Non-Profit Spotlight: Hale Community Ministry touches lives through charitable services
Published 3:42 pm Friday, February 4, 2022
Star Photo/Gracie Fields Hales Community Ministry Director John Shook along with Donna Proffitt (left) and Julie Shook (right).
Star Photo/Gracie Fields Hales Community Ministries operates a clothing closet for those who may have a need for clothing in the community.
Star Photo/Gracie Fields The ministry provides housing for visiting Missionaries.
Star Photo/Gracie Fields A food pantry is well-stocked with canned food and other supplies
Star Photo/Gracie Fields Food bags that were organized by youth.
Star Photo/Gracie Fields Shelves provide ample storage for boxes of food.
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
BY GRACIE FIELDS
STAR CORRESPONDENT
Hale Community Ministry seeks to positively impact the lives of area residents in need.
Founded in 1994 by Rev. Bob Polk, the organization continuously provides for those in need.
“The purpose is to serve those who live in the Carter or Johnson County area through providing food, clothing, and hygiene products,” said John Shook, current Hale Community Ministry director.
Hale Community Ministry is a non-profit Christian ministry that provides Bible studies, food, clothing, counseling and financial services to individuals in need. The primary means of funding comes from the Watauga Association of Baptists, a community of churches that donate money to non-profits who intend on spreading the gospel.
“There are about 90 churches throughout the community who give to the organization,” Shook said.
The organization’s staff consists only of volunteer members, except directors.
Those who choose to volunteer at the organization can participate in events, such as teaching a weekly Bible study and helping organize food bags for those receiving them.
Most volunteers come in association with a local church, but anyone who wishes to help is accepted. They help provide the many services Hale has to offer.
“We distribute food and clothing Monday through Wednesday. Second Harvest provides most of our food and our clothing is all donation-based,” said Shook.
Financial assistance only occurs when the organization has the money it can donate. “Money on hand helps with rent, a variety of bills, and medical needs of clients,” said Shook.
The organization serves about 1,250 families.
“Church groups, mainly youth, help create and organize the food bags that are given to those in need. They also assist in organizing the clothing closet,” Shook said.
Those who receive the supplies are considered clients of Hale Community Ministry. The organization accepts donations and new clients. Donations can be given between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The Carter County office is located at 1301 Arney Street and the Johnson County office is located at 359 Industrial Drive, Monday through Wednesday. To volunteer or become a client of the organization, one can call (423)-547-2560.
