Hope Community Of Shalom Inc

Programs: Hope/shalom administered programs about 40 children from dupre elementary school attend "shalom readers" each tuesday and thursday after school for tutoring, nutrition, and enrichment opportunities including the kid's cafe which provides a hot meal in partnership with the south plains food bank. These programs continue during the summer 3 days per week. "books for kids" provides a free library and reading room for use by children and adults and gives away several thousand donated books to children in the neighborhood to foster a love of reading and enhance academic success later in life. Computer and internet access is available for people to apply for jobs, medicaid, food stamps and other benefits. Software to assist in ged preparation and english as a second language is available and supported by volunteer mentors. Telephone, fax, and copier services are also available to neighbors in need. These services are utilized by approximately 6 persons per week. Sunday evening activities provide assistance to homeless and low income adults and families. "loaves and fishes" is a food pantry operated in cooperation with the south plains food bank providing a food box to an average of 150 persons per week. Donated clothing is also available free of charge to those who need it. Volunteers prepare, sort, and distribute food and clothing in these programs. "fiesta domingo" provides a free hot meal to an average of 100 persons each week along with a brief optional inspirational message. Food is provided by local churches and civic groups on a rotating basis. Fellowship ministriesasbury united methodist church uses the building for worship, study, and office space, and supports other hope activities by paying rent and providing volunteers for our programs. Approximately 40 persons from our neighborhood participate in this multi-ethnic congregation. Creative ministries is a children's program sponsored by jan taylor and lakeridge united methodist church. Children meet twice a week after school with activities designed to instill pride, character, and positive values through dance, drama, music, and crafts. Intimacy church is an independent church congregation serving a low income multi-ethnic population and leasing space in our building for office and worship activities.