Connection in the Dining Room

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 the autism spectrum and is non-verbal.

One morning before lunch service, our team gathered as usual to share updates and pray over the people we serve. Hartin Tree Service was our volunteer host that day, and they took a few moments to share about The AUsome Allen Foundation—a nonprofit they lead that supports families affected by autism and is currently building an inclusive playground for children of all abilities. Several of the volunteers from Hartin Tree Service are mothers of children with autism. One of our staff members, familiar with Monica’s challenges as a mother of a son on the autism spectrum, knew this was a connection she needed. As Monica listened and learned about the foundation, tears welled up in her eyes—tears of relief, hope, and joy. The encounter opened the door to a new source of support and a sense of encouragement she had long been missing.

We are deeply grateful for the generosity of the volunteers from Hartin Tree Service and for the beautiful ways God continues to weave stories of hope, healing, and community here at Center of Hope.