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In 2007 an estimated 38,000 to 48,000 individuals in Virginia experienced homelessness throughout the year. 2007 Virginia Homeless Report Department of Housing and Community Development
The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans estimates that on any given night, 271,000 veterans are homeless. (National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, 1994)

 

The House of Hope is a response to the increasing need to shelter and care for the homeless in our community. Gardner began this project in December 2006 when she provided shelter for a young man who was homeless. She continued to help the homeless with assistance from a few individuals in the community through March 2007. During April and May, Calvary Episcopal Church was kind enough to provide a temporary shelter for the men in a former rectory. 

Many others have contributed to the creation of the House of Hope. Representatives from the Ministerial Association, independent churches, C-CAP, CTHP, the Coalition Against Hunger, and concerned citizens formed the Warren County Shelter Task Group. The Task Group provided direction and offered services. It helped the House of Hope become an independent entity. 

An urgent need existed to form a cohesive program to meet the shelter’s needs. As an independent entity, the House of Hope is in a better position to operate with greater momentum. The shelter is now housed in a rented, four bedroom facility. Community members have donated their time and talents to ready the facility for occupancy. The staff now forms direct relationships with members of the community who are vital to the shelter. As a corporation the shelter will be able to apply for grants and obtain necessary insurance. The staff is developing a network of community resources that will be mutually beneficial. Committees are forming to help this shelter become a model in the state. 

The House of Hope operates as a “Home of Encouragement” for individuals who need a helping hand. Already several individuals have ‘graduated’ from the program. 

Gardner said, “Those who are homeless may find shelter and food as well as encouragement. In addition to these needs they may also receive help in finding employment, medical care, and learning life skills so that they might then move back out into the community to live more successfully.” That’s what the House of Hope is all about.

For more information, please call the House of Hope (540-635-2466)

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