Feature Story: Giving the Gift of a Home

Giving the Gift of a Home

by Cecilia Harris

‘Tis the season of giving and there’s no shortage of non-profit agencies requesting monetary support for good causes during the upcoming holidays. The HOPE Center in Abilene is one entity that throughout the year assists people who are struggling financially right here in Dickinson County.

Center Director Terresa Kohman says that in addition to financial support and prayer, the organization needs “to get the word out about what we do,” as many potential donors may not be aware of the Center’s impact in the community.

“The biggest part of our budget goes to provide emergency financial assistance for utilities, rent, medical needs such as prescriptions, transportation (gasoline), diapers and other random needs,” Kohman says.

409 NW 3rd St Abilene, KS 67410

In 2013, Kohman says the Center distributed $40,724 in aid to 219 households, thanks to the generosity of local residents.

“We do get some United Way funding, but other than that our support depends totally on donations,” she says.

The HOPE Center’s mission statement is to be a clearing house to meet the physical, emotional, financial and spiritual needs of the people of Dickinson County. As director, Kohman documents and verifies an applicant’s statement to determine what assistance the Center can provide. She then refers applicants to other agencies – such as the Abilene Area Food and Clothing Center – that can supply additional necessities.

Another service provided through HOPE House is budget counseling.

“We try to help with problem solving so they can be more accountable for their own needs,” Kohman says.

The Center also operates HOPE House, a temporary transitional shelter where a homeless family can reside for three months if they meet certain requirements.

Hope House Dickinson County

“We encourage savings so that when the family’s time is up they have the funds to move to a new place,” Kohman says, adding that the majority of temporary residents are single mothers. “We help them get back on their feet.”

Additionally, the HOPE Center serves as a representative payee appointed by the Social Security Administration to receive Social Security for an individual who is unable to manage his or her finances. The Center then is in charge of paying for the beneficiary’s needs, such as groceries and other bills.

Organized in 1991, the HOPE Center is guided by a board of directors consisting of 12 community members and operates with only a part-time paid director.  The agency relies on volunteers to fill other needs such as budget counseling, office management, preparation of HOPE House for new residents, and assistance with the home’s upkeep such as painting and yard work.

Contributions may be mailed to the Center’s office, 409 Northwest Third, Suite G, Abilene, Kans., 67410. To volunteer, visit the office between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, or contact the director by phoning (785) 263-4673 or emailing hopectr@eaglecom.net.

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