staff at Star of Hope, one of Houston’s Emergency Shelters, has been concerned about how we can shorten access time for homeless men, women and their families in need. So we started a phone bank! The Call Center is staffed in part by volunteers, providing a new volunteer opportunity in Houston.
This gentleman shared with me that he and the other team members were excited that serving in this volunteer role has required that they learn much more about all the services that we provide. Star of Hope is not just a soup kitchen in Houston…we offer emergency services such as a safe dry bed, a change of clothing, a warm meal, and even offer a transitional program if that is what is needed.
The major item that interested me was that he stated that the employees serving in this phone bank project have really come together, and they understand more about the needs of the homeless and what is being done here at Star of Hope! It touched my heart and reminded me that when we give something of our selves, we often receive a benefit!
I also wanted to report to you that, because many of you responded to the opportunity to make a financial donation, WE MADE OUR DECEMBER AND YTD BUDGET! I wanted to thank each of you who recognized the donation opportunity and followed through (like the volunteer mentioned above). I hope and pray that you and your family will be blessed throughout 2011!
Visit Star of Hope Mission to learn more about Volunteer Jobs Houston and how you can
get involved as a Call Center Volunteer.
get involved as a Call Center Volunteer.
I am in early this morning to attend to the last details for our year-end. As I enter my office I see the wonderful picture of Ava, the three year old of a homeless family, on my office wall. Her sweet image gives me purpose and reason for my presence here this morning.
You and all those wonderful folks who partner with us at Star of Hope, help provide hope and emergency comfort, resources and safety for those who stay with us in our Women & Family Emergency Shelter and our Transitional Living Center. I see the benefits first hand, to the parents…but I see much more. I am here to help provide hope to the children, those who are not yet really sure why they are here.
By the way, Ava’s image, with her big beautiful eyes and her full, stringy brown hair reminds me of my own grand daughter. We all need help sometime! May God richly bless you as we seek the wonder of a New Year!
This morning we are within 5% of making the much needed budget to finish 2010. There is still time for you to make a difference! May God richly bless you as you seek His perfect will and possibly to make a small difference in the lives of those in need!
You and all those wonderful folks who partner with us at Star of Hope, help provide hope and emergency comfort, resources and safety for those who stay with us in our Women & Family Emergency Shelter and our Transitional Living Center. I see the benefits first hand, to the parents…but I see much more. I am here to help provide hope to the children, those who are not yet really sure why they are here.
By the way, Ava’s image, with her big beautiful eyes and her full, stringy brown hair reminds me of my own grand daughter. We all need help sometime! May God richly bless you as we seek the wonder of a New Year!
This morning we are within 5% of making the much needed budget to finish 2010. There is still time for you to make a difference! May God richly bless you as you seek His perfect will and possibly to make a small difference in the lives of those in need!
Join Star of Hope in helping families in crisis. Visit 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.
There are miracles all around...if you just look. Many miracles are answered prayers; and that is what I want to share today.
Many people want to donate to Charitable Organizations Houston during the Christmas Season. Donating To Charitable Organizations is the stuff holidays are made of. Among other Shelters Houston Texas, Star of Hope is the recipient of many of these charitable callers. Many want to help in any way they can...one way we offer is the "Adopt-A-Family" Christmas Program.
Serving graduates of our programs--Men's Development Center; Transitional Living Center; and, New Horizons--the "Adopt-a-Family" Christmas Program matches donors with needy families/individuals to ensure they get gifts and other blessings for Christmas. This economy has been rough on many people--but the calls from donors wanting to help flows strongly!!
In the midst of a staff change, it was my pleasure to oversee the "Adopt-a-Family" Christmas Program--fielding the calls from donors, entering client data into the computer, and, matching donors with those in need. Many matches were made before the Thanksgiving Holiday and donors were asked to contact their families/individuals by 12/15/10 to establish rapport and begin communicating.
Well, there was a family who received NO contact. Christmas was just eleven days away and she was concerned that her son was not going to have Christmas. How was she going to make ends meet AND get Christmas gifts for her son; "He is so deserving," she said. "He made great grades and deserves to have a good Christmas even if I can't give it to him myself."
I emailed and called the donor several times--no answer, no contact. I was sitting at my desk THIS AFTERNOON praying to God to have the donor call me. What was I going to do if this little family did not have a match??!! The phone rang...
"Hi, my name is Denise, and me and my husband would like to help a family for Christmas if you have something we could help with."
God had provided for the family (a donor calling to be matched), and for me--I did not have to worry that this little family would be forgotten for Christmas!! A Christmas Miracle--YES; and, I got to be a part of it!!!
The best gift of all... "While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:6-7
Many people want to donate to Charitable Organizations Houston during the Christmas Season. Donating To Charitable Organizations is the stuff holidays are made of. Among other Shelters Houston Texas, Star of Hope is the recipient of many of these charitable callers. Many want to help in any way they can...one way we offer is the "Adopt-A-Family" Christmas Program.
Serving graduates of our programs--Men's Development Center; Transitional Living Center; and, New Horizons--the "Adopt-a-Family" Christmas Program matches donors with needy families/individuals to ensure they get gifts and other blessings for Christmas. This economy has been rough on many people--but the calls from donors wanting to help flows strongly!!
In the midst of a staff change, it was my pleasure to oversee the "Adopt-a-Family" Christmas Program--fielding the calls from donors, entering client data into the computer, and, matching donors with those in need. Many matches were made before the Thanksgiving Holiday and donors were asked to contact their families/individuals by 12/15/10 to establish rapport and begin communicating.
Well, there was a family who received NO contact. Christmas was just eleven days away and she was concerned that her son was not going to have Christmas. How was she going to make ends meet AND get Christmas gifts for her son; "He is so deserving," she said. "He made great grades and deserves to have a good Christmas even if I can't give it to him myself."
I emailed and called the donor several times--no answer, no contact. I was sitting at my desk THIS AFTERNOON praying to God to have the donor call me. What was I going to do if this little family did not have a match??!! The phone rang...
"Hi, my name is Denise, and me and my husband would like to help a family for Christmas if you have something we could help with."
God had provided for the family (a donor calling to be matched), and for me--I did not have to worry that this little family would be forgotten for Christmas!! A Christmas Miracle--YES; and, I got to be a part of it!!!
The best gift of all... "While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:6-7
Guest Blogger: Brian Kolb
I’ve been a supporter of SOH (Star of Hope) for a few years now. The extent of my support historically has begun and ended with my checkbook. Until recently.
My family had an opportunity to serve "Cookies and Goodnight" at the Women & Family Emergency Shelter where we engaged 300 residents with homemade cookies, juice and smiles.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says “Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver”.
Even though all that I had done for years was write a check, Peyton was able to see that act, understand it’s meaning and see the joy and blessing it brings our house. She understands that we are blessed to be a blessing. What an exciting opportunity!
I’m a slow learner and as such I have to simplify my relationship with God. For me, God is Good Orderly Direction. When I choose to listen to those that I respect and admire, when I emulate what they do and when I trust God, knowing that he is faithful even I am not, my life improves exponentially, my relationships are healthy and my peace of mind is of the charts.
Brian
I’ve been a supporter of SOH (Star of Hope) for a few years now. The extent of my support historically has begun and ended with my checkbook. Until recently.
My family had an opportunity to serve "Cookies and Goodnight" at the Women & Family Emergency Shelter where we engaged 300 residents with homemade cookies, juice and smiles.
It was the single biggest impact my family has experienced in service work.
As we were going to the shelter, I thought I’d hand deliver my check in an envelope. My 8 year old daughter, Peyton saw me doing this the day before we left, asked what the money would do and how it would help SOH. Peyton said she’d like to give some money to help for Christmas and began to consider what she’d give. I wanted to tell her that it wasn’t necessary but I needed to let her decide. To my amazement, the next day she told us that she wanted to give $20 to SOH. She said that she felt good about that but when she considered less, it didn’t feel so good.Peyton reminded me that we are to give joyfully.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says “Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver”.
Even though all that I had done for years was write a check, Peyton was able to see that act, understand it’s meaning and see the joy and blessing it brings our house. She understands that we are blessed to be a blessing. What an exciting opportunity!
Good Orderly Direction
I’m a slow learner and as such I have to simplify my relationship with God. For me, God is Good Orderly Direction. When I choose to listen to those that I respect and admire, when I emulate what they do and when I trust God, knowing that he is faithful even I am not, my life improves exponentially, my relationships are healthy and my peace of mind is of the charts.
Brian
Learn more about how you can get involved with Star of Hope by visiting Donating To Charitable Organizations Houston and Community Service Volunteers Houston.
Nearly 21% of people staying in homeless shelters in Houston are families. If you missed it the other night on Fox 26 Houston, Kristine Galvan interviewed a mother at Star of Hope's Women & Family Emergency Shelter:
Looking for a way to give back and help those less fortunate this Christmas? Please consider a gift today for Star of Hope. Donate online at Charitable Donations Houston.
Looking for a way to give back and help those less fortunate this Christmas? Please consider a gift today for Star of Hope. Donate online at Charitable Donations Houston.
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.
During my eight years working for Star of Hope Mission, I have watched over and over as homeless clients move from virtually “no hope” with total dependence, to beginning their independent walk in a new life. Star of Hope is not just a Soup Kitchen in Houston! We offer Christian Ministries with such services as drug rehabilitation, emergency homeless services, parenting classes, career building classes, for homeless persons and for battered women, men and for families. We offer care for men, single women and for families at our three homeless shelters and transitional living centers.
Last week I got to meet a young woman who lived here at Star of Hope twelve years ago. When she came here, she was 4 years old, and she got into a ballet dance program offered by a volunteer. Her family got back on their feet and now she is married and has three beautiful children. She was present at the opening of our newly decorated Intake area at Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter. It was a real blessing to visit and to see how well she is doing now. She and her family had received a chance to get back on their feet, and they had taken it!
I hope that you weren’t ever homeless! But if you had been, wouldn’t it be great to know that there was a place, where people would listen to you, pray with you, cry with you, and try to meet your every need! Star of Hope is such a place!
Would you consider partnering with us, through offering a prayer for the less fortunate, and through making a contribution? You can go to Charitable Donations Houston to make a contribution.
There are so many ways you can help the homeless in our community! Here’s a list of some things you may consider doing between now and Christmas.
- Organize a drive for Christmas Gifts. Items are needed by December 10.
- Donate online to provide Christmas Gifts. Visit Star of Hope’s Christmas Gift Catalog.
- Create We Care Houston Packages and give them to homeless men and women you see on the streets.
- Give $10 by texting “SOH” to 20222. Encourage your friends to do it too!
- Provide warm and nutritious meals for only $1.63 each.
- Volunteer to serve a meal at one of Star of Hope’s facilities. We serve 3 meals a day, 365 days a year.
- Host a drive and a contest...Pillow Fight: Who can gather the most new pillows and pillow cases?
- TP the Mission: What?... Host a drive for toilet paper.
- Use your professional skills to help the homeless.
- Undies for Change: We always need NEW socks and underwear for men and women.
- Pray for our homeless veterans who are living on the streets.
- Provide a day of care… food, clothing, shelter and more.
- Home and Dry: Collect new linens and blankets for twin beds. Make Star of Hope feel more like home.
- Tell your friends why you care for the homeless and why you support Star of Hope.
- Pray with and for homeless children who are praying for a home.
- Pray for the men and women at Star of Hope who are on the road to recovery and a new life.
- Could you commit to working one shift a week? Become a High Impact Volunteer.
- Share your support for Star of Hope on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. We appreciate it!
- Like working with kids? You and your group can host a children’s activity at Star of Hope.
- A volunteer opportunity for the whole family… Cookies and Good Night.
- The donated clothing we receive needs to be sorted. Come serve in our Storehouse.
- We answer a lot of phone calls! Volunteer in our Call Center.
- Looking for a last minute Christmas Gift. Help the homeless and send your friends Christmas eCards.
- Get Up and Go: Host a drive for job-interview-worthy women’s clothing size 22 and up.
- It’s not too late to give a year-end gift. Donate online and help Houston’s homeless.
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.
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.
Star of Hope’s 2010 Christmas Gift Catalog is online. You can help Houston’s homeless men women and children, and honor a family member or friend at the same time.
“Some gifts won’t ever be forgotten. Here are six: The gift of food for men, women and children who are hungry...Christmas presents for those who have few reasons to smile...spiritual care for thousands of people struggling from day to day without hope...safety and protection for the littlest among us—the children...the opportunity to learn, to grow, to acquire new skills, to create a new life…shelter and care for those without a home and protection.”
Gift #1 - Gifts of Nourishment: Food
Gift #2 - Gifts of Joy: Christmas Gifts
Gift #3 - Gifts for the Soul: Spiritual Care
Gift #4 - Gifts of Safety: Children’s Critical Care
Gift #5 - Gifts of Learning: Education
Gift #6 - Gifts of Hope: Shelter & Care
If you prefer to give your gift through the mail, download our mail-in form. When you donate online you can send eCards to family and friends. You may select to send your eCard now or schedule a date closer to Christmas.
“Some gifts won’t ever be forgotten. Here are six: The gift of food for men, women and children who are hungry...Christmas presents for those who have few reasons to smile...spiritual care for thousands of people struggling from day to day without hope...safety and protection for the littlest among us—the children...the opportunity to learn, to grow, to acquire new skills, to create a new life…shelter and care for those without a home and protection.”
Gift #1 - Gifts of Nourishment: Food Gift #2 - Gifts of Joy: Christmas Gifts
Gift #3 - Gifts for the Soul: Spiritual Care
Gift #4 - Gifts of Safety: Children’s Critical Care
Gift #5 - Gifts of Learning: Education
Gift #6 - Gifts of Hope: Shelter & Care
If you prefer to give your gift through the mail, download our mail-in form. When you donate online you can send eCards to family and friends. You may select to send your eCard now or schedule a date closer to Christmas.
Learn about other ways to give and helping Houston's homeless with Star of Hope at
Charitable Organizations Houston.
Charitable Organizations Houston.
It’s been a year since I received the first e-mail from Jeannie Eisenhart. Jeannie works for Crowley Maritime in Florida and is on the Board of the National Business Travel Association.
NBTA members include airlines, hotels and resorts, travel agents and corporate travel departments, food service companies and temporary corporate apartment homes – just to name a few. Their 2010 international convention & exposition was scheduled for Houston, and for the first time ever, NBTA wanted the agenda to include a community service project. After the Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau recommended Star of Hope and NBTA executives from Washington, D.C. toured our facilities, an amazing partnership was born!
NBTA featured Star of Hope on their website and urged each member’s support. Without a track record, NBTA did not know what the response would be. But they wanted to provide members with a variety of ways to help Houston’s homeless men, women and children:
· * As members completed the convention registration form, they were asked to make a $10 donation to Star of Hope.
· * NBTA members were given a list of needed items – such as toiletries, towels, sheets, clothing and canned goods – and asked to make an in-kind donation.
· * And members were asked to sign-up for a project at our Transitional Living Center – painting client apartments and other living areas, writing notes of encouragement for client mailboxes and assisting in the kitchen.
Deliveries arrived from across the country – large and small boxes of donated items. As our Women & Family Emergency Shelter slept a growing number of adults and children in overflow during the dangerous summer heat, these donations were a special blessing.
We worked with the incredible NBTA staff for almost a year, planning for every detail. And there was a lot of work happening behind the scenes. NBTA secured cash donations from ADTRAV and Continental Airlines. Someone from Lowe’s contacted Werner & Co. on behalf of NBTA. Werner generously donated more than 50 ladders for the painting project. And Aramark donated drinks and snacks for NBTA volunteers.
After such a tremendous team effort, I was eager to meet all of the people from across the country who worked so tirelessly to bless Star of Hope. I wanted to put faces with the names and personally thank each one of our new friends. Project day could not arrive soon enough!
Make plans to serve Houston’s homeless men, women and children.
Call 713-440-5322 or 713-440-5301 to discuss volunteer project options for your group.
Community Volunteer Opportunities Houston
A few weeks ago, I shared with you that the number of homeless families in Houston has doubled in just the last year. Our family shelter in downtown Houston has been full with overflow every night. This shocking trend appears to be continuing as we move into Fall and the holidays.
During just one recent weekend, ten families came to Star of Hope’s Women and Family Emergency Shelter for food and safety, all on the same afternoon. These four, two-parent families with children, a single dad with his children, and five husband and wife couples spent the night safely with us, bringing our total overflow sleeping on the floor that night up to 115. And that is in addition to all our rooms being full with another 275 people!
The face of homelessness is changing. These “families on the fringe” are living in their cars, in abandoned buildings or with a friend or a relative doubling up. Many of them are victims of the economy. Sooner or later, when they end up at our front door, they find that door is always open.
With no relief in sight, we are planning for the coming months. The holidays are right around the corner and this season we anticipate continued record numbers. We’ll need record amounts of food to serve those who, perhaps for the first time, are not spending these special days in their homes, but “at the home you provide” at Star of Hope.
We are all blessed with the ability to provide a warm meal for our family. Why not start the holiday early and help us provide for a family less fortunate by visiting Ways to Give. The most versatile and effective gift is a financial one. This allows us to purchase needed food items, and this is a gift you can make right now.
As you set your table tonight, think of a setting a place for a homeless family as well, and know that your donation has helped provide them with a nutritious meal too. Thank you for helping us care for these new families!
During just one recent weekend, ten families came to Star of Hope’s Women and Family Emergency Shelter for food and safety, all on the same afternoon. These four, two-parent families with children, a single dad with his children, and five husband and wife couples spent the night safely with us, bringing our total overflow sleeping on the floor that night up to 115. And that is in addition to all our rooms being full with another 275 people!
The face of homelessness is changing. These “families on the fringe” are living in their cars, in abandoned buildings or with a friend or a relative doubling up. Many of them are victims of the economy. Sooner or later, when they end up at our front door, they find that door is always open.
With no relief in sight, we are planning for the coming months. The holidays are right around the corner and this season we anticipate continued record numbers. We’ll need record amounts of food to serve those who, perhaps for the first time, are not spending these special days in their homes, but “at the home you provide” at Star of Hope.
We are all blessed with the ability to provide a warm meal for our family. Why not start the holiday early and help us provide for a family less fortunate by visiting Ways to Give. The most versatile and effective gift is a financial one. This allows us to purchase needed food items, and this is a gift you can make right now.
As you set your table tonight, think of a setting a place for a homeless family as well, and know that your donation has helped provide them with a nutritious meal too. Thank you for helping us care for these new families!
Visit Philanthropy Opportunities Houston and Community Volunteer Opportunities Houston
for more ways to get involved.
for more ways to get involved.
Powered by Compendium