Holy Cross With abundant gratitude we acknowledge five years of incredible growth made possible by the astounding generosity of many and the amazing grace of one God.
A small but determined group of Help Hub volunteers began welcoming neighbors seeking emergency financial assistance five years ago this month. Thanks to open-minded and collaborative thinking by the leaders of our Founding Member Churches (First Baptist, First Presbyterian and St. James) and the Harrelson Center Staff and Board of Directors, an effort to more effectively and efficiently provide resources in the community was planted. The concept of collaboration has been embraced by others, expanding Help Hub member support and providing a viable avenue for direct community giving. God's amazing grace has and hopefully will continue to work through the Help Hub.
Abundant gratitude to the compassionate volunteers who are the front-line, essential operators of the Help Hub. A rotation of 60-80 dedicated people have been pleasantly greeting, considerately advising and meticulously recording the visits of our neighbors - some day one! Pairing even a small amount of economic assistance, with a smile, an empathetic ear or a kind word provides our volunteers the return on investment that only human interaction can bring. In five years, over 9,000 individuals and their families have been assisted through the Help Hub.
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Collosians 3:17
Incredible Growth Joining in the mission to meet our neighbors needs with a united effort, we have welcomed the participation of sixteen additional funding Members (with tentative pledges of three more!) The increased involvement has enhanced our resources thus strengthening the impact and reach we are able to provide. Over the last several months, a Long Range Planning Committee has developed six action strategies to ensure continued growth and development. Our space has been renovated and expanded to more comfortably accommodate volunteers and neighbors (complete with a special book-nook for young visitors). We have welcomed an on-site Health Care Manager. Additional connections and relationships with community partners are continually made.
Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,
Ephesians 4:15
Astounding Generosity Donations made to the Help Hub range from the much appreciated blessings bags containing snacks, warm socks and hygiene items to financial gifts in the thousands of dollars. With minimal overhead costs, more than 80% of Help Hub income is reinvested in the community. In addition to the funding received by our Members, over 600 monetary donations have been documented in the last five years including contributions through family foundations, personal donations, honorary and memorial gifts. This generosity and that of grant supporters: American Red Cross, Assistance League of Greater Wilmington, Bargain Box of Wilmington, Cape Fear Memorial Foundation, Catherine Kennedy Home Foundation, Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear, Making Waves Foundation, New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Oak Foundation, The Champion McDowell Davis Charitable Foundation has afforded $900,000 to be provided to our neighbors in crisis.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
God's Amazing Grace is evident in the generosity, growth and gratitude given and received over the last five years at the Help Hub. Our growth goes hand in hand with that of the Harrelson Center which continues to expand it's footprint and scope as a place of hope, opportunity and empowerment. It is impossible to quantify the prayerful, personal and financial contributions of countless individuals who have brought the 20 N 4th Street from the place of despair it was 20 years ago, but we know it wouldn't have happened without God's enduring grace.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not of yourselves. It is the gift of God,
Ephesians 2:8
Sonja McFarland, Director
Help Hub at the Harrelson Center
20 N 4th Street, Suite 100
Wilmington, NC 28401
910.769.5357