Domestic violence often walks through our doors. There has been an increase during the hot summer months as I see my ladies come in with their faces bruised and cut up. One would come up to me once in a while as she is leaving, hug me, start to cry and say, “I love you, […]
We were reading in Proverbs yesterday, chapter 11 when we read the scripture, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” How appropriate. I couldn’t help but reflect over the day and know those I have the opportunity to serve are such a blessing to me. I stand at the door […]
True story: When I was interviewing for my position in the Meal Ministry, I was asked if I had any restaurant experience. I jokingly answered, “Yes, I watch Restaurant Impossible!” I’m certain JoAnn blinked not knowing how to acknowledge that answer and took it as a polite, no experience. I often say running the Meal […]
A proverb is a short, concise sentence that conveys moral truth. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, left a legacy of written wisdom in Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs where he gives us practical insights and guidelines for life. Before every meal is served I have the awesome responsibility of doing devotions. Right […]
Refuge of Hope’s shelter is not just a place where a homeless man can sleep at night. Rather, it’s a support center, in a safe environment, where men can come to grips with the personal, economical and societal issues that caused them to become homeless. A day in the life of a shelter resident: […]
Connecting with friends and those who live in our community by sharing stories and building awareness, we are able to share our Men’s Shelter and daily life in a Meal Ministry through pictures and posts of dinner guests, those who serve as volunteers, daily happenings, thank our donors, share events and upcoming events. Most importantly, […]
Refuge of Hope provides volunteer opportunities for students who attend Social Welfare courses in our local college and universities such as Walsh University, Malone University, Stark State College and the University of Akron. Students are often required to spend 15 hours volunteering in an observation setting with the objective of field experience to introduce students […]
*Oscar embodies what we envision when we think of a homeless person. He is the one who wanders the streets, very dirty, unkempt clothing, disheveled appearance; however, Oscar also suffers from untreated mental illness as well as substance abuse. It is difficult to communicate with him and I always have to keep my distance due […]
With his elbow on the table and his fist resting against his sweet, dirty little face, I had to ask him. “Are you okay, Noah?” He replied very upset, “This is the most TERRIBLEST dinner ever!” My heart melted and I told him I absolutely agreed! When I was his age there is no way […]
Heading home reflecting over the day, sunbeams were bursting behind a cloud wrapped in a silver lining and I could not help but ponder it pretty much summed up the day and I had to snap a picture. *Todd is a kind and quiet dinner guest I got to know last winter providing him warm […]
Your generosity enables us to serve hot and nutritious meals free to the community in a family-style setting Monday through Saturday. Our numbers are growing more every day. Even the smallest contribution is sincerely appreciated.