By Paula Willbrant, Ministry Pastor of Care
This past Sunday several of the “Homeless Ministry Team” had the privilege of touring a “New Hope” SRO facility on I-45 and Rittenhouse, which is north on I-45. This New Hope facility is one of three in the Houston area, which were built as part of the plan to end homelessness in Houston.
I was absolutely blown away when we drove up to the beautifully kept building and surrounding area that is “home” to 160 under privileged men and women. The grounds were immaculately kept with flowers, shrubs and trees. The building itself was modern, welcoming and very clean! Each unit is about 275 sq. ft. with a single bed & chair. The space includes a kitchen area with a microwave and small refrigerator. When building the facilities the architect paid attention to ways of keeping the rooms clean with artificial wood flooring and door less cabinetry. Needless to say I was impressed. I think all of us on the tour were.
After the tour we met with the Director in charge of the property, the Executive and her assistant. Each of them have lots of experience in these programs and “know their stuff’!!! They shared the basic criteria for someone getting to live there and they told us about their rules. Bottom line, these people are committed to helping people less fortunate and to help them get off the street.
I saw God at work there, and I felt God at work in our hearts. There is a lot to do, many options to consider. BUT, we have already come a long way by gathering information from people who know the particulars about the homeless program. We’re learning, discerning, and most of all praying!
It will be interesting to see where God leads us in this venture! My prayer is that you will come along with us. Together let’s be God’s hands, feet and heart!
This past Sunday several of the “Homeless Ministry Team” had the privilege of touring a “New Hope” SRO facility on I-45 and Rittenhouse, which is north on I-45. This New Hope facility is one of three in the Houston area, which were built as part of the plan to end homelessness in Houston.
I was absolutely blown away when we drove up to the beautifully kept building and surrounding area that is “home” to 160 under privileged men and women. The grounds were immaculately kept with flowers, shrubs and trees. The building itself was modern, welcoming and very clean! Each unit is about 275 sq. ft. with a single bed & chair. The space includes a kitchen area with a microwave and small refrigerator. When building the facilities the architect paid attention to ways of keeping the rooms clean with artificial wood flooring and door less cabinetry. Needless to say I was impressed. I think all of us on the tour were.
After the tour we met with the Director in charge of the property, the Executive and her assistant. Each of them have lots of experience in these programs and “know their stuff’!!! They shared the basic criteria for someone getting to live there and they told us about their rules. Bottom line, these people are committed to helping people less fortunate and to help them get off the street.
I saw God at work there, and I felt God at work in our hearts. There is a lot to do, many options to consider. BUT, we have already come a long way by gathering information from people who know the particulars about the homeless program. We’re learning, discerning, and most of all praying!
It will be interesting to see where God leads us in this venture! My prayer is that you will come along with us. Together let’s be God’s hands, feet and heart!
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