Moving_Forward Magazine Spring 2026

SPRING 2026

A Walk Toward Hope: Greg’s Journey of Restoration From devastating loss and homelessness to purpose and renewal, Greg’s journey is a powerful testament to second chances and rebuilding a life with hope.

SPRING 2026 Founder's Forum Stories of hope, transformation, and compassion through Matthew’s Hope.

Remembering Pastor Frankie Gallo & David “Catfish” Durden I Am Still a Success Story.

From facing federal charges to becoming a homeowner, Janine’s journey is a powerful story of redemption, resilience, and self-made success.

Success at Kroger, Tragedy at Home: Katie’s Story From corporate success to rock bottom and back, Katie’s story is one of survival, healing, and finding hope through resilience and support.

16 Years – Should We Celebrate?

Celebrating 16 years of impact, Matthew’s Hope continues to grow out of necessity—providing dignity, support, and a path to independence for those facing homelessness.

What Do The Homeless Look Like?

A closer look at homelessness, revealing the daily challenges of survival, dignity, and access to basic needs.

Matthew’s Hope Launches New App

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The new Matthew’s Hope app enhances communication, offering real-time updates, resources, and support for both guests and the community.

The Ministry of the Still Face Why observation and communication is our greatest Tool

Matthew’s Hope Receives Platinum Rating from GuideStar

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Restoring Dignity, One Load at a Time Clean clothes mean more than comfort—they restore dignity, protect health, and remind our guests they are valued.

Help Park Hope Across Brevard Host sites and drivers needed as sleeper bus program prepares to launch.

Meeting the Need in Every Season: Matthew’s Hope in Action Matthew’s Hope opened its doors through repeated cold nights, continuing to serve despite a growing financial strain.

Faces of Hope A spotlight for those who pour into Matthew's Hope.

Matthew's Hope Founder Scott Billue

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President Shelley Bradford

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Photography Jon Burket

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Writers Marc Jablon, Scott Billue, Sarah Dewitz, Shelley Bradford, Shannon Diaz, Mark McWaters

Graphics, Layout and Design Amanda Kumpulainen Orange County Administrative Offices 611 Business Park Blvd. #101 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Phone: (407) 905-9500 Email: info@mhm25.org Monday - Friday 8 am- 4 pm Brevard County Administrative Offices 825 Forrest Avenue Cocoa, FL 32922 brevardinfo@mhm25.org Phone: (407) 905-9500 (ext. 2) Orange County Firm Foundation Preschool & Daycare 740 9th St, Winter Garden, FL 34787 Brevard County Firm Foundation Preschool & Daycare 825 Forrest Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922 Orange County Outreach Center 611 Business Park Blvd, St. 101.

Winter Garden, FL 34787 Mon-Friday: 8-4 Saturday: 8-2 Brevard County Outreach Center 825 Forrest Avenue Cocoa FL 32922 Mon-Friday: 8-4 Saturday: 8-2 Orange County Hope Chest Store 1027 S Dillard St, Winter Garden, FL 34787 Monday- Saturday: 10am-4pm Brevard County Hope Chest Store 830 Forrest Avenue Cocoa, FL 32922 Brevard County Trinity Oaks 825 Forrest Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922 Courtney@Trinityoaksvenues.org Phone: (321) 514-6215

Founder’s Forum This edition of Moving Forward Magazine explores “success”. What does it mean to be successful? At Matthew’s Hope, we ask that question daily. What does success really look like? Is it a new bus, meeting a fundraising goal, or is it something more personal?

This magazine is filled with stories of success. We’ll follow Greg, Katie, and Janine’s stories on how they used our Moving Forward Program to help them go from a life of homelessness to lives of self-sustainability. And at the same time, we also learn that sometimes success is the psychological lift that comes with the scent of clean laundry.

Speaking of laundry, I started Matthew’s Hope 16 years ago handing out socks in Winter Garden. Excuse me if sometimes I become emotional when I hear the success stories from our guests, but I just can’t help it. For example, I was completely blown away to learn that Janine just signed papers to move into her new house.

It’s ironic that what started as a temporary freeze warning shelter for the homeless during dangerously cold weather conditions has rapidly expanded multiple times over the years.

This winter we had to open our doors eight times, consisting of several days each, to shelter these souls during these cold weather conditions. I have no doubt we will need to do it again during the summer, as our homeless guests will need to deal with extreme heat and the upcoming hurricane season. It’s with this in mind that we decided to launch the Matthew’s Hope App. That way we can quickly notify our donors and guests of news and events that may affect them.

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As Matthew’s Hope celebrates its 16th anniversary, we will continue to be proactive. We will look for opportunities to offer comfort, relief, and support to our homeless guests. Most importantly, we want to continue to provide these folks with the dignity they deserve. When we share the stories of our homeless guests, we hope that you see yourselves in the mirror.

We want you to see the souls we serve as real people, worthy of being treated with dignity, love, and compassion.

Next time you see someone you perceive to be homeless, I ask that you stop and pause for a moment and just ask yourself this, what could have taken place in that person’s life that made living that way acceptable?

I cannot close this brief message without addressing the recent loss of multiple beloved Matthew’s Hope Staff members. First, David Durden, who lived his life in ministry within Matthew’s Hope and other avenues. We also remember Frankie Gallo, my longtime friend, partner and brother in Christ. Frankie had been sick for a very long time and we did all we could to make sure a roof remained overhead while he fought the good fight, but the Lord finally called him home. Without a doubt, I am certain that he heard the words he longed to hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant”. Brother Frankie, as many knew him by, was a fisher of men, day and night, until his very last breath. My heart will never be whole again, but I would not trade my time with Frankie Gallo for anything.

He truly was my brother in every sense of the word.

In honor of Frankie and David, let us continue to move forward together and be the change we all want to see in our communities. The invitation is open and there is always room at our table.

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MATTHEWSHOPEMINISTRIES.ORG

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Remembering

Pastor Frankie Gallo

By Sarah Dewitz

The news of Pastor Frankie Gallo’s passing has been met with both sorrow and gratitude. While hearts are heavy, there is also a deep sense of assurance in knowing he is now in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served. His earthly journey came to a close recently, and those who knew him take comfort in the belief that he was welcomed with the words he had long lived toward.

Many affectionately called him Brother Frankie, a name that captured the closeness he created with others. He did not place distance between himself and the people he served. Instead, he met them where they were, offering kindness, attention, and dignity, especially to those often overlooked. His connection to Matthew’s Hope began early on, working closely with the ministry’s founder, Pastor Scott. Over the years, their relationship grew into something far deeper than coworkers. It became a partnership rooted in shared faith and countless experiences in ministry. Together, they walked through moments that shaped both the organization and the lives of those it served. Pastor Scott reflected on that bond as one built on trust, brotherhood, and a shared calling.

Frankie’s role within the ministry evolved from volunteer to staff member, but his heart for the work never changed. He consistently showed up with a willingness to serve and a desire to connect. Whether speaking with guests, offering encouragement, or lifting someone up in prayer, he approached each interaction with sincerity.

In recent years, Frankie faced significant health challenges. Despite this, he remained committed to the people and mission he loved. He continued to visit Matthew’s Hope whenever he was able, determined to remind others that they were not forgotten. His willingness to continue pouring into others, even while enduring hardship, spoke volumes about his character.

He made it a point to pray with anyone who needed it, offering not just words, but genuine care and compassion. His presence carried a sense of reassurance, and many found comfort simply in being around him. Pastor Frankie Gallo leaves behind a legacy defined by service, humility, and a deep commitment to others. His influence is seen in the lives he touched and the relationships he built over the years. Though he is no longer physically present, the impact of his work and the example he set will continue to resonate within the community he loved so well.

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Remembering

David “Catfish” Durden

By Sarah Dewitz

The life of David “Catfish” Durden was marked by a presence that people did not easily forget. One of the first things many recall is his unmistakable laughter. It carried strength and volume, yet at the same time, it had a calming quality that could put others at ease.

That combination reflected who David was at his core, a man full of life who also knew how to meet people in their most vulnerable moments.

His faith was not something he kept in the background.

It shaped how he lived, how he spoke, and how he treated others. David consistently gave his time and energy to serving those around him. Through Matthew’s Hope, he helped provide meals to individuals experiencing homelessness. At Faith Family Fellowship, he supported the food pantry, helping meet practical needs within the community. As part of the Spirit Riders Motorcycle Ministry, he joined in praying over motorcycles and the people connected to them, turning even ordinary moments into opportunities for ministry.

David’s spiritual life was steady and deeply rooted. He was known as someone who turned to prayer often and believed fully in the power of faith. Alongside his wife Betty, he spent many years at Rockledge Baptist Church. Their long history there was confirmed in a meaningful way when a cornerstone opened in 2025 revealed their names dating back to the 1980s. It served as a quiet testament to decades of commitment and devotion.

He spoke openly about his relationship with Jesus, not out of obligation, but out of genuine conviction.

Conversations with David often revealed his heart, one that was grounded in truth and guided by love. The way he lived reinforced the words he shared, making his faith visible to those around him.

At home, David was deeply connected to his family. He and Betty shared 61 years of marriage, a milestone built on loyalty, perseverance, and care for one another. He is remembered by his sisters Gloria Douglas, Dorafaye Bridges, and Brenda Libatory, his brother James Durden, and his children Timmy Durden, Tammy Miller, and Scott Durden. To them, his absence is deeply personal, but so is the legacy he leaves behind.

David’s impact reaches far beyond any one role or title.

It lives on in the people he encouraged, the lives he served, and the faith he demonstrated daily. His memory remains a steady reminder of a life lived with purpose and sincerity.

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“I am still a success story.”

By Shannon Diaz

Janine, a former guest of Matthew’s Hope, joined us on our podcast, as part of our Real Faces of Homelessness series. Janine spent a significant amount of time in the Moving Forward program before choosing to leave before graduation. What may have seemed like a failure at the time ended up being an incredible success.

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From Federal Charges to Homeowner

A Legal Miracle

When Janine first walked through the

The stakes for Janine were higher than

doors of Matthew’s Hope in October

most. She was facing 15 years in prison

2021, she wasn’t just looking for a

on a complex case involving the DEA, a

meal or a place to rest; she was facing

situation so daunting that no attorney

a mountain that seemed impossible to

wanted to take it on. The weight of that

climb. By her own account, it was only

potential sentence hung over her ev-

“by the grace of God” and a life-chang-

ery day, threatening to take her away

ing conversation with Shannon that

from her daughter and her future.

she found the courage to step into the

Through the advocacy and support

Moving Forward Program.

of the Moving Forward Program,

Janine was finally able to secure legal

Defining Success

representation. In a turn of events that

“I am still a success story because

felt like a miracle, the charges were re-

I utilized all the tools I learned. It

duced to pre-trial Intervention (PTI).

was such an impactful two years…I

Janine didn’t just meet the require-

am now 2 years and 10 months so-

ments; she excelled. After completing

ber, I got a promotion at work, and

two years of PTI, all charges against her

then last Friday I signed the pa-

were officially dropped.

pers and bought a house” - Janine.

The Architect of Her Own Life

Janine’s story challenges the traditional

While the legal battle was won in the

definition of “graduation.” Though she

courtroom, the personal battle was

didn’t technically graduate from the

won in the details of daily life. Janine

program, her life is the ultimate suc-

used her time in the program to under-

cess story. Since leaving the program,

go a total financial and personal trans-

she hasn’t just stayed afloat. She has

formation. She focused on becoming a

soared. She is currently celebrating

model of self-sufficiency and a mother

nearly three years of continuous so-

her daughter could look up to.

briety, the longest stretch of her entire life.

In a crowning achievement of her hard

STRAIGHT TALK, NO B.S., WITH MATTHEW'S HOPE PRODUCED BY IMAGINE

Scan the QR code to listen to "Real Faces of Homelessness with Janine - Ep. 110"

work and newfound financial stability, Janine recently purchased a home entirely on her own. This milestone, coupled with a recent promotion at her job, serves as a powerful testament to what happens when a person’s determination meets the right support system.

“I didn’t graduate,” Janine says, “but I am still a success story!” Today, she stands as a homeowner, a leader in her workplace, and most importantly, a present and powerful example for her daughter.

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THANK YOU FOR JOINING US AT GIVING ON THE GREEN!

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Celebrate Your Next Event at Trinity Oaks at Matthew’s Hope!

By Courtney Woolbright

We’re pleased to announce that we have launched a new website for our Trinity Oaks Event Venue at Matthew’s Hope!

The new website is com-

corporate function, or a cele-

pletely funded from opera-

bratory gathering with loved

tions at Trinity Oaks. In fact,

ones, Trinity Oaks delivers!

for the last two years Trinity

But we think the best part is

Oaks has been hosting in-

that when you book an event

credible events at Matthew’s

at Trinity Oaks, you’re help-

Hope Ministries in Cocoa,

ing support Matthew’s Hope.

FL and contributing its gross profits back to Matthew’s

Venue packages include the

Hope. The revenue generat-

Ceremony Sanctuary, Court-

ed from booking the facilities

yard, Reception Hall, and

helps offset the ongoing cost

Bridal Suites. Trinity Oaks has

of operations.

assembled a list of preferred vendors from caterers, flo-

The new website takes visi-

rists, live entertainment, and

tors on a virtual tour of the

so much more. For more in-

Event Venue. The pictur-

formation about Trinity Oaks,

esque venue offers the per-

please contact Courtney at

fect setting for your dream

courtney@trinityoaksvenues.

event, whether it be a breath-

org or visit

taking wedding ceremony, a

www.trinityoaksvenues.org.

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Success at Kroger, Tragedy at Home: Katie’s Story

By Shannon Diaz This year at Matthew’s Hope we have a campaign, “Have you ever met someone who was homeless?” The reason behind this campaign is due to people like Katie, who had a successful career, yet still found herself on the streets.

The trajectory of Katie’s life once looked like the ultimate blueprint for American success. By age 15, Katie was already climbing the ranks at Kroger. While her peers were navigating college life, Katie was balancing a budding corporate career with a bachelor’s degree in communications.

The momentum was undeni-

in a marriage that became a prison of

able. Katie earned five promo-

physical and psychological violence.

tions in five years, purchased her

Like many facing this unimaginable

first home, and had a career which

trauma, Katie turned to substances to

spanned nearly two decades. But

cope.

beneath the polished surface of corporate achievement, a differ-

The years that followed were a blur of

ent story was beginning to unfold,

hospitals, rehab centers, and near-fa-

one marked by the heavy toll of

tal encounters. Katie survived multiple

restructuring, high-pressure con-

overdoses, including a terrifying mo-

sulting, and the quiet, devastat-

ment where paramedics had to bring

ing creep of domestic turmoil.

her back to life. The loss of her career was followed by the heartbreaking loss

The Spiral of Survival

of her father, pushing her further into a

What began as a career transition

cycle of grief and daily drug use.

spiraled into a decade-long battle

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with drug addiction and domestic

After a series of arrests and a desper-

abuse. After 17 years in the indus-

ate cross-country flight that ended

try she loved, Katie found herself

when her gas tank ran dry in Florida,

STRAIGHT TALK, NO B.S., WITH MATTHEW'S HOPE

Katie found herself at the absolute

A New Chapter Today

edge. Homeless, living in tents, and

Today, Katie’s story isn’t defined by the

trapped in a cycle of incarceration and

17 years in corporate sales or the years

further victimization, Katie reached a

spent in the shadows of addiction. It is

breaking point in a local motel.

defined by her resilience and the commu-

PRODUCED BY IMAGINE

Scan the QR code to listen to "Real Faces of Homelessness with Katie - Ep. 112"

nity that refused to let her slip through

“I was either going to end my life or be killed,” Katie recalls.“In that moment of total darkness, “I started to pray”.

the cracks. As a guest in the Moving Forward program, she is reclaiming the structure and purpose that once drove her, but this time, it’s built on a foundation of safety, sobriety, and support. Katie’s journey is a powerful reminder that an empty “gas tank” can be refilled, and with prayer and a plan, there is always a path back to peace.

Finding the Light in Winter Garden That prayer led to a crisis hot line, which then led to a ride towards Orlando. Katie eventually landed in a place called “The Living Room” in Pine Hills. It was during a Thursday visit to Matthew’s Hope that a shift happened. Stepping onto the grounds, Katie didn’t just see a service provider; she felt an overwhelming sense of peace and the distinct feeling of being “home.”

Through the advocacy of her mother and the persistence of the Matthew’s Hope team, the doors to a new life began to open. Three weeks after entering residential treatment, Daniel and Shannon from Matthew’s Hope arrived to transition Katie into the Moving Forward program.

On the left, a life unraveling. On the right, a life rebuilt. Katie’s journey is proof that no one is ever too far gone for a new beginning.

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16 Years – Should We Celebrate?

A

By Scott Billue

s the founder of Mat-

It’s ironic that what started as a

All the growth that Matthew’s Hope

thew’s Hope, the most

temporary shelter for the homeless

Ministries has experienced over the

difficult question is how

during freezing weather conditions

years wouldn’t have been possible if

we should handle mile-

has rapidly expanded multiple times

it wasn’t for the dedicated staff, vol-

stones. Should we celebrate our 16th

over the years. This winter, Matthew’s

unteers, and community partners. My

Anniversary, our new buses, the new

Hope had to open its doors several

sincere wish is that there was no need

mobile App, and our extraordinary

times to shelter the homeless during

for Matthew’s Hope. While I’m proud

growth since our inception? Every

cold weather conditions. I have no

of our team and the community who

year we’re open, I struggle because I

doubt we will need to do it again as

continues to support our mission, it is

wish our services weren’t needed, but

our homeless guests will need to deal

my prayer that one day our services

at the same time I know we’re doing

with extreme heat and the upcoming

won’t be needed. A place to sleep, a

God’s work and I’m so thankful for

hurricane season. As we have stated

warm meal, and some dignity is not a

our team, volunteers and donors.

before, it is now a crime to be home-

huge ask for our homeless guests.

less in Central Florida. Let that sink Over the course of the past 16 years,

in for a second…just imagine being

Our growth is due to necessity not

Matthew’s Hope Ministries has tak-

out in the extreme heat or summer

ambition. The fastest growing demo-

en on massive growth, which has

storms, and then you get arrested for

graphics of homelessness in Central

increased our opportunities to serve

sleeping outside.

Florida are baby boomers and young

the homeless men, women, and fami-

families. They simply can’t afford to

lies in Central Florida. When I created

Over the last 16 years Matthew’s

Matthew’s Hope, it was with the in-

Hope’s services have expanded in

tention of getting homeless residents

Winter Garden and Cocoa to include

According to a recent audit, 87% of

and families back on their feet and off

two preschools and daycares, two

Matthew’s Hope funding goes to-

the streets. That critical mission still

workshops, and multiple transitional

wards services. So our donors, or

holds true today.

housing units. Thanks to our dedicat-

“investors” as I like to call them, can

ed staff and volunteers of Matthew’s

feel confident that the funds are go-

Matthew’s Hope Ministries has been

Hope, we’re providing much-needed

ing to a great place and will be used

leading the fight against homeless-

access to social and government ser-

for the purpose of moving homeless

ness in Central Florida. What started

vices, medical and mental healthcare,

guests forward toward a life of in-

as a small ministry handing out socks

clothing, hygiene care, and so much

dependence. Please visit www.mat-

in Winter Garden, now has become

more. These are just some of the

thewshopeministries.org or down-

a full blown 501c3 nonprofit with a

opportunities for our guests to help

load our new mobile App to listen to

15-million-dollar annual budget. ”Our

themselves towards a life of self-sus-

our weekly podcast, volunteer, learn

services include a food pantry, hair

tainability for the numerous commu-

more about our programs, and do-

salon, both medical and mental care,

nities we serve.

nate. I am forever grateful for your

job training, and even a pre-school.

live in this economy.

continued support.

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Promotional feature

for more, go to thelocalwg.com

Originally published in the Mar/Apr edition of

What Do the

Homeless Look Like?

From shelter and food to safety and health, the often unseen challenges that define life without a place to call home.

S

helley Bradford, President

Homeless camps are becoming scarcer

Health-Wise

and Executive Director of

as government crackdowns increase. In

It is incredibly difficult to stay on top of

Matthew’s Hope Ministries,

many places, sleeping outside, wheth-

your health when you are homeless. If

has always felt a deep affinity

er in a tent or a car, is illegal. Shelters

you get hurt or sick, where do you go? How

are limited, difficult to qualify for, and

do you manage medications?

for people experiencing homelessness.

“They’re only made different from us through circumstance,” she says. “I had a

often expensive.

“Matthew’s Hope is not a shelter,” Shel-

“Matthew’s Hope conducts intake for those who can get to us,” Shelley says. “In

dear uncle who was homeless, and I was

ley explains. “But we do our best to help

our health clinic, we prioritize the chron-

heartbroken when he left us. We need to

people find resources.”

ically ill first and do what we can to help.

understand homelessness better before

We’ve worked with people recovering

we can solve it. Do you know the fast-

Food-Wise

from surgery and others battling liver and

est-growing segment descending into

Yes, there are food pantries. Central

kidney disease.”

homelessness? Baby Boomers. Husbands

Florida has several strong ones. But how

get laid off or pass away. The income stops,

do you cook the food? Where do you store

and they have no idea what to do.”

it without a safe home or refrigeration?

People sometimes confuse homelessness with poverty. They are not the same.

How do you get to the pantry and carry everything away—on foot?

People living in poverty have homes and can work within a system. Homelessness

Safety-Wise

is different in many ways.

People experiencing homelessness often fall victim to predators. Their vulnerability

Shelter-Wise

is constant. Their possessions and money

People experiencing homelessness live

are always with them, which means they

wherever they can, and it’s getting harder.

are robbed frequently.

Promotional feature

611 Business Park Blvd. #101 Winter Garden 407-905-9500 matthewshopeministries.org

19

A Walk Toward Hope:

Greg’s Journey of Restoration

By Shannon Diaz For Greg, the mile-high peaks of his hometown in Denver once represented a life of stability. A seasoned auto mechanic for 45 years, he understood how to fix things that were broken. But when his world collapsed into a series of unimaginable losses, he found himself facing a breakdown that no wrench could repair.

The Weight of Silence

the crushing pressure of an

Greg’s spiral began when he

immediate eviction, Greg, his

was hit with the blow of two

wife, and his children were

devastating losses. First was

forced to pack up decades of

the passing of his mother,

memories in a frantic rush.

with his father passing just

The trauma fractured his fam-

a month later. The grief he

ily; his wife, struggling with

felt was compounded with a

her own addiction, eventual-

haunting regret since Greg,

ly left with the children, later

in his mother’s last moments,

tragically losing her life to fen-

ignored her attempts to reach

tanyl. Left with nothing and

him. He missed his last chance

nowhere to go, Greg headed

to say goodbye.

for Orlando. Unfortunately, the grief traveled with him.

In the wake of the death of

This grief was fueled by a de-

both his mother and father,

pendency on alcohol that he

Greg’s family home was fore-

didn’t know how to break.

closed on by the bank. Under

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A Walk Toward Hope

The Moving Forward Program

When the money for a mo-

is designed to rebuild a life

tel room ran out, Greg found

from the ground up, and Greg

himself

the

embraced every tool that was

streets of West Orange Coun-

offered. He discovered talents

ty. It was a simple newspaper

he never knew he possessed.

advertisement that changed

While he had spent 45 years

everything. Following the ink

under the hoods of cars, a fel-

on the page, Greg walked until

low guest named Bruce, (who

he reached the doors of Mat-

has since passed) taught Greg

thew’s Hope.

the art of woodworking.

He started where many do, in

Greg didn’t stop at manual

the dirt. He was put to work

crafts. He enrolled at Valencia

in the garden, finding a quiet

College, eventually earning a

rhythm in the soil. At the time,

degree in graphic design. He

his struggle with alcohol was

traded his mechanic’s grease

a silent one; the staff didn’t

for digital canvases and wood

even realize he was drinking.

lathes, proving it is never too

But internally, the physical

late to redefine who you are.

homeless

on

STRAIGHT TALK, NO B.S., WITH MATTHEW'S HOPE PRODUCED BY IMAGINE

Scan the QR code to listen to "Real Faces of Homelessness with Greg - Ep. 114"

toll of withdrawal and the isolation of homelessness had

Through the Moving Forward

brought him to the brink of

Program’s point system—de-

death.

signed to reward hard work and accountability, Greg earned a

In his darkest hour, Greg

car, a vehicle he still drives to-

called out to God for help. He

day as a symbol of his indepen-

crawled to the edge of the

dence.

street, where a stranger called an ambulance. Greg describes

Giving Back

that day as a miracle. That day

Today, Greg is no longer a guest;

he felt God finally lifted the

he is a colleague. Having gradu-

weight of his dependency, al-

ated from the Moving Forward

lowing him to truly begin the

Program, he is now an employ-

“Moving Forward” process.

ee at Matthew’s Hope, using his skills and his story to support

Crafting a New Legacy

others walking the same path he once did. From the Denver mechanic who lost it all to the graphic designer helping build a community in Winter Garden, Greg’s life is a testament to the power of a second chance.

21

Matthew’s Hope Launches New App

By Marc Jablon Matthew’s Hope is pleased to an-

• Matthew’s Hope Bus and Lynx Bus

nounce that it has launched the new

Schedule – The Matthew’s Hope App

Matthew’s Hope App to help facilitate

is a convenient place for homeless

communications amongst its commu-

guests to receive this vital informa-

nity supporters and homeless guests.

tion.

So why a mobile app? First, the av-

• Mobile Ministry Tracker - Homeless

erage person spends more than 6.5

guests will now be able to track and

hours per day on their phone. Ac-

know when help is coming. Our bus

cording to SensorTower Inc., over 5.3

drivers will have the App enabled so

trillion hours were spent using mo-

guests will know within minutes when

bile apps during 2025. Users spend 4

our mobile team will arrive.

times more in mobile apps than mobile browsing. This speaks to the im-

• Podcasts – The latest Straight Talk,

portance of companies not only opti-

No B.S Podcast will be on your App

mizing their websites for mobile, but creating custom, responsive apps too.

• Ask for Hope – Have a question

Mobile apps load 2–3x faster than

about Matthew’s Hope? The new

mobile websites because they can

Matthew’s Hope App will have an AI

store data on the device. The new mo-

feature where visitors can “Ask for

bile App, developed by Imagine Mar-

Hope” and get immediate answers.

keting, will make it easier for visitors to navigate and support Matthew’s

The Matthew’s Hope App is

Hope. A few of our key features of the

available in both the Apple App

Matthew’s Hope App include:

Store and Google Play. Please download the App by scanning

• Push Notifications – Matthew’s Hope will now be able to quickly notify donors and homeless guests about emergency situations such as cold shelters and hurricanes.

22

the QR code.

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23

The Ministry of the Still Face: Why Observation and Communication is Our Greatest Tool

By Shelley Bradford People often comment on my “poker face”. In more candid circles, I’ve heard it described in less flattering terms, a look that is intense, perhaps even unreadable. For a long time, I wondered why God crafted my temperament this way. But in the heart of homeless ministry, I have discovered that this stillness is not a void; it is a sanctuary. In a world that reacts too quickly, I have been called to take everything in before I speak. This intentional pause allows me to see what others miss.

The Sacred Art of Listening

ma. I find myself asking: What has

thousand similar situations, but no two

In our ministry, people don’t just

happened to this person that they

human souls carry the same burden in

come to me for resources, they

no longer have the trust to look an-

the same way.

come because they know we will

other human in the eye?

listen without the urge to interrupt or judge.

We must practice empathy as a disci- The Defensive Stance: Folded

pline. We must remember that:

arms and slouched shoulders are So often, our guests are “closed off”

often shields, not slights. They are

1. Uniformity is a myth: Every guest is

to others, not out of malice, but be-

the physical manifestations of a life

an individual, not a “case.”

cause of a history of poor commu-

spent being told “no.”

2. Trust is earned in inches: It is built

nication and broken promises. My

The Weight of a Word

through small, consistent acts of care.

role is to help them navigate the

We must be hyper-vigilant regard-

3. Empathy is our engine: The more we

architecture of their own thoughts.

ing our tone. In this line of work,

feel for our guests, the more they know

Many times, they’ve shut down be-

sarcasm, aggression, or a dismis-

they are truly seen.

fore we even talk. Then we sit to-

sive sigh can be devastating. For

gether. I am quiet and just listen. By

many of our guests, the world has

As we continue this work, let us lean

simply being a steady, non-reactive

stripped them of their dignity. If we

into the stillness. Let us be the ones

presence, I can help them see the

can be the one person in their day

who watch, who listen, and who pro-

perspectives they’ve been blinded

who treats them with genuine, un-

vide a steady gaze for those who have

to by their own survival instincts.

wavering respect, we earn the right

forgotten what it feels like to be looked

to walk alongside them.

at with love.

Decoding the Unspoken In street-level ministry, body lan-

That respect is the currency of

guage is the primary dialect. When

trust. Without it, we cannot move

a guest approaches us, their posture

them forward.

tells a story long before they open their mouth.

Practicing Radical Empathy The greatest mistake a leader

- The Avoidant Eye: When someone

in this field can make is the

cannot meet my gaze, I don’t see

phrase, “I understand”

disrespect; I see a history of trau-

don’t! We may have seen a

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We

Matthew’s Hope Receives Platinum Rating from GuideStar

By Marc Jablon Matthew’s Hope is pleased to

Platinum: Demonstrates the

announce that we have once

organization’s impact, provid-

again received a Platinum rat-

ing data-driven results and

ing from GuideStar for trans-

metrics.

parency. GuideStar, now part of Candid, uses a system of

“The more information a non-

“Seals of Transparency” to indi-

profit shares, the higher level

cate how much information a

of seal it earns. This can en-

nonprofit provides about itself.

hance its’ visibility and credibility with donors and funders.

These Seals (Bronze, Silver,

For example, one study shows

Gold, and Platinum) are award-

that nonprofits with Gold or

ed based on the level of detail

Platinum Seals receive signifi-

a nonprofit shares, with higher

cantly higher donations on av-

levels requiring more informa-

erage than those with a lower

tion about their goals and im-

rating, or even no seal.

pact.

“We have always regarded Here’s a breakdown of the dif-

our donors as ‘investors’ who

ferent GuideStar Seals:

have a right to transparency.

We want our donors to feel

Bronze: Basic information to

like they are getting an ROI

help people find the organiza-

(Return on Investment). They

tion.

should be able to see their dollars work for them as we use

Silver: Includes program in-

the proceeds to assist home-

formation and details about

less men, women and children

the

of our community by meeting

organization’s

brand.

basic needs, developing skills Gold: Features financial and

and restoring dignity and inde-

information about the people

pendence” stated Scott Billue,

involved with the organization.

Founder and CEO Matthew’s Hope.

25

Restoring Dignity,

One Load at a Time

By Shannon Diaz

F

or most of us, the hum

ing them soaked to the bone with

of a washing machine is

no place to dry out. When those

merely the background

clothes stay damp in the heavy Flor-

noise of a weekly chore.

ida humidity, mildew sets in quick-

We toss a load in, switch it to the

ly. This creates a persistent, heavy

dryer, and fold our clothes without

scent that carries the weight of

a second thought. But for the guests

“homelessness” wherever a guest

at Matthew’s Hope, a clean, dry set

goes, making it nearly impossible to

of clothes isn’t a routine, it’s a resto-

feel a sense of belonging in public

ration of dignity and a critical inter-

spaces.

away the literal and figurative grime

The impact of this constant damp-

warm shirt from the dryer provides

vention for their health.

When you live unsheltered, your

ness isn’t just aesthetic; it is a direct

clothing is your only shield against

medical threat. Wearing mud-caked

the elements, and in Florida, that

or rain-soaked fabric for days on

shield is constantly under attack.

end leads to painful skin rashes and

We often see guests arrive with

fungal infections. Perhaps most crit-

fabric that has been sodden by re-

ically, the lack of clean, dry socks is a

lentless afternoon downpours, leav-

primary cause of debilitating blisters and infections that can lead to severe mobility issues if left untreated.

For a person who has to walk everywhere they go, a fresh pair of socks is not a luxury—it is a vital piece of

of the streets and put on a fresh, a necessary mental reset. It allows a person to walk into a room with their head held high, feeling human again.

At Matthew’s Hope, our laundry services are a key part of how we create order out of the chaos of life on the streets. By taking a bag of mildewed, rain-soaked clothes and returning them clean and folded, we are telling our guests that they are worth the effort. It’s a simple act that yields a

medical equipment.

massive impact, providing the com-

There is also an invisible psycholog-

one to finally begin to moving for-

ical lift that comes with the scent 26

of clean laundry. Being able to strip

fort and health necessary for someward.

Help Park Hope Across Brevard

By Sarah Dewitz

Host Sites and Drivers Needed as Sleeper Bus Program Prepares to Launch.

As Matthew’s Hope Brevard prepares

strengthens the ability to serve those

to launch its Sleeper Buses across the

who would otherwise have nowhere

county in the coming weeks, the focus

safe to go at night.

now turns to the partnerships that will make this effort possible.

Matthew’s Hope is also seeking drivers to support the rollout. Ideal candidates

Additional overnight host sites are still

hold a Class B license and have experi-

needed throughout Brevard County.

ence operating larger vehicles such as

Local churches, community centers,

coaches.

and organizations have an opportunity to play a direct role by providing a safe

The position follows an overnight

place for the buses to park each night.

schedule of three twelve-hour shifts on and four days off, offering a steady

The model is simple and structured.

rhythm while serving in a meaningful

Buses arrive at sunset and depart at

role.

sunrise, with Matthew’s Hope providing licensed security on site. Host lo-

With the buses ready and the time-

cations can be confident that the pro-

line set, the remaining need is clear.

gram is both organized and respectful

Community partners and committed

of the space being used.

drivers will determine how far and how quickly this program can extend

Expanding the network of host sites

its reach.

allows the program to reach more individuals across different areas of the

Contact Scott at scott@mhm25.org for

county, creating consistent, reliable

inquiries.

places for rest. Each new location 27

Meeting the Need in Every Season: Matthew’s Hope in Action

By Sarah Dewitz

M

atthew’s Hope has al-

threatening. For individuals already

ways

place

facing vulnerability, exposure to the

compassion

elements can have serious and some-

where

been

a

meets action, where

times fatal consequences.

neighbors care for neighbors in meaningful and tangible ways. It exists as

Each time the temperatures fell, Mat-

a lifeline for individuals experiencing

thew’s Hope responded. Opening as a

homelessness, meeting people where

cold weather shelter requires signifi-

they are in every season and in ev-

cant coordination and effort. Staff and

ery kind of storm. Over the past sev-

volunteers must be mobilized, facili-

eral months, that mission has been

ties prepared, transportation arranged,

stretched, tested, and strengthened in

and meals provided. Every guest who

profound ways.’

walks through the doors is welcomed

Since November 2025, Matthew’s

with dignity, safety, and care. These

Hope has opened its doors eight sep-

moments call for urgency, compassion,

arate times as a cold weather shelter,

and a willingness to step in when it

providing refuge during nights when

matters most.

temperatures dropped to dangerous levels. While Florida is often associat-

Eight openings in just a few months

ed with warmth and sunshine, those

reflect both the growing need in the

who live without shelter understand

community and the commitment of

how quickly the cold can become life

Matthew’s Hope to serve without hes-

28

itation. When conditions become difficult, this ministry continues to show up.

That commitment carries a financial impact. After these repeated openings, Matthew’s Hope is now facing a $70,000 deficit. This reflects the choice to prioritize people and respond in times of need, even when resources are stretched.

As winter comes to a close, attention is already turning toward what lies ahead. Hurricane season is approaching, bringing a new level of urgency. For those experiencing homelessness, severe weather creates dangerous conditions including flooding, high winds, and instability. Preparation is already underway to ensure that when storms arrive, there will be a plan in place and a safe environment available.

Rising temperatures bring another serious concern. Florida summers create extreme heat combined with high humidity. These conditions can quickly become dangerous, particularly for those without access to shade, water, or cooling. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real risks that increase significantly for individuals living outdoors.

Nationally, it is estimated that about half of the roughly 1,500 annual heat related deaths are people experiencing homelessness. Within Florida, the situation has grown more urgent, with heat related deaths increasing by 88% between 2019 and 2022.

When temperatures drop, Matthew’s Hope opens its doors so our neighbors have a warm, safe place to sleep and be cared for.

These numbers represent lives that

tics, healthcare, and outreach. Do-

could have been protected with ac-

nors provide the financial support

cess to cooling, hydration, and care.

that allows these efforts to continue and grow.

Members of the community have asked

whether

Matthew’s

Hope

A cooling shelter could become pos-

could open as a cooling shelter during

sible with additional support. Hur-

the summer months. The need is

ricane preparation becomes stron-

clear and the desire to help is shared.

ger when more people are involved.

At this time, the financial strain from

The current deficit can be overcome

the winter season makes it difficult to

through collective efforts. Matthew’s

expand services in a sustainable way.

Hope continues to stand as a reflec-

Careful planning is necessary to en-

tion of a community that cares deeply

sure that the ministry can continue

and responds when needs arise. Each

serving consistently in the long term.

act of service contributes to a larger mission rooted in dignity, care, and

Even so, the future remains open.

consistency. Hope is built through

Matthew’s Hope has always been

people who choose to show up, give,

supported by people who step for-

and serve together.

ward with generosity and compassion. Each individual’s time, talents, and treasures continue to shape what is possible.

Volunteers offer their time to serve meals, prepare spaces, and support guests. Skilled individuals contribute their abilities in areas such as logis29

Faces of Hope At Matthew’s Hope Ministries, our mission is driven by people—board members, volunteers, guests, and staff—who help create a community rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope.

Each story reflects the heart of our ministry and the power of love in action.

Board Member Member Spotlight Spotlight Board Board Member Spotlight III Dr. John John Rothwell Dr. Rothwell III

Dr. John Rothwell III

Dr.John Johnisisaadedicated dedicatedservant servantof ofthe theLord Lordand anduses useshis histalents talentsto tohelp help Dr.

Dr. dedicated servant of the Lordhe and uses how his talents theJohn leastis ofathese. these. former combat medic, knows toto the least of AA former combat medic, he knows how itit isis to help thewithout least of these.

A former medic, he knows how it survive without ample medical care.combat Hehas hasexplained explained that takes survive ample medical care.

He that itittakes 33 days ofgood good rest to to get get an individual’s individual’s body regulated again.This This is to John survive without ample medical care.

He has that Dr. is a rest dedicated servant of the Lord and uses his explained talents to help days of an body regulated again. isis why he issuch such big supporter ofget Matthew’s Hope’s up-andcoming it takes days good rest to anmedic, individual’s body regulated the least of these.

A former combat he knows how it is to why he is3 aaof big supporter of Matthew’s Hope’s up-andcoming Sleeper Bus Program.

He has said that his Tuesday service at3 survive without ample He hashis explained that it takes again.

This is Program. why he ismedical such a care. big supporter of Matthew’s Hope’s Sleeper Bus He has said that Tuesday service at Matthew’s Hope for outreach is, “one of the many things that bring me days of coming good rest to get an individual’s body regulated again.

Matthew’s Hope for outreach is, “one of the many things bring meis up-andSleeper Bus Program.

He has saidthat that hisThis Tuesjoy each week.”

Thank you Dr. John! why heweek.” is such a big you supporter of for Matthew’s Hope’s up-andcoming joy each Dr. John! day service at Thank Matthew’s Hope outreach is, “one of the many Sleeper Bus Program. He has said that his Tuesday service at things that bring me joy each week.” Thank you Dr. John!

Matthew’s Hope for outreach is, “one of the many things that bring me joy each week.” Thank you Dr. John!

Employee Spotlight

Kimberly Thomson KimKim has been a devoted employee at Matthew’s Hope for many years. has been a devoted employee at Matthew’s Hope for Shemany was first drawn to Matthew’s as ato volunteer looking to serve years.

She was firstHope drawn Matthew’s Hope as a hervolunteer communitylooking in a direct, hands-on way.

She is always willing to help, to serve her community in a direct, handswhether it’s outreach, assisting with ID verification, or accounting; on way. She is always willing to help, whether it’s outreach, Kim is a jack of all trades wanting to help others help themselves

assisting with ID verification, or accounting; Kim is a jack of

everyday. Kim has expressed her feelings towards Matthew’s Hope, all trades wanting to help others help themselves everyday. saying “It is amazing and humbling to have a front row seat on the Kim has expressed her feelings towards Matthew’s Hope, journeys our guests take and being a part of helping them navigate saying “It is amazing towards a better tomorrow.”and Youhumbling rock, Kim! to have a front row seat

on the journeys our guests take and being a part of helping them navigate towards a better tomorrow.” You rock, Kim! 30

Volunteer Spotlight

Volunteer Spotlight

Larry Musso

Larry Musso

When Larry first emailed our Volunteer Coordinator, he mentioned

When Larry first emailed our Volunteer Coordinator, he that he didn’t think he would have many skills to contribute to our mentioned that he didn’t think he would have many skills to ministry. stated “[I] our haveVolunteer been a practicing attorney in WhenHe Larry first that, emailed Coordinator, he mentioned contribute to our ministry.

He stated that, “[I] have been a California for the last nearly 40 years” and “a born again Christian”. that he didn’t think he would have many skills to contribute to our practicing intoCalifornia forhad the lastinnearly 40 years” That was allattorney we needed hear. We’ve Larry our fulfillment area ministry. He stated that, “[I] have been a practicing attorney in and “a born again Christian”.

That was all we needed to hear. since May of 2024 and he has been one of the strongest volunteers California for the last nearly 40 years” and “a born again Christian”. the Brevard has ever had.

Hissince organization and We’ve had County Larry incampus our fulfillment area May ofskills 2024 That was all we needed to hear. We’ve had Larry in our fulfillment area attention to been detail were justthe what we needed.

Larry continues to show and he has one of strongest volunteers the Brevard since May of 2024 and he has been one of the strongest volunteers his love of Christ through everything that he does.

Matthew’s County campus has ever had. His organization skills andHope atthe Brevard County campus has ever had. His organization skills and appreciates everything you do, Larry! tention to detail were just what we needed. Larry continues attention to detail were just what we needed. Larry continues to show to show his of love of Christ through everything does. Hope his love Christ through everything that he that does.he Matthew’s Matthew’s Hope appreciates everything you do, Larry! appreciates everything you do, Larry!

Guest Spotlight

Michael Hollman Michael, a former addict, realized at 54 Michael, a former addict, realized at 54 that hethat was he sickwas and sick tiredand of tired ofand being sickHeand He told the advocates, “I’mpray gobeing sick tired. toldtired. the advocates, “I’m going to just about wait for about the Lord handle forthe me”.Lord His unwavering ing ittoand just pray it to and waititfor to handle faith it for hasme”. paidHis off.unwavering He attendedfaith Matthew’s Hope Tuesday Matand has paid off. every He attended Thursday always got aTuesday meal from ourThursday Mobile Teams Mondays thew’sand Hope every and andon always got anda Wednesdays.

He started working the campus to give back meal from our Mobile Teamsaround on Mondays and Wednesand keep busy and even attended the Bible Study that was hosted in days. He started working around the campus to give back the chapel. He had his nose to the grindstone and is now in our and keep busy and even attended the Bible Study that was Moving Forward Program. He recently celebrated his birthday and was hosted in the chapel. He had his nose to the grindstone and celebrated by all. Keep moving forward, Mike!

is now in our Moving Forward Program. He recently celebrated his birthday and was celebrated by all. Keep moving forward, Mike!

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