YORK, Pa. — For nearly two decades, New Hope Ministries has been on a mission to support local families facing hardship.
As the holiday season approaches, the organization's work takes on added urgency.
"Folks come here for help with food, help with heat, help with housing...help finding a job," explained Executive Director Eric Saunders. "And they find a bunch of caring people and resources to get them back on track."
New Hope provides a vital safety net, assisting individuals and families with basic needs, while empowering them towards self-sufficiency.
Saunders has witnessed the organization's impact firsthand.
"I've seen God work in my life and many, many other people's lives everyday," he shared. "It's great to see people who can't find their next meal find hope...and I feel like I'm a part of that."
With Thanksgiving next week, New Hope is currently in need of holiday food donations, especially turkeys. But their work continues year-round.
"As soon as Thanksgiving is over, we move right into our Christmas Blessings program, where we provide a Christmas meal and gifts to low income families in need," Saunders said.
The organization relies on both material and monetary donations, as well as volunteer support, to fulfill its mission.
Saunders emphasizes the meaningful difference even small contributions can make.
"Sadly, we're still in a period of increasing need," he said. "The folks who feel that most are low income families."
By bridging gaps and setting families up for long-term success, New Hope Ministries aims to make a lasting difference in its local community.
"We were all put here for a reason and I think it's to make a difference in the lives of other people," Saunders reflected.
Whether through holiday donations or year-round support, the public can play a vital role in empowering New Hope's work. As Saunders puts it, "It's amazing to see somebody...get to the point where they don't need agencies like New Hope anymore."
You can bring food donations to "Bright Nights York," at WellSpan Park from Nov. 22 through Nov. 27.
New Hope Ministries is asking for peanut butter, cereal, canned goods and diapers.
Feel free to drop those items at the FOX43 Donation Station, on site.
Bright Nights runs Tuesday-Sunday, through December 30th.