Rachel Dove-Baldwin
Staff Writer
GOODY, Ky. — Since 1989, the HOPE (Helping Our Poor Exist) Foundation has been helping to meet the needs of those less fortunate. This tradition is not only still in existence, the group of dedicated volunteers is stronger than ever, as they find themselves stepping forward to assist more families than ever before.
With the local economy suffering from lay-offs and closures of several businesses, it has become more difficult for area residents to adequately provide for their families. Knowing that there is a place they can turn to that will assist them with non-perishable groceries takes a certain degree of pressure and stress off of the shoulders of those who have found themselves down on their luck.
Tina and David Varney oversee the HOPE Foundation, as they have for several years. The couple is committed to lending a hand to those who qualify, and stated that they have been blessed to have the continued support of the local Food City store and area churches, and without them, the food pantry could not provide for near the amount of individuals that it does.
On Friday, Tina Varney, on behalf of the Board of Directors of HOPE, was presented a check in the amount of $2,750 that she said will be a tremendous help in purchasing food for the needy. Susan Maynard, the manager for the Goody, Ky. Food City made the presentation, and remarked that the majority of the amount came from shoppers making monetary donations while in the store, that was then earmarked for HOPE.
“I hope that seeing this check being placed in the hands of Tina will help the public realize that when they make donations of food items or money, it stays in our area. We take care of our own,” stated Maynard.
“God has really blessed us,” commented Varney. “When we first formed the HOPE Foundation, we really went through some lean times and we struggled. Thanks to businesses such as Food City and local churches that bring us monetary contributions or food items, we can breathe a little easier now. We can’t begin to express how grateful we are for the support we receive.”
The Williamson division of HOPE is restricted to assisting families in a certain area, but will gladly provide information to others who may not fall in their district as to where they can apply. The necessary paperwork an applicant needs to have with them on their first visit to HOPE is an electric bill in their name that shows their 911 address and a picture ID. It also helps if you have documentation as to how many people reside in the household, but is not required. Varney stated that the HOPE Foundation has to follow government guidelines in place, and is required to comply with all rules that have set.
“We receive government commodities that we distribute to families who qualify, so we have to follow their guidelines to continue to get their help,” explained Varney.
Varney said she wanted to encourage anyone that has extra time to contact her about volunteering with the foundation and remarked that an extra set of hands are always welcomed and appreciated.
The number for the HOPE Foundation is 606-353-4923. If you think you or someone that you know would qualify for the assistance they provide, you are encouraged to contact the Varney’s.
Post a Comment
