BEDFORD — Local churches and restaurants across Bedford will once again partner later this month for Serving Hope, a multi-night fundraiser benefiting Hope Resource Center.
The event places pastors, church staff, and church members in local restaurants as volunteer servers, with all tips and proceeds donated directly to Hope. According to event coordinator Hannah Wade, community participation continues to grow.
“Many local churches” are involved, Wade said, noting that “pastors and church staff come out to work.” She added that there is still room for more restaurants and churches to participate.
Serving Hope raised nearly $22,000 last year, and organizers are aiming higher this time. “Our goal for this year is $25,000,” Wade said.
The fundraiser will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. at several locations. It begins Monday, Jan. 19, at Apron Strings, followed by Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Smokin’ Jim’s. On Thursday, Jan. 22, volunteers will serve at both Holt’s Cafe and Golden Corral. The following week, Mundell Christian Church will host its own Serving Hope event on Friday, Jan. 30.
Wade said Serving Hope is a vital source of funding for the nonprofit. “Serving Hope is our second largest fundraiser, with our Vision Dinner being our number one,” she said. “This event gives pastors, church members, and local restaurants the opportunity to get involved and partner with Hope Resource Center, and we greatly appreciate them.”
She said the weeklong effort is about more than fundraising. “It’s a great week of uniting with a common goal of saving babies and helping families,” Wade said.
Hope Resource Center serves a broad range of people caring for children. “Moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends — anyone who is involved in the life of a child” can receive help, Wade said.
The center, located at 717 Lincoln Avenue, Suite G, in Bedford, provides services including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, parenting classes, material assistance, fatherhood mentoring, and a mobile pregnancy unit. Hope also offers peer counseling and life coaching; teen parent support groups; prayer; postpartum meal trains and support baskets; pregnancy and infant loss support groups; referrals to medical, foster care, and family resources; and community outreach programs.
Organizers encourage community members to dine out during Serving Hope nights to support Hope Resource Center’s work in Lawrence County.
