By Lisa Woodrum
The classical hymn states “Peace on earth, good will toward men.” Goodwill comes in many forms. For instance, goodwill was demonstrated beautifully by the Fort Walton Beach Community “toward” One Hopeful Place (OHP) (our local homeless shelter) this past Christmas. Donna Morgan, Program Manager of OHP shared, “A big shout out and thank you to Community Solutions, Bridgeway, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, [K-Rock radio] the Cold night crew, churches and the community! With your help, we made it through the historically cold four-day journey of Christmas 2022!”
It was the coldest Christmas Florida has experienced in 33 years. OHP stayed open 24 hours, four days straight with 48 participants hosted, who were “appreciative, grateful and helpful,” stated Donna. She recounted numerous expressions of generosity as all meals were provided and served by various people/organizations in those four days! “There were many good times… They all appreciated the comfort and warmth of a bed, full bellies and the feeling of family for Christmas!”
Surely, it was providential that the cold night shelter was completed in November! Transportation has been included as well for those in need from Bridgeway at 3:15 and 4 p.m. on days when the temperature is 40 degrees and below. Food, showers, washing of clothing and beds are provided.
People are homeless for varying reasons; a miniscule percentage have chosen this lifestyle. The majority lack options for affordable housing, they flee from abuse in their homes, or are financially vulnerable in these times.
Bridgeway Center plays an integral part with OHP. OHP uses a “low-barrier model,” (proven very successful), emphasizing clear behavioral expectations, maintaining a safe environment. It purposes to end the cycle of homelessness by extending a “hand up” as they “answer” the varying needs of the individuals through the financial support, donations, instruction, networking, staff and volunteers, enabling participants to exit the homeless lifestyle.
State Representative Pat Maney toured the OHP facility recently. He celebrated it saying, “As a community, the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, City of Fort Walton Beach Public Info, Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners, local businesses, donors and volunteers joined forces to create One Hopeful Place—a beacon of hope for our locals in need…Three cheers for this incredible demonstration of community strength and determination! One Hopeful Place is a jewel of a resource and a shining example of what we’re capable of when we roll-up our sleeves together.”
So much has been accomplished together, but there is much more we need to achieve to realize the end goal-together. Sherry Jones, OHP community public relations director, continues to roll her sleeves up reaching out to churches, organizations, businesses and individuals to rally funds to initiate phase III-the demolition of 10 waste water silos on the grounds (this property was previously a water treatment plant). This will avail five acres of land to then break ground for a resource/education center, additional shelters and affordable housing.
Please be assured, the full vision will not accommodate a “cycle of homelessness,” but END it. To complete the process of liberating these valuable people into self-sufficient, contributing members of society, this formidable financial goal must be realized. To do this, financial support to continue the day-to-day functioning of OHP as well as the ultimate objective, building the aforementioned structures must be acquired.
Consider sponsoring, volunteering, participating or sowing into OHP’s upcoming events such as the International Festival coming up soon March 19 at the Landing in Fort Walton Beach and the Stuart Houston Shootout Golf Tourney April 29 at Regatta Bay in Destin.
“They are “changing lives in a meaningful way and being fiscally responsible,” said a previous successful client of OHP applauding donors. Goodwill isn’t just for Christmas–it is in fashion year ‘round. With goodwill toward these men and women at OHP, they will complete their journey toward peace.
