Mens Emergency Shelter

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

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

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

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

God bless and inspire you - and thank you.

Learn about other ways to give. Visit Charitable Donations Houston

Throughout the community, an exceptional group of young people are learning the skills needed to become our future leaders. These young men and women are part of the Boy Scout and Girl Scout programs. What an honor it is to work with Scouts who select Star of Hope as the site for their Eagle Scout and Girls Scout Gold Award projects!  

The project requirements are stringent. Scouts must submit a comprehensive plan - containing a detailed description of the project, the necessary supplies and materials, how the project will be funded and how the project will benefit Star of Hope - that goes through many levels of approval in the Scout organizations before work can begin. 

This month, Scouts Mark Camero and Kevin Sweat will complete the projects they first proposed last year. Mark designed and is coordinating a team to build shelving units for a storage area at Star of Hope’s Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Kevin designed and is coordinating a team to build a seating area and improve the area around a playground at our Transitional Living Center. Scout Brian Howell is working on a project that will include a new seating area and beautification of an area around Star of Hope’s administration building. From drawing plans to material take-offs, these young men have covered all the bases. Scouts Tyler Barron and Matthew Salazar recently hosted donation drives for pillows, towels, socks and underwear and collected several thousand items! As we work with these young men over many months, nothing is more awesome and inspiring than when the invitation arrives to their Court of Honor ceremonies! 

Girl Scouts Madeline Bowser and Kelsey Pearson developed Gold Award projects that enriched the lives of the elementary-school-age children at our Transitional Living Center. Madeline organized and hosted three fun-filled monthly theme parties and also collected children’s socks and underwear. Kelsey, who lived in China for several years, shared her love for international cultures by organizing and hosting three international festivals that included arts & crafts, food and games. Not only did our children benefit from these unique experiences, Madeline and Kelsey were excellent role models.

In addition to these wonderful young people, Boy Scout leader Shana Montgomery has been a special blessing. While working through the demanding Wood Badge program, which teaches advanced leadership skills, Shana selected Star of Hope for her community service project. She helped get our children ready for summer camp by collecting flip-flops in all colors and sizes. 

We are so proud of our Scouts and grateful for the many ways they bless our mission! Each Scout demonstrates a tremendous work ethic, dedication and compassion for those less fortunate. Their commitment and service truly gives Houston’s homeless men, women and children hope for a better tomorrow.

"We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." Psalm 33:20

Easter always brings back the memory of a time when I was a little girl, sitting in the church pew with my parents, listening to the choir perform songs about the risen Christ. But one man in particular, always had me riveted to my seat. His voice was so deep and rich that the lyrics seemed to swell over the organ, especially when he sang, Were You There When They Crucified My Lord? Something about that song always went right through my small frame. It was my first recognition of the awful beauty of His gift.

All these years later, I recognize that beauty which comes from agony, again, in the faces of our clients, at Star of Hope, whether the Men's Development Center, the Women and Family Emergency Shelter, or the Transitional Living Center. They have endured painful—often terrible times, their losses are acute, and the harsh realities of their circumstances can be seen in their eyes. They have had to be courageous in ways most of us cannot imagine. But Easter comes for them just as it came for Jesus. In this Christ-centered community, the Lord extends His nail-pierced hands to help homeless men, women, and children rise up from the pain, the past and fear of the future, and walk in the hope that is blood-bought, indelible, and available. Through our wonderful donors, volunteers, and advocates, the gift of Christ is at work at Star of Hope in the programs offered and the extraordinary staff who love our clients unconditionally.  And it is beautiful to behold. 
 

Learn more about Star of Hope's life-changing ministries by visiting Supporting Houston Ministries

Saturday was a clear, sparkling, spring day! But the bright Houston sunshine did not compare with the generous, compassionate hearts of our volunteers or the big, beautiful smiles lighting up the faces of guests at Star of Hope's Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Our friends from Texon hosted their very special third annual Easter celebration, and amid all the fun and festivities, homeless men, women and children, whose lives are in crises, learned more about a Savior who loves them. 

Hundreds of colorful eggs, filled with goodies, were hidden in the shelter’s courtyard. Nothing was more fun than watching the excitement of our precious little ones as they discovered each hidden treasure. Our children, young and old, were captivated by the artistic designs of volunteer face painters and loved “modeling” their very own masterpieces. But the biggest draw was the photo booth. The photos taken of each family were transformed into keepsake portraits as technology set families in front of a gorgeous cathedral stained glass window. I wish I could describe the pride with which both adults and children showed off their family photos to other shelter guests, staff and volunteers. The photos captured a memory our guests will take with them for a lifetime!

The blessing didn’t stop there! Guests heard the Easter story – about Jesus dying on a cross and being resurrected so that we all can have eternal life – and were treated to a lunchtime concert by the Grand Parkway Baptist Church choir. Texon catered and served a delicious meal of grilled chicken Alfredo with mushrooms, peas and red peppers accompanied by French bread…..and dozens and dozens of chocolate and vanilla cupcakes. Volunteers iced cupcakes to order and topped them with rainbow sprinkles, colored sugar and mini-chocolate chips. Food for the body AND food for the spirit!

As I made my way to the exit, I spoke with a father/son volunteer team for just a few moments. The dad said, “It is a beautiful day outside. But being able to help people, it is even more beautiful right here, inside the shelter!” 

That is the heart of all of our volunteers and we are grateful for each of you!  Happy Easter!
 

Learn how you can get involved at Houston Volunteer Opportunities.

This afternoon held one of those lovely, rare treats that we all cherish and hold close to our hearts. Sherri Ramos, from our Development department, and I were privileged to have lunch in the home of a most remarkable woman, Frances Swartsfager. Until her health began failing late last year, Frances was an active Star of Hope volunteer. But at age 96, she has certainly not retired!

Sharing a little of her history, Frances began volunteering as a certified Red Cross nurse aid during World War II. She described walking to work each day in the required uniform, white nylons and polished white shoes.  She reminisced about her work with expectant moms as their labor progressed.

As she and her beloved husband, Clarence, became parents to a beautiful baby boy, her role shifted to that of a homemaker. There she found unlimited opportunities for service – right in her own neighborhood. She became the scout den mother, the carpool driver and after-school snack provider.  Her door was always open.

When Clarence retired, he and Frances began a new ministry. Every morning, six days a week, for 20 years, the Swartsfagers zoomed out the door, each driving a station wagon, to arrive at the grocery store bakery by 7 AM. There they would load up all of the day-old bread and pastries to bring to Star of Hope and the Emergency Aid Coalition. 

In the early 1980’s, when women and children began seeking shelter at Star of Hope, Frances led a volunteer team from Church Women United in cooking and serving meals. She fondly spoke of that first shelter where sheets of plywood were used to give each family a little privacy. She didn’t care what brought a woman to Star of Hope – whether it was bad choices or unexpected circumstances – she was there with a loving, compassionate heart to help. Along with her team, Frances said there were many volunteers from Southwestern Bell who worked to make life a little more comfortable for those struggling families. 

As Star of Hope grew, Frances sought relevant new ways for her group to bless our mission. They served meals at banquets and during the holidays, addressed and sorted bulk mailings, and wrapped Christmas gifts at our Christmas Workshop. Not only was Frances busy at Star of Hope, she faithfully served her church and other community ministries. Every Thursday, Frances could be found at the Emergency Aid Coalition making hundreds of sandwiches for those in need. Although it’s now more difficult to venture away from home, Frances still organizes volunteer projects for Church Women United and ministers to everyone who crosses her path – even her own caregivers. 

Her favorite part of volunteering at Star of Hope was having the opportunity to hear client testimonies. She loved hearing the unique story of each woman – what her life had been and how, through God’s grace, her life was forever changed. Of course, Frances didn’t let Sherri and I leave without praying – not only for us, but also for all of the lost and hurting men, women and children who come through the doors at Star of Hope. As I hugged and kissed Frances goodbye, it was hard to leave. I was inspired to do more, to reach out to others with the love of Jesus – just as Frances has faithfully done for so many years.
 
 

Discover volunteer opportunities of interest to you at Volunteer Opportunities Houston

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in….” Matthew 25:35

Assisting in the kitchen is one of our most requested volunteer jobs and a favorite of both long-term and one-time volunteers. Kitchen volunteers do everything from assist with food preparation and set-up to serving the meals and clean-up. There are always plenty of other jobs that need volunteer attention, such as keeping the pantry, coolers and freezers organized. 

Last Saturday, Chevron’s Black Employee Network kicked off their partnership with Star of Hope by assisting with lunch at our Women & Family Emergency Shelter. Volunteers were busy peeling potatoes and cutting up fries, assembling veggie stacks for the burgers and cooking a very special treat – homemade fudge.  A few volunteers even brought their heavy jackets and gloves to help get the freezer ready for the large grocery order that would arrive Monday morning. At lunchtime, these volunteers waited tables and served the shelter’s guests restaurant-style. What a blessing it was for moms and dads with little ones not to worry about balancing serving trays!

Thursday, the University of Houston’s Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Susan Bush, was behind the serving line at our Transitional Living Center to assist with dinner. Susan brought Assistant Coach Eric Quill, her dad and sister along to help. A group of our teens got very excited when they realized they were talking with coaches from a collegiate athletic program. Not only was dinner served with welcoming smiles and encouraging words, Coach Bush and Coach Quill were excellent role models and made college seem a little more real for our teens.

Volunteers who assist in the kitchens each week are a special blessing, like students from Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart.  For about the last 10 years, high school seniors from Duchesne have faithfully served lunch each week, September through May, at both our Men’s Development Center and our Women & Family Emergency Shelter. These young women are a breath of fresh air with their high energy and enthusiasm for helping those who struggling through difficult times.

We serve 3 meals a day, 365 days a year, at all three facilities, and are always grateful for volunteers with a heart for our mission! Check out this and other exciting Star of Hope volunteer opportunities at Community Volunteer Opportunities Houston.

What an amazing week we just experienced here in Houston… with below freezing nights, stores out of stock of insulation and heating equipment… as everyone rushed to prepare their homes for the cold.

But warm hearts abounded, as hundreds of Houstonians felt touched to reach out and help our Homeless population find shelter and warmth. Star of Hope’s two emergency shelters ramped up to sleep hundreds more on the floor, safe and warm from the weather and streets. Houston’s media organizations spread the news of the need for more blankets, sleeping bags, gloves and socks… and our great city responded!

The individual stories abound… family after family, companies, individuals, deciding to make a difference, and bringing carloads of these items to the Star of Hope.  Some went to multiple retailers to find items when they encountered stores that were sold out. One donor who wanted to help was sick at home with the flu and just couldn’t get out, so he went online and made an emergency gift through our website to help the cause financially!
 
Our “Love in Action” van was out several times every day handing out blankets, sleeping bags, socks, sandwiches and drinks to those on the streets, and bringing in all who were willing to take shelter.  And though our rooms were all occupied, everything worked smoothly for the 100+ men, women, and children in overflow, sleeping on the floor each night on mats and sleeping bags so many of you brought. Once inside, they were fed hot meals, shown God’s love… and hopefully given new Hope!

One member of the media, Susan O’Donnell of KSBJ, spent Saturday afternoon touring Star of Hope facilities and riding in the Love In Action Van; and was profoundly moved.  She saw staffer Charles Williams "putting the gloves on Jesus’ hands." And she spoke frequently on the radio over the weekend and Monday about her experiences. After looking in their eyes and hearing their stories, she stated she’d never think of them the same again, when she encounters one of these precious ones on the streets. Ones whom our Lord loves, and asks us to serve!

Thank you Susan, and each and every one of you great Houston folks, members of the media, donors, volunteers, and prayer partners… your Warm Houston Hearts made a difference in the lives of so many this past week!

Want to know more about how you can help those you encounter on the streets?  Click on wecarehouston.org and see how you can help!
 

Catch up on other Star of Hope news in our News Room at Help The Homeless Houston.

 

• Walked Hermann Park, praying for or with homeless men we met... giving them bottled water and granola bars
• Volunteered by preparing and serving meals at Star of Hope's Women & Family Emergency Shelter.

Thanksgiving is coming in just a week… and if your family is anything like mine, you travel to be together and thank God for all His blessings. We always gather around a traditional Thanksgiving table, complete with family and friends, with a feast of turkey and all the trimmings, dressing and giblet gravy, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.

Remind you of your home at holiday time? It is also for hundreds and hundreds of homeless men, women, and children, here at Star of Hope. As soon as you step into the facilities, you are instantly aware that this is a day that the Lord has made! There is so much gladness and joy, as volunteers rush about hanging decorations around the dining rooms, and the cooks put their last minute touches on the sumptuous meal.

One of the most precious sights is found at the Women and Family Emergency Shelter. Every table has displayed on it hand-written notes from our clients themselves. Some of them are meaningful Scriptures, some personal thoughts… each are sweet words of gratitude for the blessings they have received. Our clients pause in the midst of their storms to acknowledge, just as we all do, the grace of God in our lives, and the many blessings we have received.

Perhaps you will join me this Thanksgiving in having family members make such a "Thanksgiving card" for the table, and read them to each other. And then, for just a moment, we can ask God’s special blessing for those at the Star of Hope, during our Thanksgiving prayer!

My family and I are thankful for every moment that we have been given to be part of this great ministry, and the opportunity to partner with so many of you in this work. It is by God’s grace and your generous gifts that we are able to serve so many of Houston’s homeless, give them rest from their struggles, a home for the holiday, and best of all, a day to just be thankful. I am truly thankful for you and wish each of you a Thanksgiving that is rich in HOPE!

Women's Shelter Donation Houston

I just spent the last week moving into a new home for my family. During these past few weeks as we have been finalizing and moving into our new home, my thoughts have especially been on what "home" means for our Star of Hope men, women and children.

Our clients have each lost it all… gone is their apartment or their home. They’ve worn out their welcome with friends where they can stay a while, family members willing to take them in. As I watched my daughter and son excitedly explore their new rooms and begin to unpack, I thought of a family at our Women & Family Emergency Shelter who won’t be returning to their home. Their daughter will not be safe and happy in her own room this Thanksgiving or Christmas. The loss of mom’s or dad’s job, or worse, alcoholism or abuse has forced them out to the streets and onto Star of Hope’s front doorsteps, seeking help.

Well, the good news is we’re here to catch them! Star of Hope is the temporary home, family, and community that will keep them safe, clothed and fed while they begin to rebuild. We’ll be the shelter that surrounds them with God’s love as they start their journey toward a new life. Our goal at Star of Hope is not only to lead God’s children to an apartment or house – but to a home, full of love and caring and a true joy in living that comes from our Lord.

Because of your generosity, Star of Hope continues daily to provide the tools for this family and many others to move on to their new future and their new home. The holidays are right around the corner – and “home for the holidays” sounds pretty good to me. I invite you to visit us at www.sohmission.org right now to discover ways to help us be “home” during the holidays. Thank you for giving your time, talents and gifts for so many through Star of Hope!
 

Donation Opportunities Houston    -    Volunteer Opportunities Houston 
 

While more fortunate kids are planning “sleepovers” and getting ready for the new school year, last Sunday 30 children along with their parents slept on mats at our downtown Women & Family Emergency Shelter… a total of 88 people in all.

Our rooms were all full – but we were able to accommodate them on the floor. We try never to turn anyone away. With these guests, we had 388 people in this one shelter alone. Almost half of those were children eighteen and under… most of them were under twelve. I am always touched most by the children, as they are the innocent, ultimate victims of homelessness. Many of them do not know what “normal” childhood is all about. 

I am comforted and joyful to add, however, that in the daytime our House of Hope children’s facility provides childcare and activities for these kids. It’s such a great place and everything seems “normal” for those inside! That’s our goal: to allow the children of the homeless families we serve to play, learn, enjoy nourishing meals and experience love like any child in a normal situation does. I love walking through the halls and hearing the sounds of laughter and happiness. These “Kids in Crisis” finally have a normal routine. The dreams of camp and school replace nightmares and fear.

But our city has a long way to go with families in need and there are so many now. The economic situation that is gripping our nation increasingly affects Houston. We see it more and more every day.

As you may know, Star of Hope reaches out to about 1,000 homeless men, women and children EVERY DAY through the combined effort of our Men’s Development Center, Transitional Living Center, New Horizons program and Women & Family Emergency Shelter.

Thank you for your support and prayers as God works through our staff to repair these broken families!