Born in Guatemala, Liseth’s childhood was marked by challenges and separation from her parents. She was raised by her grandmother while her parents worked in the U.S., holding on to the hope of one day reuniting with them. That dream became reality in 2022 when her visa was approved, and she was finally able to Read More
Before coming to Center of Hope, Renee was going through one of the hardest seasons of her life. She was experiencing homelessness, living in a hotel, and struggling to find food. When she reached out for help, she was connected with a life coach, Beth, who introduced her to the CALM class. “I was excited Read More
For Iris, Christmas has looked different these last few years. Life changed dramatically when Iris and her husband began raising their 10-year-old grandson after the sudden passing of their son-in-law. Times have been tough since her husband’s long-time cabinet business closed during COVID, and his health has made things even more difficult. He struggles with Read More
For years, Mary, also known to everyone as “Queen Mary”, was more than a guest to many at Center of Hope. She had her own table in the dining room, where friends naturally gathered around her. Birthdays were celebrated there, not just hers but those of the people she cared about. When someone was struggling, Read More
In her 50s, Lavone chased a dream that many thought was out of reach. Lavone first walked through the doors of Springtown Center of Hope looking for groceries. What she found was a place of hope, healing, and opportunity. Growing up in Grand Prairie, Lavone’s childhood was marked by abuse and instability. She dropped out Read More
This year’s theme for Camp Hope was “Our faith can move mountains” (Matthew 17:20). One part of the curriculum involved working together on a craft project. The campers created something truly meaningful – a neighborhood library. The wooden bookcase is covered with the painted handprints of the campers, and community members will keep it stocked Read More
Londyn grew up in an environment of abuse where she struggled to find her self-worth. At just 15, her father was incarcerated, and her mother was too ill to care for her. Forced to grow up far too soon, she moved in with a friend for shelter and support. At 16, Londyn discovered she was Read More
At Center of Hope, we are often reminded that God’s timing is always perfect—and last month, we witnessed it in a powerful way. Monica, a participant, is a single mother working towards her GED and U.S. citizenship. Her journey is filled with challenges, especially as she cares for her junior high son, who is on Read More
When retired pastor Van N. Houser first spoke with Center of Hope’s CEO, Staci Markwardt, about the idea of launching a volunteer chaplain program, her response was enthusiastic—and the spark of a new ministry was lit. Van and fellow North Side Baptist Church retiree Burton Cook soon reached out to other retired ministers, gathering those Read More
Laura had always been a caregiver. Since becoming a single mother at 18, she dedicated herself to raising her child while balancing work and pursuing an education at Weatherford College. However, without a strong support system, her dreams took a backseat to her family’s immediate needs. She entered an unhealthy relationship that controlled her life, Read More
