GENESIS

            Homes of Hope had its beginning at a Mission Retreat in January of 2004 at First Presbyterian Church in Albemarle.  Discussions of transitional housing needs led to a committee forming and a mailing of a survey to social service agencies, service and health organizations, the school system and city officials to see if a need existed in Stanly County.  Nearly all surveys were returned with over half the respondents indicating a need and a desire to help.

            After several organizational meetings, Homes of Hope was founded in April of 2005.  The churches represented agreed to provide living space for temporarily homeless folks while teaming with the agencies working with the families to develop a plan for permanent housing.  The churches also agreed to provide a mentor to offer encouragement and support to program participants. 

            The first family moved in on June 4th, 2005.  The original plan was to have one family the first year and develop the program as the year progressed.  However, several compelling cases of homelessness were brought to the attention of the board of directors and in less than nine months, six families were invited into the program.  Due to the overwhelming need, Skeet Ayscue was hired as the part-time Executive Director in September, 2005.