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ANNIVERSARY EDITION

WINTER 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Founder’s Forum

Where Does Santa Find You When You Don’t Have a Home?

Transforming Lives

Meeting The Urgent Needs

Give Hope, Not Just Money:

From Uncertainty to Concern

Leave a Lasting Legacy

Hiding in the Shadows

Real Faces of Homelessness

A Call For Compassion

Feeling the Squeeze

Shelley Bradford Appointed to West Orange Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Hope in Action

The Most Wonderful Time of Year?

He Finds You at Matthew’s Hope

With Mobile Ministries and Outreach Team Services

Supporting Matthew’s Hope Ministries in the Modern World

Transforming the Lives of the Homeless

2023 A Year in Review

Unlock the Benefits of Planned Giving To Support Matthew’s Hope

The Essential Services of Matthew’s Hope in A World of Rising Homelessness

John’s Journey to Independence

Support Matthew’s Hope As They Struggle to Meet Demand

How Inflation is Impacting Communities And How You Can Help

The community coming together

Hiding in the S

The Essential Services of Matt

In a World of Rising Homeles

Shadows

tthew’s Hop

ssness

Where Does Santa Find You When You Don’t Have a Home? He Finds You at Matthew’s Hope

From Uncertainty to Concern

2023 A Year in Review

Matthew’s Hope Founder Scott Billue Writers Marc Jablon, Scott Billue, Shelley Bradford Photography Jon Burket of Imagine Your Marketing Graphics, Layout and Design Amanda Rivera Rosado of Imagine Your Marketing Administrative Offices 611 Business Park Blvd. #101 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Phone: (407) 905-9500 Email: info@matthewshopeministries.org Monday - Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Firm Foundation Preschool & Daycare 740 9th St, Winter Garden, FL 34787 Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Outreach Center 611 Business Park Blvd, St. 101. Winter Garden, FL 34787 Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM Matthew’s Hope Chest Store 1027 S Dillard St, Winter Garden, FL 34787 Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Friday & Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Brevard Location 825 Forrest Ave Cocoa, FL 32922 Monday-Friday: 10 AM - 4 PM

FOUNDER’S FORUM Where does Santa find you when you don’t have a home? It’s the central question in this edition of Moving Forward Magazine. While we answer the question on the front cover, the truth is the answer is far more complicated. Santa’s arrival at Matthew’s Hope is a result of generous donations from the community and we are so thankful…BUT we need more. The harsh reality is that when a family can’t afford Christmas, it also means they can’t pay for their necessities such as food, clothing, and hygiene. On top of that, they have other basic needs such as medical care and preschool. Odd as it may sound, we close for the Christmas holiday as everyone wants to help the homeless during the Holidays, and it is frankly why we give our hard- working employees and volunteers time off so they will be refreshed and ready to go for the other 51 weeks of the year. However, Tuesday, January 2nd is an Outreach Day at Matthew’s Hope and I promise you, we’ll be packed with homeless men, women, and children who need our help. In order to start 2024 off strong, we need your time, talents, and/or treasures to make sure our mission continues. Those we help are our mutual neighbors. I pray that you consider our neighbors not just on Christmas, but throughout the coming year. They need your help, now more than ever. Help Us, Help Them, Help Themselves! Where does Santa find you? He finds you at Matthew’s Hope!

MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

For most of us the Holiday Season is the same. Shortly after we finish our Thanksgiving turkey, we ask our children to make a list for Santa. Our kids rush into their rooms and make their list. Once we have the lists, us parents “help Santa” select the toys. We search for the best deals online and wait for Santa’s elves (disguised as Amazon Drivers) to deliver the packages. On Christmas Eve, we go to Church, have a wonderful family dinner, and then we make Christmas cookies. Remember, we must save a few for Santa (with a glass of milk to wash it down). Then, we tell the kids to hurry off to bed. “Go to sleep. Santa won’t come if you don’t hurry and get to bed”. Finally, Mom and Dad help Santa wrap the gifts and hide them under the tree. We can’t wait for the kids to wake up first thing in the morning with the excitement that only comes from a magnificent Christmas tree with gifts stacked underneath.

All of this sounds really nice, but WHERE DOES SANTA FIND YOU WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE A HOME? Who helps Santa buy the gifts? Does Amazon deliver packages to the woods....And don’t forget, we told the kids to go to sleep. “Santa won’t visit children if they don’t go to bed”. What happens to kids who don’t have a bed? Fortunately, thanks to the generosity of the community, Santa is now able to visit children at Matthew’s Hope. Dozens of local businesses have set up toy drop off locations. These toys are being collected and will be delivered to Matthew’s Hope. On December 16th , Matthew’s Hope will be hosting a Christmas Carnival. Everyone is welcome to join! Kids will be able to play games and visit Santa’s workshop and make a list with the help of Elves. Santa is coming to town, and he’s bringing the North Pole’s cheer with him! Meet the jolly old man himself, share your Christmas wishes, and capture the moment with a magical photo. Struggling Families will receive $100 per child to purchase gifts from Santa’s workshop so Santa can deliver the magic of the Season. Everyone is welcome to join! Families in need, looking to participate and receive help with

MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

toys, please call or email us at 407905-9500 or info@matthewshopemi-

Christmas is a time of joy, sharing, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. However, for some members of our community, the festive season can be a challenging time. At Matthew’s Hope, we believe that every child deserves to have a magical Christmas, no matter their circumstances. That’s why we’re inviting you to join our annual Christmas Carnival with Santa - an event where community members can come together to make a difference for homeless and less-fortunate children. Creating Magical Moments for Children in Need The Christmas Carnival offers a unique opportunity for families, community partners, and individual supporters to help create a fun-filled day for children aged 12 and younger. By hosting a booth, providing a carnival game or activity, or donating towards the event, you can make a significant impact on the lives of children and their families. Each 10x10 booth will have a decorated pop-up tent or table for games and activities, where kids can win small prizes. While the primary goal is

to provide joy and entertainment for the less-fortunate, the event is open to everyone. This inclusive atmosphere not only fosters a sense of unity but also encourages compassion and creates lasting memories for all families involved.

towards the event, please call (407) 905-9500 or email info@MatthewsHopeMinistries.org. Your contribution will not only bring joy to children in need but also demonstrate the power of community and the true spirit of Christmas.

The Joy of Giving: Empowering Parents Through Santa’s Shop

So, don’t hesitate – be a part of the magical Christmas Carnival at Matthew’s Hope, and help us bring festive cheer to the lives of the less-fortunate children in our community. Your participation will make all the difference, creating lasting memories and showcasing the power of generosity and kindness.

A unique aspect of the Christmas Carnival is Santa’s Shop, where children can visit Santa and share their Christmas lists with the help of our volunteer “elves.” Parents can then “shop” for their children and provide Christmas presents themselves – a simple yet powerful way to restore dignity and a sense of self-worth to those facing economic hardship. By participating in our event and supporting Santa’s Shop, you’ll be contributing to a broader mission: empowering parents to provide for their children in a meaningful way. How You Can Help Make the Christmas Carnival a Success In addition to carnival games and activities, the event also seeks assistance in providing food and music to make it a memorable experience for all. By lending your support, you can help Matthew’s Hope create an impact that goes beyond just the day of the event. To host a booth, volunteer, or donate

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In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals and families struggle to access essential services and resources, especially those experiencing homelessness. Mobile Ministry Outreach Teams and Outreach Center Services are committed to bridging this gap for countless community members in need. This article will delve into the remarkable benefits these services offer, supported by reliable sources, and provide recommendations for those looking to engage with these life-changing programs. The Life-Changing Impact of Outreach Services Every Tuesday and Thursday, staff members and volunteers dedicate their time to serve the “least of these” in their community at Matthew’s Hope Outreach Center in Winter Garden (611 Business Park Blvd.) and in Brevard (825 Forrest Ave, Cocoa). Hundreds of people receive assistance weekly with a variety of services, showcasing the love of Christ through their commitment to serve as outlined in the book of Matthew 25:35-40. These services provide a sanctuary for those who may otherwise struggle to access basic necessities. Warm showers, laundry services, fresh clothing, and grooming assistance contribute to maintaining personal health and hygiene. Additionally, the provision of hot breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner to-go, helps combat food insecurity and malnutrition. Beyond addressing physical needs, Outreach Services foster emotional and spiritual well-being. Guests engage with one another, playing games, sharing fellowship, and receiving valuable guidance from staff members who help with benefits, identification cards, and other es-

sential services. Advantages and Disadvantages Outreach Services provide a lifeline to many, but as with any service, there are some disadvantages to consider. While they provide significant support for basic necessities, they may not entirely solve systemic challenges such as access to affordable housing, mental health care, and stable employment opportunities. Despite these drawbacks, the positive impact of these services cannot be overstated. Outreach Centers like Matthew’s Hope not only address urgent needs but also foster a supportive community for those experiencing homelessness.

These programs continue to be an essential lifeline in our modern world, cultivating compassionate communi-

Making the Most of Outreach Services For those looking to benefit from these services or support them, here are some tips: Find the right resources: Assess your needs and search for local outreach services that cater to them specifically. Get involved: Volunteering or donating is a great way to support Outreach Centers and help improve the lives of community members in need. Spread the word: Share information about these services with people who may benefit or be interested in supporting their cause. In conclusion, Mobile Ministry Outreach Teams and Outreach Center Services provide invaluable support for vulnerable individuals and families, offering physical, emotional, and spiritual resources to transform countless lives. Anyone within the scope of “Who We Serve,” including homeless individuals with a connection to the community, is welcome to participate in the services offered. MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

Meeting The Urgent Needs: Supporting Matthew’s Hope Ministries in the Modern World Every day, the needs at Matthew’s Hope Ministries continue to grow, especially as they embark on a new chapter in Brevard County. With the cost of living and inflation driving up food prices, providing pantry goods and hygiene supplies has become a top priority for the organization. Keep reading to learn more about the specific needs and requests from Matthew’s Hope Ministries, as well as how you can help make a meaningful impact on the lives of community members in need.

The Importance of Specific Items for Matthew’s Hope Ministries If you follow Matthew’s Hope Ministries on Facebook, you’ll see regular posts from their Founder, President, and CEO, Scott Billue, expressing the urgent need for grocery donations to replenish their food pantry. Specifically, they require single serve food items and travel size hygiene products. But why are these needs so specific? The answer lies in being good stewards of the resources they receive. After more than a decade of serving the homeless population in Orange County, they have learned which items are most useful and necessary for their guests. Many of the guests live on the streets or in temporary shelters, carrying all their belongings in a backpack or duffle bag. They have limited ability to store and cook food due to their restricted resources. This is why single serve food items and travel size hygiene products become essential.

Advantages of Providing Single Serve Food Safety and Practicality: Large pantry items

may be more cost-effective in a structured home, but for guests experiencing homeless-

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ness, anything that cannot be consumed in one sitting can easily spoil or attract insects. Spoiled food is a major source of illness for those experiencing homelessness. Single serve food items are easier to prepare, safer to consume, and generate less waste.

Easy Transportation: Single serve food items

and travel size hygiene products fit easily into a backpack and can be consumed right away, making them perfect for those who carry all their belongings with them.

Minimizing Street Value: Travel size hygiene

products have no street value and cannot be traded for substances. This ensures that donations go directly towards improving the lives of those in need.

Tips for Supporting Matthew’s Hope Ministries Donate Wisely: Consider donating specific

items requested by Matthew’s Hope Ministries, as they have been carefully chosen to maximize impact and reduce waste.

Spread Awareness: Share their posts on social

media and discuss the organization’s work with friends, family, and co-workers.

Get Involved: Visit www.matthewshopemi-

nistries.org to learn more about volunteering options, monetary donations, and other ways in which you can assist Matthew’s Hope Ministries in meeting their goals. Matthew’s Hope Ministries never wants the specifics of their requests to be seen as ungrateful. Rather, they aim to be good stewards of the resources they receive and effectively support the community they serve. If you feel called to support the mission of Matthew’s Hope, visit their website to find more ways to get involved. Let’s join together to ensure that those in need are recognized, valued, and given the resources necessary to meet the challenges of today’s world.

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You Can Stop Pan Handling! “If you want to end pan handling, STOP HANDING MONEY OUT YOUR WINDOW!” states Scott Billue, Founder and CEO, Matthew’s Hope. When we see someone in need, our first instinct may be to give them money. It makes us feel good at that moment. Especially during the Holidays, we believe we’re making a difference. But the truth is, these random acts of kindness often do little to solve the underlying problems. In this article, we dive into the reasons why giving money to pan handlers is not helpful and in many cases does more harm than good. Further, we will explore why supporting organizations like Matthew’s Hope Ministries can truly transform lives.

The Limits of Handing Out Money Pan handlers, trapped in a cycle of poverty, addiction, and unemployment, will continue to struggle even after pocketing our spare change. And if we continue to hand out money on the streets, we’re not only enabling their dangerous behavior but also perpetuating their hardship. Municipalities have laws against pan handling, but these measures only go so far. Homeless individuals will persist in their efforts, knowing that someone will eventually give them a couple of dollars. But this doesn’t solve their homelessness; it only prolongs their suffering.

The Power of Supporting Non-profits That’s why we’re urging you to change your approach. Instead of giving money to pan handlers, support non-profit organizations and ministries dedicated to helping the homeless. By donating supplies, and clothing, or directly

MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

contributing to these organizations, you can make a real impact. Organizations like Matthew’s Hope Ministries understand the complexities of homelessness and offer a comprehensive range of services. They provide showers, meals, clothing, medical and mental healthcare, life skills training, transitional housing, and other resources. With your support, people struggling with unemployment, addiction, and mental health issues can get the help they need to start a new life off the streets.

Get Involved and Make a Difference So the next time you encounter a homeless person, don’t reach for your wallet. Instead, tell them about Matthew’s Hope and where they can find help. Visit www.matthewshopeministries.org to make a donation and learn about their programs and outreach services. And for those ready to make an even greater impact, consider volunteering at their Orange County or Brevard County campuses.

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For Matthew’s Hope, 2023 started off with uncertainty and ends with concern as we continue to see increased demand for our services in both Orange and Brevard counties. The increase in demand continues to rise each week while we’re dealing with a dramatic decrease in average donations even though our Donor base continues to grow and is larger than any other time in our history. It’s a simple math problem. High inflation means less disposable income for our donors and less money for our struggling population to afford their basic needs. Matthew’s Hope will typically receive 40% of our donations for the entire year over the last quarter. “Unfortunately, donations have not been keeping up with the rapidly increasing demand for services thus depleting our reserves to nothing. So, I can only raise the “red flag” in hopes that our community will respond. This crisis we find ourselves in is clearly a result of our country coming out of an economically crippling pandemic, coupled with a housing crisis fueled by inflation and high interest rates. When you add in an aging population, and several natural disasters over the past few years, it has created the perfect storm for a grassroots hometown nonprofit such as Matthew’s Hope.” stated CEO and Founder, Scott Billue. From Thanksgiving 2022 to Thanksgiving 2023 Matthew’s Hope has hosted 18,691 visits and provided $1,585,086 in much needed Food, Clothing and Hygiene Items to the homeless men, women, and children of our community, along with Medical Assistance valued at over $360,000! While this is not a comprehensive list of all that we have done, nor does it include the cost of doing business such as insurance, payroll, rents, mortgages, and utilities, etc., here are a few “fun facts” of what the past year has

looked like: year has looked like: Female Visits – 4,804 Male Visits – 13,886 963 New Guest Registrations 54,310 lbs. of Non-Perishable Pantry Food 9,237 Hot Meals Served 15,076 Prepared Lunches 11,036 Showers 1,425 Haircuts 2,011 Loads of Laundry 3,891 Deodorants 3,276 Rolls of Toilet Paper 6,933 Boxers/Boxer Briefs 1,863 Ladies Panties 9,788 Shirts 1,641 Jeans/Pants 10,330 pair of Socks 1,427 pair of Shoes 383 Jackets 288 Tents 843 Blankets 392 Sleeping Bags Although Brevard unofficially opened its doors in June 2022. The demand for services has been huge since opening our Showers, Hair Salon, Food Pantry, Medical Offices and Laundry Service in September 2023. Let me throw in a few more “fun facts” … Did you know that the fast-

est growing segments of our growth is from the following populations? 1) Seniors Yes seniors, seniors who did everything right, worked hard to retire, got the gold watch, and built a pension to live on however that pension was not designed for this economy and so at 75 they are finding themselves homeless for the very first time. 2) Individuals with Physical and/or Mental Disabilities (Not talking about mental illness here) These are individuals that used to not live well past their 30’s who now, due to modern medicine, are outliving their caregivers by decades and no plan was put into place for their care so they end up on our streets. 3) Young Adults and Young Families These folks can no longer qualify to rent a $2000 a month apartment because they cannot prove an income of three times their rent, nor do they have the $6,000 to move in (plus utility deposits, etc.) $2,000 is becoming typical for a one-bedroom apartment in central Florida meaning you would need an income of $72,000 just to qualify! The bottom line, we need your help to continue! We are now at the point where we are using our operating budget to help replenish our Food Pantry and provide basic services for our Homeless Guests. Can you help with your time, talents, and/or treasures? Matthew’s Hope is not a government funded agency. We are a ministry supported by our community, for our community. We would appreciate your support as we move forward in 2024. Please consider us in your year-end giving, and prayerfully consider becoming a Sustaining Partner with an ongoing monthly gift, whether it be $10, $25, $100, or whatever you are comfortable in sacrificing, just know we are appreciative and we will continue to be good stewards of your graciousness. Blessings! MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE 15

Planned giving provides a remarkable opportunity to make a lasting impact for your community and Matthew’s Hope. By incorporating charitable donations into your estate plan, you can help ensure Matthew’s Hope’s future while leaving behind a meaningful legacy of support. In this article, we’ll discuss the various types and benefits of planned giving and how your contributions can help support the critical work of Matthew’s Hope in Orange and Brevard County. A Gift That Keeps on Giving: The Advantages of Planned Giving There are numerous benefits to planned giving — both for the donors and for the organizations like Matthew’s Hope that they support. Here are a few key advantages: Tax Benefits By incorporating planned gifts into your estate plan, you may receive significant tax benefits. Bequests can potentially reduce federal estate taxes, while some gift types, like charitable remainder trusts, have tax-exempt status. Customizable Giving Options There is no one-size-fits-all approach to planned giving. Gifts can take various forms, from simple bequests to more complex trusts and annuities. Donors can select a giving method that best aligns with their financial situation and strategic goals.

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Flexibility and Control Regardless of income level, planned gifts don’t impact everyday cash flow and are accessible to everyone. Donors have the flexibility to choose how and where their money is spent, and updating bequests is simple, allowing for changes in their wishes or financial circumstances. Choosing the Right Planned Gift for You and Your Legacy There are several options available for those considering planned giving. Here are a few popular choices: Bequests A bequest is a straightforward and common method of planned giving. By allocating a portion of your assets to Matthew’s Hope in your will, trust, or estate plan, you can significantly impact the organization’s future. Charitable Gift Annuities These types of planned gifts involve a contract between the donor and the organization. The donor makes a gift in exchange for fixed income payments for life, benefiting both parties. Non-Cash Assets Donating non-cash assets, such as stock or real estate, is also a viable option. Organizations like Matthew’s Hope can utilize these assets to fulfill their expanding needs in the community.

Retirement Fund Contributions Consider donating directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or utilizing Pooled Income Funds. This approach allows you to support Matthew’s Hope while enjoying potential tax benefits. Maximizing Your Planned Giving Impact To ensure that your planned gift aligns with your personal and financial goals, it is essential to seek professional assistance from financial advisors, accountants, and estate planning attorneys. These experts can guide you in maximizing the benefits of your gift, helping you make an informed decision that serves both your interests and those of Matthew’s Hope. If you’re passionate about leaving a lasting legacy through helping others, now is the time to take action. Reach out to Pastor Scott Billue at Matthew’s Hope to discuss how your gift can best align with the organization’s mission. By embracing planned giving, you can make a significant difference in the lives of those served by Matthew’s Hope while securing your impactful legacy for years to come. Don’t hesitate to make a difference today.

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recognize that our guests face numerous other challenges as well. From addiction and mental health issues to physical trauma and unemployment, our communities are grappling with a wide range of circumstances.

Beneath the gleaming office buildings and the booming residential construction lies a sub-community that is often overlooked and under-represented. While Central Florida experiences growth and development, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in the number of neighbors facing the unsheltered crisis in Orange and Brevard Counties. Combined with rising inflation, the damaging impact on both our guests and our outreach efforts at Matthew’s Hope is undeniable.

The Multi-Faceted Struggles of the Homeless Population When we think about homelessness, finding affordable housing for the unsheltered is often our first concern. However, at Matthew’s Hope, we

Lack of access to clean clothes, proper hygiene, and showers hinders our guests’ ability to secure employment. That’s why we strive to provide these services to all our guests at Matthew’s

Matthew’s Hope aims to address these complex issues holistically. As an organization, we believe in empowering our guests to help themselves. We provide them with the tools and resources not only to survive but to rise out of homelessness and regain stability. That’s why it’s crucial to support them on their journeys to self-sustainability and help them “hide in plain sight”.

Invisibility: The Key to Integration and Recovery What does it mean to hide in plain sight and how does Matthew’s Hope facilitate this? These questions have complex answers, but they are incredibly important. As commercial and residential development expands throughout Winter Garden, Apopka, Pine Hills, Cocoa, and other neighborhoods in West Orange and Brevard Counties, those experiencing homelessness struggle to find safe places to live. That’s why Matthew’s Hope focuses on providing tools and resources that allow our guests to blend in and better themselves without being labeled as “homeless”. One way we assist our guests in hiding in plain sight is by ensuring they don’t appear “homeless”. In addition to providing meals during our outreach service days, we offer access to showers, clean clothing, and laundry services to ensure they have fresh clothes throughout the week. We also supply hygiene and wellness items to support them between our outreach services.

Essential Services: Breaking the Stigma and Empowering the Unsheltered

Hope. Furthermore, with the help of volunteers, we offer access to barber services, allowing our guests to look and feel their best when seeking jobs. Employment assistance and job training workshops are also available to provide valuable skills that may have otherwise remained inaccessible. In terms of mental health support, Matthew’s Hope offers counseling services and connects guests with professional treatment providers. Our efforts in tackling addiction issues are also supported by AA and NA meetings, which are regularly held in our facility.

The Road Ahead: Support and Community Involvement Now more than ever, community members, families, and the working class are encouraged to support organizations like Matthew’s Hope. Their continued efforts to aid the homeless population are vital in providing stability, hope, and a sense of humanity to some of the most vulnerable among us. By reaching out, volunteering, and donating to these organizations, we can participate in a collective effort to make a difference and be a part of the solution. MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

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Homelessness is a struggle faced by many, leading to painful experiences and an overwhelming feeling of helplessness. One such story is that of John, whose life took a sudden turn, leaving him without a roof over his head. In this article, we explore John’s journey towards self-sufficiency, the challenges he overcame, and the lessons learned along the way, demonstrating that there is hope and a path to recovery for those who find themselves in similar situations. Down the Rabbit Hole: Realizing the Need for Help John’s life was up-ended when financial troubles, car problems, and unpaid back child support led to the loss of his residence and driver’s license. As he spiraled down the rabbit hole of homelessness, John realized that it was practically impossible to escape the situation on his own. It took courage to swallow the hard pill of admitting his homeless state and acknowledging the need to seek help. This was a crucial step in his journey towards rebuilding his life. Accepting the Reality and Avenues of Assistance Coming to terms with homelessness is difficult for anyone who experiences

it, as the feeling of being “one of them” tends to instill a sense of despair. However, embracing the reality of homelessness is pivotal to accessing the available support. For John, this understanding set him on a path to find programs that could assist him through the challenging times. The Power of Perseverance and Ingenuity John enrolled into the Moving Forward program that helped him pay off his $20,000 debt and secure his future. He immersed himself in the Hope Chest, an initiative by Matthews Hope, where he got the chance to use his creativity and thoughtfulness to establish a shop and negotiate the debt down. Through perseverance and determination, John was able to build a solid foundation for his life to thrive.

Making the Most of Available Resources While Matthews Hope played a crucial role in providing a conduit for John’s journey, ultimately, it was John’s initiative and resourcefulness that led to his independence. It is essential for anyone in a similar situation to believe in their own potential and make the most of any resources they come across. With dedication and hard work, a brighter future becomes an attainable goal. There’s Hope and a Path to Independence John’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an example that even in the darkest times, there is a way out. For those experiencing homelessness, accepting the reality of the situation and seeking available help is key to establishing a foundation from which they can rebuild their lives. By utilizing resources and believing in themselves, individuals like John can overcome the obstacles of homelessness and forge a path to a brighter, more stable future. 21 MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINEZINE

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FEELING THE SQUEEZE: HOW INFLATION IS IMPACTING COMMUNITIES AND HOW YOU CAN HELP Struggling with inflation? You’re not alone. The rising cost of food is hitting those facing food insecurities the hardest, as witnessed first-hand at Matthew’s Hope Ministries. “We’ve seen an increasing number of guests seeking essential food and supplies to survive, as inflation sky-rockets in Central Florida and across the country. As the demand for assistance continues to rise, it’s putting an immense financial burden on our organization and those we serve” Stated Scott Billue, Founder and CEO of Matthew’s Hope. On a weekly basis, Matthew’s Hope has experienced an increase of around 35 new guests, and we are now feeding over 425 people every week through our Food Pantry outreach. Juxtaposed with the growing number of guests is an alarming 35% increase in food costs, coupled with a decline in donated food and supplies over the past six months. Understanding the Impact of Inflation on Food Insecurity and Local Communities As inflationary pressures grow, it’s crucial to understand the impacts on vulnerable populations seeking help at places like Matthew’s Hope. With over $1,585,086 already spent on items such as food, hygiene products, medical supplies, and clothing, our organization is continually striving to serve more than 1,500 guests each month. Unfortunately, dwindling supplies and empty Food Pantry shelves signify the terrifying

reality for those depending on these essential resources. In the words of Scott Billue, President and CEO of Matthew’s Hope Ministries, “Empty shelves mean groceries that our guests won’t have.” What You Can Donate to Make a Meaningful Difference Spreading the word about the urgent need for donations is vital during these challenging times. Matthew’s Hope requires certain single-served food items more urThe Orlando Fordincluding: Team rallied together gently than based others, to support Matthew’s Hope

• • • • • • •

Vienna sausage SPAM Canned vegetables Raviolis Ramen noodles Soups Fruit cups

In addition to food, we need travel-sized hygiene and wellness supplies for both men and women. Critical items include: • • • • • • • • • •

Body wash Shampoo Conditioner Toothpaste Toothbrushes Combs Brushes Wet wipes Deodorant Neosporin

We also need gently used clothing, socks, undergarments, and shoes of all sizes.

The Orlando based Ford Team rallied together to support Matthew’s Hope.

Taking Action: Engaging with Your Local Community If you’re interested in making in-kind donations, financial contributions, or volunteering, please contact Matthew’s Hope Ministries at (407) 9059500, or visit our Orange County campus in Winter Garden or our Brevard County campus in Cocoa. For more information, visit our website at matthewshopeministries.org. With so many families and individuals struggling in the face of inflation, it’s crucial that we all come together to provide a helping hand. Supporting organizations like Matthew’s Hope Ministries can mean the difference between a family going to bed hungry or having a warm meal. Every contribution helps, and so does sharing this article to raise awareness about the severity of inflation’s impact on food insecurity in our communities.

MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

A CALL FOR COMPASSION: SUPPORT MATTHEW’S HOPE AS THEY STRUGGLE TO MEET DEMAND

During this holiday season, we are reminded of the joy that comes from giving and caring for others. In Winter Garden, a precious gem of the community - Matthew’s Hope has long been dedicated to serving our homeless population, providing them with essential resources, a warm environment, and a sense of community. This year, however, the nonprofit organization faces severe difficulties as donations dramatically decline, leaving their pantry and store nearly empty and their doors on the verge of closing for good. As Scott Billue, the founder of Mat-

thew’s Hope, recalls, “it has been at least five years since the food pantry has been so bare.” This alarming situation is concerning for the organization that supports more than 250 people relying on the food pantry for their weekly meals. With a decrease in donations due to the challenging economic situation, Matthew’s Hope is in urgent need of both non-perishable food items and financial support. Understandably, the pandemic, stagnant economy, and housing crisis have all taken a massive toll on middle-class individuals who previously contributed generously to the organization. Moreover, rising grocery prices have also played a significant role in diminished donations. With operating funds meant for essential needs like insurance redirected to purchasing supplies, the organization is now hanging by a thread. In order to continue their vital mission of serving those in need, Matthew’s Hope requires the support of their community now more than ever. Non-perishable food items urgently needed are SPAM, Beanie Weenies, and Chef Boyar-

dee microwavable meals, while cash donations, regardless of the amount, are gratefully appreciated. It is crucial to remember that without more support, Matthew’s Hope faces the devastating possibility of closing down. Every single contribution you make, whether monetary or otherwise, can make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing homelessness. We urge you to embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season and rally together to ensure the survival of Matthew’s Hope. By donating to the cause, you can maintain their crucial services and essential resources for the most vulnerable members in our community during these challenging times. So let’s come together and make a difference, Winter Garden; together, we can keep their doors open and their pantry stocked for those who need it most.

MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

Shelley Bradford Appointed to West Orange Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Matthew’s Hope Ministries is proud to announce that our Vice President, Shelley Bradford, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce. Shelley Bradford, who originally joined Matthew’s Hope Ministries in 2018, has made a lasting impact in her time here. Thanks to her steadfast commitment and dedicated leadership in the West Orange Community, the Board of Directors of the Chamber confirmed the appointment of Bradford as a new Director. Founded in 1972, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC) serves as the leading business advocate in Central Florida by advancing community, collaboration, and leadership for over 1,150 member businesses. “In naming Shelley Bradford to the Chamber’s Board of Directors, is an affirmation of the role she truly plays in being not just my right hand at Matthew’s Hope, but also my partner in the West Orange Community where Matthew’s Hope was founded more than 13 years ago”

stated Scott Billue, President and CEO of Matthew’s Hope. “I could not and would not attempt to build a second campus, now serving the Central Brevard County community without her. I can also say that it is very likely that much of what has taken place with our growth in these past three years would not have happened without her involvement. I love her, I respect her, and I admire the person she is. The Chamber of Commerce is truly lucky to have her on their team as we continue to serve the community” added Scott Billue. Trained as a crisis responder by the National Guard; Shelley is also a human behavior specialist, a certified master life coach with certifications in leadership, relationships, parenting, health and wellness. Shelly is also a graduate of Light University and of Leadership West Orange. Shelley is happily married to her husband Darren and has three children - Amanda, Thomas and Meyer. A proud supporter of the arts, she has been involved with local Orlando theaters in various acting roles; her entire family is active in Crossfit and powerlifting.

two amazing organizations” stated Shelley Bradford, Vice President, Matthew’s Hope Ministries.

“I would like to thank both the West Orang Chamber of Commerce and Matthew’s Hope Ministries for giving me the honor to serve the community. It am blessed to work with these MOVING FORWARD MAGAZINE

EXCITING GROWTH BRINGS EXCITING FUTURE ORANGE COUNTY CAMPUS DIRECTOR’S THOUGHTS Andrea Pumar and Bobby McCulley-Stacy

ANNIVERSARY EDITION

WITH THE DAWN OF EACH NEW DAY, ROSADO BRINGS DESIGNED BY AMANDA RIVERA Christmas CarnivalDecember 16th NEW HOPE. AT IMAGINE MARKETING