Moving Forward Magazine Summer 2025 by We Are Winter Garden

Moving Forward Summer 2025

Pastor Scott reflects on the journey of the past few months, highlighting powerful moments of transformation, growth, and community impact that inspired this magazine’s stories.

Time to Get on the Bus

Matthew’s Hope is launching sleeper buses to provide short-term shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness.

I’m Sorry

How Joe Walsh, of CSH Fitness, learned how to help a homeless neighbor

When the Heat Rises and the Storms Roll In

Matthew’s Hope prepares for hurricane season shelters to aid the homeless during hurricanes to protect them from deadly storm impacts.

Food For Thought

Matthew’s Hope delivers life-saving, protein-packed meals and essentials to the homeless—offering hope, dignity, and a lifeline to those who need it most.

Moving Forward with Sherry

Through Matthew’s Hope, Special Hearts Farm, and a new home from Habitat for Humanity, Sherry overcame homelessness, found purpose, and built a brighter future for herself and her family.

When Love Conquers All

A breathtaking love story unfolds as a courageous bride facing terminal illness is gifted a dream wedding—reminding us that even in life’s hardest moments, love truly conquers all.

Do the Homeless Have Birthdays?

Matthew’s Hope honors the birthdays of those experiencing homelessness, celebrating life, milestones, and hope with cake, candles, and heartfelt connection.

Hope for the Best

Discover how Matthew’s Hope is transforming lives through accountability, compassion, and lived experience—empowering people to reclaim independence, dignity, and purpose.

Tom and Missy: The Story of Surival and Compassion

After years of hardship, Tom and Missy—bound by love and resilience, found safety, dignity, and a new beginning through relentless advocacy and the unwavering support of Matthew’s Hope.

We Won... So What?!

Winning awards isn’t just about recognition—it’s a powerful way for Matthew’s Hope to share its mission, boost morale, build trust, and bring vital support to those who need it most.

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When Love Conquers All

A breathtaking love story unfolds as a courageous bride facing terminal illness is gifted a dream wedding— reminding us that even in life’s hardest moments, love truly conquers all.

Time to Get on the Bus

Matthew’s Hope is launching sleeper buses to provide short-term shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness.

Matthew’s Hope Founder Scott Billue

Writers

Marc Jablon, Scott Billue, Sarah Dewitz, Joe Walsh, Courtney Woolbright, Mark McWaters, Shelley Dawson

Photography

Jon Burket, Josh Clark, Fred Lopez

Graphics, Layout and Design

Amanda Kumpulainen

Special thanks to the Local for providing articles “Food for Thought” and “Hope for the Best”

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24 Hope for the Best

Discover how Matthew’s Hope is transforming lives through accountability, compassion, and lived experience—empowering people to reclaim independence, dignity, and purpose.

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importantly, the best ways to head it off. What they learned very quickly is that money alone is not the answer. It provides food, shelter, and medical care, but that is only the start.

Mon-Friday: 8-4 Saturday: 8-2

“The best way to change the trajectory of a homeless person’s life is through accountability,” Scott says.

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Mon-Friday: 8-4 Saturday: 8-2

Winter Garden Chest Store

he best outcome for the homeless men, women, and children in our communities is that they attain the spiritual, mental, and physical wellbeing they will need to be able to return to the independent, productive lives they once knew. Scott Billue, founder of Matthew’s Hope, is someone who has personally experienced homelessness and knows firsthand what it takes to make that difficult journey.

1027 S Dillard St, Winter Garden, FL 34787

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“Teach them to work and be responsible for their own lives. The pride and dignity that result will be powerful tools to help put them on the right path. Our workshops and programs work. And when I see it happen, you can’t imagine the joy it brings.

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“Most people think a homeless person living on the streets got that way because of drugs, or alcohol. That they are somehow inferior human beings and deserve what they get. That is so untrue and hurtful. It is, in fact, loss that drives the majority of folks to the streets. Loss of a job, loss of a spouse or child, physical trauma like a car wreck, physical loss from illness

FOUNDER’S FORUM

A WORD FROM THE MATTHEW’S HOPE FOUNDER, PASTOR SCOTT

Where to begin??? We are living in some very interesting times in the nonprofit world. Some days quite honestly, I am ready to just throw my arms up and say to hell with it all! Truth is, knowing what I know, knowing what I have witnessed since launching Matthew’s Hope over 15 years ago, I could never just walk away without God somehow erasing all I have seen. Not to mention, if not us, then who will continue to fight the fight? Policy changes and budget cuts have turned the nonprofit world upside down. The good news for Matthew’s Hope is that only 6.2% of our entire budget is covered by taxpayer-funded grants. The bad news is that nearly all our partners are funded almost entirely by those same taxpayer-funded grants which now places more pressure on Matthew’s Hope to pick up the slack, and we really have no idea how much we can absorb. So we continue to walk in faith. Truth is, we have been doing that for more than 15 years.

I think the most concerning issues in homelessness that we are currently facing, other than the new laws (such as making it illegal to sleep outside), is just how many more Baby Boomers, those with physical and/or mental disabilities, and the number of children we have been seeing walk through our doors in need of help. The recent policy changes and budget cuts will only fuel those already growing segments of homelessness that we serve. I try to avoid politics as much as possible, however I truly believe that many in politics, and among the general public, are ignorant of the role nonprofits play in our country and ignorant of what the actual face of homelessness looks like.

I recently turned 63, and it occurred to me a couple of years ago that according to science, I have roughly 15 years to live, give or take. It was then that I decided I needed to speak up even more and be a voice for the voiceless, advocating and educating along the way. Right is right, and wrong is wrong, no matter what political party is in office. The truth is, no one really thinks much about injustice until injustice has been done to them, and neither party, over several decades, has done much to address this growing crisis. So, with that, it comes down to you and me. What are we going to do to bring about the changes we want to see in our communities?

A former Seminary Professor of mine once told me, “Scotty, you are going to meet a lot of believers along the way with scabs on their knees, however you want to keep an eye out for the ones with dirt under their fingernails. They are the ones getting things done”. Someone recently said to me, I wish God would do something… God did, He sent you and me! If you have been on this wild ride with us, we give you our heartfelt thanks. If you are new to Matthew’s Hope, we encourage you to buckle up and get ready to get some dirt under your fingernails, as it truly is an adventure you will never regret being a part of, and you have been invited!

James 1:22/Matthew 25:35-40 Blessings!

Scott

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TIME TO GET ON THE BUS

BY SARAH DEWITZ

Across Central Florida, cities are coming together around a shared truth: people living on the streets deserve more than judgment and empty promises. They deserve rest, safety, and a place to just breathe.

Now, with the leadership of Matthew’s Hope Ministries, that truth is being put into action through a mobile sleeper bus program that’s finding strong support in both Orange and Brevard Counties. While the buses are not yet rolling, the path forward is clearer than ever—and real steps are already being taken by city governments, nonprofits, and faith communities working together.

Each bus, when operational, will offer overnight shelter to up to 20 individuals. But this isn’t a walk-up shelter—it’s based on a reservation system. Guests can register in advance, stay for up to three nights, and are then transported back to the town or area where they originally signed up. The goal is to provide temporary relief, but with intentional structure—enough stability to connect someone to the next right step.

Inside, each bus is equipped with clean linens, private restrooms, security, storage for personal belongings, and space for pets. The buses will arrive each evening at church parking lots or community centers, then leave by morning. Transportation is provided to prevent loitering and ease concerns from surrounding neighborhoods.

But what really makes this model matter is what those three nights off the street can do for someone in crisis.

“Three nights might not sound like much,” said Pastor Scott Billue, Founder and CEO of Matthew’s Hope Ministries. “But for someone who hasn’t had uninterrupted sleep in weeks— who’s been bracing against the extreme heat, or listening for every sound outside a tent—that rest can be everything. You can’t heal, you can’t plan, and you can’t hope when you’re just trying to survive the night.”

Billue and his team have spent years serving individuals facing homelessness, and they’ve seen how quickly things can fall apart—and how much faster someone can recover with just a little bit of help at the right time.

The need is especially urgent when you consider who’s affected. Across Central Florida, homelessness is increasingly impacting older adults, and individuals living with untreated mental illness. Nearly one in three people registering with Matthew’s Hope for the first time are age 55 or older. Some are veterans, some are widows, and others are managing conditions like PTSD, schizophrenia, or chronic pain without access to consistent care.

And when you’re carrying all of that on your back, even one night on the street can be dangerous. People with disabilities or cognitive challenges are more likely to be targeted, injured, or hospitalized. People with mental illness are more likely to go without medication, spiral into crisis, or fall through the cracks entirely.

“This isn’t just a convenience,” Billue said. “For a lot of folks, a few nights in a safe, quiet place is the difference between stabilization and collapse That’s why cities like Apopka have chosen to move from conversation to action.

On June 17, the Apopka City Council voted unanimously to approve the use of the Apopka Community Center as a host site for the sleeper bus. The decision followed weeks of thoughtful discussion and community input. In addition to the approval, the City agreed to assist with liability insurance—a major gesture of support that helps takethe pressure off churches and nonprofits who might otherwise be hesitant to offer space. During the vote, city leaders made it clear: this is about meeting a need, and meeting it together.

“We all see the need,” said Mayor Bryan Nelson. “And tonight, we made the choice to respond. Not with words— but with action.” Commissioner Nick Nesta, a longtime advocate for the unhoused, praised the vote and reiterated his vision for a more permanent resource center in Apopka— something that could provide ongoing support like job readiness, hygiene access, mental health counseling, and more.

“There are people in this city who don’t need a lecture,” Nesta said.

“They need a shower, a safe place to

rest, someone who sees them. That’s what we’re trying to offer.

While planning continues in Orange County, Brevard County is also preparing to launch. Matthew’s Hope has teamed up with the Brevard Homeless Coalition to bring the sleeper bus model to life across the Space Coast, particularly in areas that have gone underserved for far too long. Cities like Titusville, Mims, Eau Gallie, and parts of Melbourne will finally see mobile services reach them—communities that have historically lacked access to consistent street outreach, shelter, or case management.

“This is why we designed the program to be mobile,” said Billue. “Brevard County is huge. A single shelter can’t serve everyone. But a bus can. We can take help directly to people who need it, where they are.” One of the most powerful things about the model is that it doesn’t require city funding to operate. Matthew’s Hope handles staffing, transportation, supplies, and day-to-day logistics. What’s needed most is community cooperation and a place to park.

“This isn’t about enabling people to

stay stuck,” Billue said. “It’s about helping them catch their breath so they can move forward. That’s what dignity looks like. That’s what care looks like.”

From Apopka to the Atlantic coast, Central Florida is doing something different. It’s stepping up—not with all the answers, but with a willingness to start. And for someone sleeping behind a building tonight, that small step may be the very thing that changes everything.

You can’t heal, you can’t plan, and you can’t hope when you’re just trying to survive the night.”

-Pastor Scott

I’M SORRY

HOW I LEARNED TO HELP A LOCAL HOMELESS NEIGHBOR

BY JOE WALSH

Stoneybrook West in Winter Garden is a bustling shopping district surrounded by affluent neighborhoods. However, there are homeless people that most of us try not to see.

One of these homeless individuals is a man named “Dee”. He’s young— maybe late 20s, early 30s. He’s Black, often shirtless, always dancing. His movements make people wonder if he’s drunk or high. But if you look closer, he’s surprisingly put together for someone who sleeps outside. He changes his clothes every so often. He appears clean, maybe rinsing off in a sink somewhere.

I own CSH Fitness, a gym in this shopping center, and for the past few months, he’s been sleeping behind my building. At first, I just hoped he would move along. I open at 5:00 AM, and I have young staff—some of them women—arriving early. The unknown was the unsettling part. Is he safe? Is everyone else going to feel safe walking in when he’s right around the corner in the dark?

When it became clear he wasn’t leaving, I tried to figure out what to do. I walked into the neighboring businesses—Pizza Hut didn’t care much. But a Subway employee had a very different reaction. She asked me to walk out back with her to “deal with it.” I hesitated. She was older and didn’t want to go alone. She was confident and persistent, so I went.

But what happened next didn’t sit right with me. In fact, it disgusted me.

We didn’t talk to him, we yelled. Or rather, she yelled. She threatened him with the police, raised her voice, cursed, and dismissed him like he wasn’t even human.

And I stood there in silence…

Dee looked at me and asked my name. She cut him off and told him to shut up and move faster.

And I still stood in silence.

That night, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d done something wrong—not by acting, but by not acting.

So, the next day, I went back. Alone this time. I asked Dee if I could talk to him—and then if I could sit next to him. I told him he didn’t deserve to be treated that way. I apologized for stay ing silent. And I asked him about his story. Dee opened up.

Dee’s been around the area for a year. He rotates between the four corners of the shopping district depending on where the sun is. He has access to some money, though I’m not sure how. He has a phone, though it’s broken. He mentioned waiting on a ride.

Dee told me people treat him ter ribly—and he chooses silence and prayer instead. He said people judge him for being homeless. Sometimes just for being Black. He thanked me for “speaking to him like a man”.

Dee told me all I had to do was ask.

I was honest with him—I said having

someone sleeping behind my business felt unsafe. He nodded. He understood and told me he appreciated honesty and the kindness. He said he’d remember it. Before I left, I offered him a bottle of water. He didn’t want to accept it at first. But I insisted—it was the least I could do. And then I did what I should have done from the start: I looked up resources. I printed out the times and address for Matthew’s Hope, a local outreach program open Tuesdays and Thursdays. I don’t know if he’ll go. But I wanted

WHEN THE HEAT RISES AND THE STORMS ROLL IN

BY SARAH DEWITZ

As we begin to prepare for hurricane season, most Florida residents will be buying bottled water or filling up their tubs, boarding windows, and checking batteries in flashlights. But for the thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness in the areas Matthew’s Hope serves, where do they go? They may batten down their tent (if they have one) or perhaps try and find an awning to stay under that won’t put them at risk of being trespassed. But what about the debris being swept up in 75+ MPH winds? The risk of sickness after being drenched for multiple days with no shelter? The fear that a tree limb may fall on top of anyone who can’t move quickly enough to get out of the way?

Matthew’s Hope is ready. When severe weather becomes imminent, we activate our emergency shelter response, converting our outreach center into a safe and welcoming environment for those with no roof of their own. While many may recall our efforts opening as a cold-weather shelter last winter, hurricane season brings a different set of challenges—ones we prepare for with urgency and compassion.

Hurricanes pose unique and devastating risks to people living unsheltered. Tents collapse under torrential rain. Belongings, including vital documents, are washed away in floodwaters. Temporary encampments, often located near retention ponds, wooded areas, or under overpasses, become deadly traps.

We’ve seen it firsthand. In 2024, one of our guests was nearly swept into a

drainage canal during Hurricane Milton while trying to retrieve his backpack—his only possession—after a sudden downpour overwhelmed the area he was sheltering in. Another man, a veteran, came back to his camp after sheltering with us, just to see it had been destroyed. He had no access to a consistent place to stay or even shade for days aside from the respite our outreach services provided.

The storm itself is only part of the threat. The aftermath—weeks without stable shelter, exposure to contaminated floodwaters, disrupted public services, closed businesses, and inaccessible aid centers—can be just as deadly. For people with chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or mental health struggles, these disruptions can be catastrophic.

Outside of the threat of a hurricane, Florida heat is always a major concern for those without homes. A housed individual may take a dip in the pool or sit in the A.C. to cool down. Our guests on the streets don’t have that luxury. And the need is growing. At Matthew’s Hope, 31% of newly registered first-time homeless guests are Baby Boomers. Many are disabled or have declining health. As we age, our bodies don’t recognize thirst as quickly, and for seniors living on the street, this can turn Florida’s heat into a silent killer—especially when hurricanes knock out power and delay outreach services. That’s why our response is so much more than opening a door.

Ahead of the summer months, our team mobilizes quickly—stockpiling specific emergency supplies like tarps,

water-resistant clothing, batteries, flashlights, and plenty of clean water. We prioritize the most vulnerable for safe indoor placement and coordinate transportation for those unable to reach us on foot. We also work closely with our mobile outreach teams to ensure the safety of guests by providing water, clothing, hygiene, and food during the days we don’t provide inhouse services.

Our passion doesn’t stop when the winds die down. In the days and weeks after a storm, we continue those services to individuals and families who may have lost everything, just as we do every outreach day.

Hurricanes and heat do not discriminate, but they devastate equally. For someone with insurance and a home, a hurricane may mean a few weeks of repairs. For someone living on the streets, it can mean the loss of every personal item, physical trauma, or even death. Matthew’s Hope stands in that gap.

As you prepare your home this hurricane season, we urge you to also prepare your heart. Whether through volunteering, donating to our Summer Fund, or spreading awareness, you can help us ensure that no one is left to weather the storm alone. If you stock up for a storm, and you are fortunate enough that it passes, please bring your extra bottles of water and supplies to Matthew’s Hope. With your support, Matthew’s Hope will continue to serve those who have no where else to turn during the summer.

very day, before the sun rises over Winter Garden, the team at Matthew’s Hope is already in motion— loading trucks, packing supplies, and preparing to meet people where they are. For the thousands experiencing

homelessness in Central Florida, survival hinges on more than just shelter. It starts with food: simple, protein-packed meals that don’t require a kitchen, refrigeration, or even a can opener..

The first thing people need to understand about the homeless situation is how different “homelessness” is from poverty. Both are serious conditions, of course, but being homeless impacts people’s lives in very specific ways—especially when it comes to food.

Homeless individuals have no refrigeration, no storage facilities, and no way to cook. They may not even have a can opener. In many instances, they have limited access to clean water. They also have no access to computers, cellphones, or transportation.Though Matthew’s Hope sends out fleets of trucks and minibuses to city bus stops across the area, it’s not enough. Often, our homeless friends must carry

everything they own inside a backpack—including their food and water.

What does this mean? It means that ideal food donations come in smallsized cans, preferably with pop-tabs. Large cans are problematic because food that isn’t eaten in one sitting will often spoil without proper storage. Spoiled food becomes a health hazard.

Nutrition is also a challenge, as it’s difficult to find food that is both nutritious and conveniently packaged. Protein is especially critical. That means beanie weenies, pork and beans, Spam, and tuna fish.

Scott Billue, Founder of Matthew’s Hope, adds, “Vienna sausages are very popular with our people because many of them have trouble chewing, and those sausages are soft.”

Shelley Bradford, president of Matthew’s Hope, continues, “Protein. Protein.

Protein. That’s the key. Protein drinks like Ensure or Boost, or Frog Protein Pouches—bodybuilders love those. Then, of course, we need canned vegetables and fruit to go with the protein. But in smaller cans, when possible. I know we sound picky, and we don’t mean to be. It’s just the reality of doing the best we can for our people.

“Even something as simple as water,” Scott contines. “They say everyone should drink six to eight glasses of water a day—but for those living outside, that’s not even close to what they truly need to survive.”

Something so simple shouldn’t be so hard, but Scott puts it in stark terms: “Although our donor base has grown for 15 years in a row, our average donation is down approximately 60% since the pandemic. The need has simply outgrown our existing donor base.”

He adds, “The people in our Winter Garden area have been incredibly generous and have stepped up in a big way. We are so grateful for their compassion and generosity. They inspire us to keep Matthew’s Hope growing and serving those who need us most.

“ We encourage all who wish to donate to bring their donations to us on a Matthew’s Hope campus in Winter Garden.”

Items Always Needed

Single Serve Pantry Items

Vienna Sausages

SPAM (Single Packets)

Vegetables(Single Serve Cans)

Fruit (Single Serve Cans)

Fruit Cups

Chicken Salad & Crackers

Tuna Salad & Crackers

Mac & Cheese (Single Serve)

Chicken, Rice & Vegetables

Pork & Beans

Beanie Weenies

Snack Crackers

Breakfast Bars (Fruit)

Protein Bars

Ensure Protein Drink

Shelf Stable Milk

Granola Bars (Chewy)

Gatorade Powder Singles

Coffee (Single/Instant)

Clothing Items

Jeans

T-Shirts

Running/Mesh Style Shoes

Mens Boxer Briefs

Ladies Brief Style Panties

Travel Size Hygiene Items

Deodorant

Shampoo

Body Wash

Nail Clippers

Nail Files

Feminine Hygiene Items

Sun Screen

Donations are accepted Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm, Saturday until noon, or by appointment.

Amazon Food Wish List https://www.amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ls/3SFSHNFT08WBH

To support Financially https://matthewshopeministries. harnessapp.com/wv2/donate

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IN HOPE ACTION

MOVING FORWARD WITH SHERRY

BY SARAH DEWITZ

When Sherry walked through the doors of Matthew’s Hope Ministries, she was worn down, worn out, and carrying more than just the weight of homelessness—she carried the invisible burdens of a life that had been unraveling thread by thread.

“It all hit me when Alivia graduated high school,” she said. “I procrastinated so hard I didn’t know where to begin.” For most parents, graduation is a celebratory milestone. But for Sherry, it marked a terrifying shift in responsibility. Her eldest daughter, Alivia, was born with Down syndrome. And her youngest, Kelly, though still a child herself, had to step up in ways no child should. “Kelly had to step in and play the father role,” Sherry admitted. “That wasn’t supposed to be her job.”

Caring for a daughter with a disability while homeless is a daily uphill battle few understand. The lack of routine, the constant instability, and the difficulty in accessing services make every task harder—especially when you’re trying to maintain dignity and emotional strength for your children. There were days when simply surviving felt like a full-time job.

But there was a moment—quiet and raw—when everything changed. “I surrendered to God in that hotel room,” she said. “But it was Matthew’s Hope that really dug deep, because I needed someone to be stern and strong.” That’s what the Moving Forward program offered her—not just compassion, but structure. Not just help, but truth.

This is where I got to know her—not just as a guest in our program, but as a woman, a mother, and a fighter. I don’t think Sherry even realizes how much impact she had on me personally. I love that woman. And I absolutely adore Alivia. That girl could brighten the darkest room. Her joy was contagious.

it became a crucial piece of Sherry’s healing. There, in the dirt and sun, she reconnected with a sense of purpose beyond survival. Special Hearts Farm is a place where adults with disabilities are embraced and empowered. It’s also a space where people like Sherry could plug into the community in a real, tangible way. She wasn’t just working—she was building relationships, showing up, and proving to herself that she still had something to offer.

The physical work kept her grounded. The fresh air kept her moving. And the community around the farm reminded her she was still seen. Special Hearts gave her not only structure, but something to look forward to—a place to belong outside the label of “homeless.”

Her spirit, pure. There was something holy about the way Sherry loved her. Something sacrificial, determined, and steady—even when everything around her was falling apart.

Sherry found her rhythm in the woodshop. That’s where I saw her come alive in a different way. She learned to strip the wood, to get into the corners and crevices, to bring new life to something that looked beyond repair. It was beautiful to watch—this quiet, sacred transformation. We’d crack jokes while sanding down old furniture and swap stories between coats of stain. But beneath it all, Sherry was learning a truth she hadn’t let herself fully grasp: she wasn’t broken. She was being restored.

“When you’re 50, you kinda think you know it all,” she laughed one day. “But you come to a point where you just need somebody to speak life and truth to you.” And that’s what the program gave her—hard truths and steady encouragement, side by side.

But one of the most powerful shifts in Sherry’s life came when she began working at Special Hearts Farm. The farm isn’t run by Matthew’s Hope, but

Kelly, her youngest daughter, is now married with her GED and a cosmetology license in hand. Sherry beams with pride when she talks about her girls. At the West Orange County Habitat for Humanity shovel to key event, Sherry saw the passage of hard labor to personal breakthrough. And Sherry stood tall. That shovel was no longer just a symbol of her past struggles; it was a testament to how far she had come. The key? A sign that restoration was not just possible—it was happening.

Sherry’s story is one I carry with me often. It’s a reminder that motherhood doesn’t stop in the face of crisis. That a woman’s spirit can bend without breaking. That faith, when combined with action, can uproot even the deepest despair.

Sherry may think Matthew’s Hope changed her life. And yes—we helped build the structure. But Sherry is the one who walked every step. She’s the one who loved fiercely, worked humbly, and never stopped believing. What she may not know is that she changed our lives too.

Through the Moving Forward program and her work at Special Hearts Farm, she transformed not just her life, but her future.

WHEN LOVE CONQUERS ALL

A GIFTED WEDDING FOR A COURAGEOUS BRIDE

BY COURTNEY WOOLBRIGHT

Under the shade of towering oaks in Cocoa, Florida at Matthew’s Hope Brevard County Wedding & Event Venue, Trinity Oaks, Kristina Hamilton—42, courageous, and radiant—walked down the aisle on April 6, 2025. Her groom, Christopher “Chris” Swanson, 43, waited for her at the end of the long Sanctuary isle of stained glass, the air thick with emotion and tears from all. With seven children between them, they stood poised to begin this chapter as husband and wife. But this wedding was more than a celebration—it was a triumph of hope in the face of uncertainty. Why so much emotion at a wedding? Venue Manager and Owner of I Do For You - Wedding & Event Planning, Courtney Woolbright, gives us the behind the scenes of the entire planning experience and how this couple received a near $55,000 wedding for FREE.

Kristina lives with early-onset Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma, an aggressive autoimmune disease that hardens connective tissue and organs over time. It had eroded her bone structure, taken her teeth, and threatened her lungs. She feared she might never say “I do.” Yet, in 2024, she reached out to Wish Upon a Wedding, a nonprofit granting wedding wishes for people confronting terminal illness or life-threatening health issues. Last autumn, Kristina’s application was accepted.

Megan from the Wish Upon a Wedding Foundation reached out to Certified Wedding Planner, Courtney Woolbright regarding the couple. Courtney granted the couple’s wish

as a Wedding Planner with I Do For You and began planning immediately. First, a tour at the venue Courtney manages, Trinity Oaks Event venue of Matthew’s Hope, which is also a Non-Profit for the homeless. After excitement and tears fell from the bride to be’s eyes, Courtney knew this was going to be the most humbling and special wedding to be part of. By the end of the planning by the I Do For You team, Over $50,000 in vendors were donated—florists, caterers, entertainers, even a limousine provider & honeymoon suite hotel room —all donated services. On the Big day, Kristina was glammed up by Glam Culture and carried delicate orchids and roses from Crown of Floral (perfectly matching Chris’ suit from Aurora Bridal). The reception was also poignant thanks to Pop & Pour and De-Booze mobile bartending. What most do not know? All the vendors wore a hint of blue to be the Bride’s “Something Blue” , a memory all will share from photos.

Their ceremony was intimate, attended by about 50 friends and family members. Guests were welcomed with cocktail delights from East Coast

“Our hope is to not only manage

Shuckers and set the mood to dance to tunes spun live by DJ Chemics. A photo booth by 1,000 Words captured the joy of the evening, leaving behind snapshots of laughter, tears, and togetherness. Renaissance Catering served dinner, followed by a delicious cake from Cynful Snacks & Cakes. Chairs for Affairs and Mimosas & Moonshine Rentals outfitted the reception hall in serene shades of blue and white, while Hot Rayz Limousines whisked away the newlyweds in style to take them to Holiday Inn Cape Canaveral that was decorated as

Florida Today a local newspaper published the wedding and was on site at the wedding interviewing and taking media footage. A beautiful article came out the very next day bringing us to tears all over again. A shock came to both the couple and vendors, when the wedding was published in People Magazine just 48 hours after the Wed-

Their wedding reminds us that love isn’t just about grand gestures— it’s the courage to forge ahead in the face of fear, the unity of community rallying around a shared cause, and the simple, beautiful act of saying “yes” when tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. Matthew’s Hope having just a small piece in this journey will forever touch our hearts. Kristina and Chris’ wedding photo is hung in our Sanctuary lobby and will always be a

The mission for Matthew’s Hope, since its inception 15 years ago, has always been to learn what the face of homelessness looks like, what causes it, and, most

importantly, the best ways to head it off. What they learned very quickly is that money alone is not the answer. It provides food, shelter, and medical care, but that is only the start.

“The best way to change the trajectory of a homeless person’s life is through accountability,” Scott says. “Teach them to work and be responsible for their own lives. The pride and dignity that result will be powerful tools to help put them on the right path. Our workshops and programs work. And when I see it happen, you can’t imagine the joy it brings.

“Donny came to us during the pandemic. He had severe mental health issues and trauma from a head injury. Today, he’s working with our mobile teams in the same areas he used to live. A few more stories like that, different but with similar outcomes— Shannon who is now a director for us, Greg who runs our Hope Chest Wood Shop, and John in our other wood shop—are only the tip of our considerable iceberg.”

The best is yet to come!

Only 6% of Matthew’s Hope’s yearly budget is tax

payer-funded. Donations make up the rest. And still, they have plans to expand their counseling and mental health programs. They are adding to their medical capabilities. And they’re currently bringing several Greyhound-like buses online, outfitted like train sleeper cars, to extend their reach even further. The buses sleep 19 to 20 people in private “pods” with some accommodations for pets!

“The future looks bright in the dark corners we work within. We go into the places no one wants to go. We get to know the people stuck there, develop relationships, and walk them out to something better.”

TOM AND MISSY: A STORY OF SURVIVAL AND COMPASSION

BY SARAH DEWITZ

Thomas and Melissa—known to many as Tom and Missy— have lived through years of hardship that most of us can hardly imagine. But their love, faith, and tenacity have carried them through it all. Their story isn’t one of convenience. It’s one of endurance, of devotion, and finally—of victory.

Melissa has cerebral palsy, a condition that severely limits her mobility. She depends on Thomas daily. For bathing, dressing, and feeding. And while Tom has done everything in his power to care for her, including lifting her over curbs and keeping her health up through Florida heat, what they haven’t had for years is the one thing that could make all the difference: a safe, stable place to live.

Shelters weren’t an option. Missy’s condition made many programs illequipped or unwilling to accept her. Instead, they lived in the woods. Not for a few nights—but for years. Hiding and surviving, doing their best to remain unseen in the hope of avoiding trespassing charges.

Imagine that. Imagine being a disabled woman, unable to run, unable to shield yourself from danger, and being told that the only place you can rest your head is illegal. That your very existence is a violation. That you, and your wheelchair, and the man who’s fought to keep you alive, don’t belong anywhere. That was their life.

And it wasn’t just the isolation and fear that weighed on them—it was the filth and danger of the wilderness. They weren’t alone out there. Raccoons and rats often crept into their space, searching for food, chewing through supplies, and spreading waste.

Insects carrying diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever buzzed and bit with no reprieve. Every night, they fought not only the elements but a hostile environment filled with vermin and infestations that threatened Missy’s already fragile health. But even through those years in the woods, Tom and Missy held on. They came

Melissa, who lives with cerebral palsy, relies on Thomas for daily care—from bathing to navigating the Florida heat. Their love and resilience have carried them through, but for years, one essential piece was missing: a safe, stable place to call home.

After months of relentless advocacy, James, of the Brevard Homeless Coalition, cut through the red tape and shattered the barriers. At last, Tom and Missy stand before the doors of their new home—safe, stable, and theirs.

regularly to Matthew’s Hope Ministries, a homeless outreach program that offered them what little consistency they had: hot meals, hygiene supplies, clothing, medical care,and most importantly—community. At Matthew’s Hope, they weren’t just seen. They were embraced.

Matthew’s Hope made sure transportation was never a barrier. Each week, Tom and Missy were brought to the ministry on one of Matthew’s Hope’s buses—specially equipped with a handicapped lift—so Missy could board safely and with dignity. That ride wasn’t just about access. It was about inclusion.

Week after week, volunteers welcomed them with warmth and com-

passion. Tom received help managing Missy’s unique needs, and Missy always left with her spirits lifted and her dignity restored. They became a part of the Matthew’s Hope family, showing up not only to receive care but also to share encouragement, laughter, and light with those around them. Despite what they were going through, they lifted others.

But something had to change. They couldn’t live in survival mode forever. That’s where James, of the Brevard Homeless Coalition, came in. James heard their story and refused to let it end in tragedy. He made a promise—to Missy, to Tom, and to everyone who had quietly given up hope that real help would ever come. He said, “I will knock down every roadblock you hand them.”

And that’s exactly what he did.

He fought through the red tape, challenged the delays, and called out every bureaucratic excuse that had kept this couple unhoused for so long. He didn’t just advocate—he bulldozed through a system that had failed them. And at long last, Tom and Missy were approved for housing. Real, stable, accessible housing. A place where Tom can care for Missy without fear. A place where Missy can sleep safely without the threat of arrest or exposure. A place they can finally call home.

And while they now have a place to live, they continue to come to Matthew’s Hope—not out of desperation, but because it’s a part of their healing. It’s where they get support, groceries, case management, and connection. It’s where they’re surrounded by people who know them by name and have stood with them every step of the way. Their story is more than a success. It’s a wake-up call.

Housing should not be a miracle. It should be a right. No one—especially not someone with a disability—should have to hide in the woods, pray not to be seen, and hope that this is the night they make it through.

But what Tom and Missy remind us is this: when the system fails, community steps up. When agencies stall, advocates like James break through. And when darkness creeps in, ministries like Matthew’s Hope keep the light on.

Today, Tom and Missy are no longer just surviving—they’re living. Safely. Together. In peace.

And that is what every human being deserves.

Produced by Jon Burket

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WE WON… SO WHAT?!

By Marc Jablon

If you follow our social media, you may have noticed that we have been nominated for several awards…and frankly, I’m not shy. I want to win. Some reading this might be asking why? Why are these awards so important?

Awareness

Every time Matthew’s Hope gets nominated for an award, we have the opportunity to tell our story. And it’s not just our story; it’s the story of thousands of people in Central Florida who have nowhere else to go. Awards allow Matthew’s Hope to deliver our message in a more positive, upbeat fashion. We un-

They need help, we need help, and it’s our job to let you know. However, sometimes we need to just smile and rejoice because at the end of the day we’re doing God’s work.

Staff and Volunteer Morale

More than anything, we wish we could pay our staff and volunteers what they’re worth. Unfortunately, with operating costs rising and the homeless crisis exploding in Central Florida, our resources are stretched thin. These awards give us the opportunity to recognize our team. Shine the spotlight on their great work. The award galas give some of our staff

Donations and Confidence

The recognition Matthew’s Hope receives from awards often leads to an increase in donations. We understand that there are several not-for-profits in the area. Sometimes we like to believe we’re the only one, however, we know donors have lots of difficult choices. The awards help give donors confidence that Matthew’s Hope is the “Best”.

Like our Platinum GuideStar rating, the Awards we receive tell prospective donors that we can be trusted with their hard-earned money. After all, the recognition we receive is due to members of the community voting and telling their friends. We want to thank you.

We truly appreciate the support.