Churches Work To Bring ‘New Hope’ To Those In Need

Those waiting their turn in 'New Hope' were served lunch while they waited their turn

Oskaloosa, Iowa – With economic times the way they are people are having a tougher and tougher time making ends meet. About 50 local volunteers associated with at least four local churches gathered Saturday morning to help make the lives of some Oskaloosa residents in need a little bit better.

The former Jefferson Elementary School now known as New Hope Community was filled with people Saturday morning as Fellowship Bible Church and First Assembly of God Youth Pastors George Filber and Sean Cully helped to coordinate the project and volunteers. This was the first time this group has attempted to put on such an event.

Just before opening up, the group gathered in the gym for last minute instructions, some scripture, and words of prayer just before the 11:30 AM start time.

Once a person checked in, they were given their own tour guide who assisted them on their journey of services being offered and also shared the gospel with them along the way. Everything from dental checks to seeing a doctor, having your oil changed in your car, or getting a haircut were all offered on Saturday. Each family would also receive one bag of groceries provided by Fareway stores. Fareway was not the only one to help. Many people, who wished not to be identified, stepped up and helped their neighbor.

Smiles like this are just one of many reasons so many cared to lend a hand

Also available during the event was the opportunity for people to select some clothing they needed from the Klothes Kloset. Tonya Rice with the Klothes Kloset said they are trying to help get out as much as they can to help supply clothes to people.

The Kothes Kloset, part of the New Hope Community, is normally open 9-3. Its’ clothing and services help many Oskaloosa and Oskaloosa area families in their time of need. A voucher system that is used by local charities and support groups, was used on Saturday where the people in need could pick out the clothing they wanted, and the cost of that was being picked up by someone else, be it a church, charity or other organization.

The group at Klothes Kloset receives calls from the United Way, Love Inc, Crisis Intervention and other similar organizations. With requested sizes and needs, they will box up clothing to help speed up aid to those in need, such as those who have had a loss during a fire.

The Klothes Kloset takes nearly all donations, with the exception of large furniture items, as space is always an issue with bulky items.

“We’re just trying to meet the needs of the people,” Rice said.

As people were waiting in line for their turn at ‘New Hope’, they were served lunch while they waited. Shortly before 1:00 pm, the line was still stretching out from the building, a testament to the tough economic times, and the caring for their fellow man expressed by so many who volunteered and gave.