Hope Stories

S2 E11: A Meal Can Change Your Life

Hope begins with a meal. As you look around at the tremendous need, it can be difficult to remain hopeful. But in this episode, you’ll hear Michael’s story – a powerful reminder of the life-change that happens through your generosity and compassion.
“A meal can lead to something incredible,” says Michael. “You can't put a gauge on how incredible it is to have a second chance at life.”
Just $2.70 gives a hot meal to someone in need this Thanksgiving: hopemission.com/donate.

S2 E10: Record Need This Summer

More people are seeking shelter at Hope Mission this summer than ever before. And in the face of such unprecedented need, you might be wondering, “Is there hope?”
In this episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear the inspiring story of how a pregnant refugee found hope through your generosity. And you’ll find out why although the need today is greater than ever, it is not the end of the story.
Give hope today: www.hopemission.com/donate.

S2 E9: Feed Hungry Children Now

As the cost of living continues to increases, Alberta’s already vulnerable families are struggling more than ever to pay the bills, put food on the table, and make ends meet. In fact, one in five Alberta children are living in food insecure households.
“We know what hunger is,” says Leroy, a single dad who receives food support through Hope Mission. “It may seem like a drop in the bucket to most people – what you drop off. But the truth is, when you’re down and out and you don’t have much, it feels good that somebody’s there for me. Not only me, but my boys, especially. This place offers hope.”
In this episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear several stories about the growing need of childhood hunger in our community and how you can help families like Leroy’s right now.
Provide meals and care for hungry children today at hopemission.com/radiothon.What inspired your gift? Let us know at hopestories@hopemission.com.

S2 E8: From Homeless To Helping – Jacinta’s Journey

Less than a year ago, Jacinta was homeless, hungry, and struggling with addiction. Now she’s eight months along on her recovery journey and eager to share the transformation she’s experienced with others.
You’ll hear Jacinta share how she’s learning to deal with triggers and past resentments, where she finds the strength to go on, and what she’s looking forward to next.
Your generosity helps people like Jacinta experience life-change. Give the gift of hope this Easter at hopemission.com.

S2 E7: From Hopeless To Loved

Sheldon’s addiction took his home, his job, and even his desire to live. But after the 24/7 Rescue Van brought him to Hope Mission, Sheldon’s life went in a completely different direction.
Sheldon enrolled in Breakout, Hope Mission’s year-long addiction recovery program for men, and is now nearly six months in. In this episode, you’ll hear how Sheldon discovered that he is needed, wanted, and loved, and how he looks forward to giving back by helping others in their own recovery.
Just $2.70 provides a special holiday dinner to a neighbour in need. Give the gift of hope this Easter: www.hopemission.com/donate.

S2 E6: Holly’s Story – From Humiliation To Hope

A year ago, an alcohol addiction cost Holly her home, her job, and her relationships with her kids. But now, she’s nearly 10 months sober in her journey of recovery.
In this episode, you’ll hear Holly share how her family’s history of alcoholism and her childhood experiences of pain and humiliation pushed her to drinking, and how the gift of community and the grace of God give her the strength to deal with the pain of her past and chart a hopeful future.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.

S2 E5: Ride To The Rescue

There is an increasing number of people living out in the cold. The Hope Mission Rescue Van reaches out to vulnerable neighbours across Edmonton and offers food, life-changing care, and support.
In this episode, you’ll hear how Rick went from lying frozen in the snow behind a dumpster to receiving food, shelter, and warm clothes. You’ll hear how Terry’s feet were spared amputation because Hope Mission staff found him before his severe frostbite got any worse. And you’ll hear how one man, freezing and alone at a bus stop, will never forget the night the rescue van offered him a ride.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.

S2 E4: Hope Begins With A Breakfast – Michael’s Story

One year ago, Michael was living on the street, with no job and no hope. Today, he’s seven months sober. And as it so often does, it all began with a meal.
In this special episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear Michael’s remarkable story of transformation, from growing up with the scars of his parents’ alcohol use, struggling with his own addictions as an adult, and planning a suicide attempt that was foiled when his pen died; to finding a second chance at life through recovery, community, and faith.
“If it wasn’t for Hope Mission, I’d either be dead or I’d still be on the street outside,” says Michael. “A meal can lead to something incredible. That’s where it started for me. And you can’t put a price tag on that.”
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.

S2 E3: Left For Dead

Brian was found lying in a snowbank after being beaten and robbed on Boxing Day. As he recovers from severe frostbite, Brian offers his perspective on staying in a Hope Mission shelter and shares his gratitude for people like you.
And you’ll learn the significance of being recognized and called by your name when you’re feeling marginalized and all alone.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.

S2 E2: Christmas Dinner Highlights

Oilers’ captain Connor McDavid explains why the Hope Mission Family Christmas Dinner is special to him. And one of our guests shares how simply being recognized at a Christmas dinner means more than you’d ever know.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.