Frequently Asked Questions
What does Community of Hope Ministries do?
Since 2004, Community of Hope Ministries has been serving the at-risk population in the greater Garner community. The operations office for Community of Hope Ministries is located on the campus of First Baptist Church of Garner. However it has existing partnerships with many local churches, the Town of Garner and over 40 local businesses.
What types of assistance does Community of Hope Ministries provide?
We provide at-risk families with Nutrition Assistance/Food Pantry services, employment counseling and emergency financial aid for such necessities as heating fuel, utilities, prescriptions and rent. We provide Crisis Assistance for families who find themselves without a safe place to live or who have immediate need for relief on mortgage, rent, utility or medical obligations. Community of Hope offers free tutoring for at-risk elementary students in our After School Program. We provide an inexpensive summer and track out camp, Camp Good Hope, to provide children with safe, structured activities during the summer months, and we serve the widowed, single mothers, and the physically challenged with home care and maintenance assistance through Carpenter’s Hands. Community of Hope is a site for a Biblically based job readiness program called, Jobs for Life. This program offers the skills and training necessary to aid the unemployed and the underemployed seek and maintain permanent employment.
Who can get assistance from Community of Hope Ministries?
Community of Hope Ministries’ primary service area targets residents in the Garner 27529, 27603 and 27610 zip codes. However, we will take referrals from agencies and supporting churches in other areas as needed.
How many people in the community receive assistance?
Community of Hope Ministries provides assistance to approximately 200 families each month through the eight ministries God has given us. We have over 3500 families in our database who have received assistance in the past five years.
How does Community of Hope Ministries determine who receives food aid?
Food aid is distributed once every calendar month per household with proof of address. Families often use our food as a supplement to their limited income or food stamp supplies. This aid assists our at-risk neighbors in maintaining their household finances.
How does Community of Hope Ministries determine how to distribute its financial resources?
Community of Hope Ministries requires our at-risk clients to demonstrate proof of need by providing a copy of the delinquent bill. Pledges are made on a case by case basis and the all monies are paid directly to the company and not to the individual making the request. Individuals may request financial assistance once a year from Community of Hope but may receive groceries every month.
How can I receive help?
The best way to start is to contact Community of Hope Ministries through our website or call us at (919) 779-6679. The Food Pantry is open each Tuesday and Thursday from 11:00am-12:00pm and the third Thursday night of the month from 6:00pm-7:00pm. Requests for financial assistance are taken by appointment only through one of the contacts above.
How is Community of Hope Ministries funded?
Community of Hope Ministries is funded through donations from individuals, churches, civic groups, and businesses in the Garner area. It also has an active grant writing team working to identify funds through charitable organizations and foundations. Community of Hope Ministries is licensed to solicit funds in the State of North Carolina and has participated in several fundraising dinners and golf tournaments.
What types of donations does Community of Hope Ministries accept?
Community of Hope Ministries accepts monetary donations and food items. Donations can be made in cash, by check or by credit card. We also accept donations of office supplies and school supplies. Donations may be made online here on our website through a secure PayPal account. If you would like to donate to our ministry, you can do so HERE.
Typically, Community of Hope Ministries asks for non-perishable food items, however, there is a small amount of freezer space. Items that Community of Hope Ministries accepts include: canned vegetables, soups, canned meats and fish, rice, peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, cereal, pasta and sauce, and dessert. Community of Hope Ministries will also give frozen meats, fresh produce and toiletries when available.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes. Community of Hope Ministries is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization and donations are fully tax-deductible. Receipting is done at year-end to be received by the donor in time for submission with the individual’s/corporation’s tax forms.
