April 2023 Newsletter

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART


This is a season to reflect on the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. There would be a lot of things that would be different in this world if Jesus had not come into our world. The New Hope Shelter is starting its nineteenth year of existence this month serving Homeless Men, women and families. Christian institutions like ours would not exist if Jesus had not come.

I am celebrating the start of my fourth year as Executive Director in June. I would not be here in Newton KS serving in that capacity if Jesus had not come. What a profound difference he has made in my life, and I am so thankful.

I am reminded every day that we serve a population that has experienced brokenness and hard times. I am happy to say that with your help we have been able to show them care and compassion—and our volunteers have shown them that same thing—in the name of Jesus. We are able to serve Homeless and hungry people every day because of your support. We do not receive any tax dollars, so it is your support that makes this work possible.
 
We Love You.

Brian Bisbee


Transitions...

After two years of service Shonda Suddeth has resigned as Shelter Coordinator and Volunteer Coordinator and is moving to Dallas Texas. We appreciate her service. As we look for a suitable replacement, the position will be filled by Marilyn Bisbee.
If you need some assistance, feel free to contact her at 283-7711.


A BIG THANKS TO...


All of you who braved the elements on March 24th to come out to the Groundbreaking at 308 Meridian Road. We had a good crowd and a great time of sharing. We prayed that the weather would hold, and not rain. For the most part we had our prayers answered. There were only a few sprinkles.

The Students of the Nursing program at Hesston College who brought us four vehicles full of Food, clothing, and supplies on April 12th. We appreciate the efforts you made and your continuing support.

The students of Burrton High School who did a Penny fundraiser for the Shelter. Thanks for all your efforts. You really showed that you cared.
 


Sometimes the Stay is Short


We offered housing at the Shelter to a young woman who was headed for a long-term program in a nearby town. She only stayed for three nights but was able to transition to her new program. With your support we were able to extend that opportunity to her—perhaps impacting the rest of her life.


Knee high fencing is now stretched around the perimeter of the new Shelter site. Stakes are driven in the ground. Loads of dirt and gravel are being dropped off at the site and earth moving equipment is smoothing the site. You know things are starting to get serious when a porta-potty appears on the site.

Thanks to all of you who have supported this effort. By the end of the year, we will have a new permanent home at 308 South Meridian Road. We have only around $44,750 to raise to secure the $1,000,000 Mabee Foundation challenge grant that will complete our fundraising for the building, furnishings, and equipment.

If you would like to sponsor a room as a family, business, organization or church, please give Brian Bisbee a call at 316-283-7711.


Speaking of Food


As you may know our meals at night are provided by Teams from various churches. Inflation has jacked up food prices as we all realize. We appreciate all of you who share frozen meat with us. We can pass it on to our Teams who prepare our food to use it for our dinners. That keeps food costs down. Thanks. If you have any questions, please give Brian Bisbee a call at 316-283-7711.


Turn Things Around

Recent studies out this week say that 70% of the families in America are facing financial stress and that 58% are living paycheck to paycheck. It is possible to turn things around in your own situation by taking some concrete steps.

  • Ask the Lord to guide you in your spending and saving.

  • Bring coffee to work from home rather than stopping at the convenience store.

  • Bring your lunch from home instead of eating out.

  • Stop accumulating credit card debt and start paying more than the minimum payments on your credit cards.

Teaspoons—used are fine
Milk
Pancake syrup
Lunch meat
Salad dressing

Aluminum foil

Toilet paper
Saran wrap
Sandwich bags
Mayonnaise & Miracle Whip


Our mission at New Hope Shelter, Inc. is to provide a sanctuary for those experiencing homelessness in Harvey, Marion, McPherson and Butler counties by uniting the local church into a nurturing community which restores hope through a growing relationship with Christ. 

It is through the love of Christ we share with those in need of hope.

Executive Director - Brian Bisbee
brian@newhope-shelter.org
316-283-7711