Branson's House of Hope continues fundraising efforts

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Branson’s House of Hope continues to work hard toward raising the necessary funds to install a sprinkler system, the crucial step in keeping the HOH Warming Center open this coming winter.

The House of Hope warming center provides a warm bed, along with a hot dinner, a nourishing breakfast, an opportunity for a shower, a place to do laundry, and a sense of community for those in our community who have no place to live. The warming center is open on nights that the temperature dips to 32 degrees or lower. Serving the community for the past two winters, the warming center was open 57 nights last winter alone, including all but four nights during the bitter cold month of January 2022.

Weeks ago it looked as if the warming center might not open at all this coming winter. City requirements of a new sprinkler system were cost prohibitive and might force the warming center to permanently close. But, the community stepped up and showed their support in a big way.

“The generosity in our community humbles us,” said House of Hope Services Director Alex Sprinkel. “As we continue to raise funds, we are thankful for the gentle reminders that the Lord provides.”

The original estimate for the sprinkler system was $60,000, far more than the House of Hope could afford. With renewed fundraising efforts, the organization is well on their way to achieving that goal.

“When we decided to start again, we knew the Lord had to make a way. We can’t care for the unsheltered alone,” said Sprinkle. “Over the last several weeks we have been encouraged by the Branson community. Many businesses, community members, and individuals from states away have given their time and resources. As we attended a community outreach event, a gentleman approached the team. He and his wife were faithful volunteers in the warming center last year. He shared his experience of connecting with guests in the warming center and his belief that this is a needed resource in this community. After hearing of the warming center’s current needs, he felt led to give. He offered a matching donation of $10,000, but asked to remain anonymous.”

While the community’s support has been amazing, the warming center is still $8,000 away from their $60,000 goal. You can donate to help them reach that goal and keep the warming center open through their website, Houseofhopebranson.org. Donations can also be made in person or mailed to the House of Hope, 217 Veterans Blvd, Branson, MO 65616.