House of Hope provides more than warmth

House of Hope, which operates as a warming center during extremely cold weather and a cooling center during excessive heat, has become an integral part of the community.

During winter months, House of Hope opens the warming center any night that temperatures are forecasted to dip to 32 degrees or lower. Right now, with the current warming trend, the staff and volunteers at House of Hope are enjoying a well deserved break. The recent cold snap Branson experienced meant House of Hope was very busy.

"House of Hope operated for 19 days straight, starting January 14 and ending on February 2," explained House of Hope's Alex Sprinkle. "During this long stretch, we kept the center open around the clock for three days, when the snow and ice came. While the warming center is currently closed due to spring-like temperatures, we have operated 38 days this season, with the potential of a few more before spring is here to stay."

Guests of the warming center are provided with a warm dinner, snacks, a safe place to unwind and sleep, and a warm breakfast before they leave. Guests are also invited to use both shower and laundry facilities during their stay. When the warming center is operating, it opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 7 a.m.

"In an average night in the warming center, you would witness a group of guests watching TV, several engaging in a friendly game of cards, and others talking around the table," said Sprinkle.

Sprinkle and the team at House of Hope work hard to foster a feeling of community among those who utilize House of Hope's services.

"Community is at the root of everything we do. As a team, we believe that community support helps foster sustainable change. Having a team of people to love on you is invaluable, especially during a time of need," Sprinkle noted.  "Additionally, House of Hope relies on an aspect of community to operate. So many businesses and individuals in our community help us to love others well. They use their time, talents and resources to generously serve."

One of the most pressing needs currently at House of Hope is coffee.

"When the warming center is not operating, the Advocacy Office continues to serve breakfast and offer showers and laundry to our guests, Monday through Friday. As you can imagine, our coffee maker is always brewing," said Sprinkle.

The Advocacy Office at House of Hope is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sprinkle added," We are forever grateful to the Branson community. Businesses, individuals, churches and other ministries join us to love our guests well. They provide food, snacks, manpower and support in ways we can't begin to describe."