Stories of Hope

In Their Own Words

"...whoever is kind to the needy honors God." — Proverbs 14:31

One of the most meaningful reminders of why this ministry matters comes from the voices of those we serve.

Each winter, churches throughout Harford County opened their doors to provide shelter, meals, fellowship, and encouragement to individuals experiencing homelessness. Through the Saturday Ministry program, volunteers demonstrated the love of Christ in practical and meaningful ways.

One guest shared: "It gave people like me a place where we could get out of the cold and fellowship and hear about the Word of God around people of God."

Another reflected: "It provided hope and love for the homeless; to continue our lives when we think there is nothing to live for."

A guest who stayed in the shelter this season shared that when he first arrived, he almost didn't come. He had been sleeping on a friend's couch and was uncertain about what to expect. However, he quickly found a welcoming environment filled with kindness, encouragement, and support. Because of the assistance he received through the shelter system, he was able to save money, continue pursuing stability, and begin working toward getting back on his feet.

Stories like these remind us that homelessness does not define a person. Every guest who enters our shelter carries a story, struggles, hopes, and dreams. Through the faithfulness of volunteers and partner organizations, guests are reminded that they are seen, valued, and loved.

Stories shared with permission.

A New Home and a New Chapter

We are excited to share some wonderful news about Tyra and her daughter, former guests of HCHHA’s Emergency Winter Shelter program.

After researching Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) opportunities and waiting lists in different states, Tyra found an opportunity in West Virginia. She and her daughter made the move and were initially welcomed into a fully furnished apartment, complete with basic household necessities, while they waited for their subsidized housing.

Now, their persistence has paid off: Tyra and her daughter have secured a permanent home.

Tyra’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when determination, access to resources and supportive services come together.

HCHHA’s Emergency Winter Shelter provides more than a safe place to stay during the coldest months of the year. Our goal is to help give individuals and families the stability, time and connections they need to take their next steps toward permanent housing.

For Tyra and her daughter, those next steps led to a new state, a new home and a new chapter.

Congratulations, Tyra! We wish you and your daughter happiness, stability and many wonderful memories in your new home.

Looking for Affordable Housing Resources?

Tyra shared that one of the resources she used while researching Housing Choice Voucher opportunities was Affordable Housing Hub. The website provides information about affordable housing and Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists across the country.

Visit AffordableHousingHub.org to learn more.

Story shared with permission.

Grateful for the Hands and Hearts That Helped 

"Good morning,

I just wanted to emphasize, with a very big 'Emp,' how much I truly appreciate all the help, your tireless effort, and the incredible support from all the wonderful and absolutely terrific, caring volunteers at the churches. There have been countless people whose hands, hearts, and souls have been fully involved in this work.

I just wanted to let you know that all of your work and the significant efforts of everyone involved in helping me through this first-time journey of getting back on my feet have been absolutely phenomenal, both in spiritual encouragement and in the thoughtful, practical help provided.

I will never forget you and the others.

First and foremost, a very big thank you and love to God, and to all of you in the Alliance and the programs for being placed in my path when I needed it most.

I hope to see you again at some point in my travels.

God bless."

Story shared with permission.

A Blessing in the Midst of the Storm

One of our guests shared this week how grateful he is for the care and support he has received, especially during a period of cold temperatures, rain, and extreme wind. He expressed appreciation for the warm meals, the time and generosity of volunteers, and the donated food and supplies that made his stay safe and comfortable. Most of all, he shared how meaningful it has been to be inside, surrounded by people who genuinely want to help him get back on his feet, describing the experience as a true blessing.

Story shared with permission.