C.B., a former resident writes, "House of Hope helped me through my hard times".

On May 16th, I was evicted from my home of 11 years. I did not  (know) what (to do) or where to go. My brother-in-law and friend told me about the House of Hope so I went there, was met by the house monitor, and he took me in, and showed me around, introduced me to everyone. I have been on my own most of my adult life. I was very nervous but as time went by I got used to everyone and from there got to know everybody in charge and found that for a shelter for homeless people, total strangers, I was treated like I was someone who did matter and not just some dirty old homeless person.

I got fed, I got a roof over my head and I got treated with respect.  The House of Hope has saved me from God only knows what in the way of suffering.    I have been shown that although I am not back on my own (yet), there is a chance for me.

I am now starting to get work and as spring approaches I may be able to actually be on my own.

The House of Hope is the best thing I have ever experienced in the way of helping a total stranger believe in himself, and never ever give up. This place is so full of love and kindness and always positive attitude, there is no way they would allow you to fail in any endeavor that you pursue. I don’t want to sound too mushy but I myself love the House of Hope and everything it portrays.

  

- C.B. is now living on his own and working in construction.

M.D.C., a former resident writes, "There are so many fine things I would like to say about the House of Hope that I scarcely know where to begin".

In my own case I came here feeling at the end of my rope, with no where else to turn and very little hope for my future.

Expecting a dark, squalid and chaotic flop house with scruffy men and an uncaring indolent staff, I could not have been more wrong.

To my surprise I found a bright, very clean, well organized and orderly house. The first people I met, were two other residents, who were both  kind, understanding and very helpful gentlemen. They were key, along with Staff members in helping me to begin surmounting my own obstacles, and to realize that everyone is worth something.  They all showed me that is not too late to put my life back in order.  They express their individual faith by their many good deeds and quiet concern.

I believe that the House of Hope is essential for men who may have otherwise fallen through the cracks of society in these difficult economic times. I believe that the House of Hope provides an important service, not only to the men involved, but also to the citizens of Front Royal, Warren County, and the State of Virginia.

  

- Today M.D.C. works for a local non-profit organization and lives on his own. He has started a Handyman business and works as a landscaper, and home remodeling contractor.

J.L.R., a former resident writes, "I was fifty-six years old when I learned what it means to be homeless".

Unemployed due to a herniated heart, I was unable to pay my rent and was sleeping in my car.  The chill factor was subzero some nights and my food was a box of dry cereal that lasted for a month.  My bathrooms were public rest rooms.

The police shone flashlights in the car one night and interviewed me.  I believe they arranged for me to go to the Salvation Army in Winchester: Three meals a day, and a shower required daily and a warm room to sleep in. I lived at the Salvation Army for six months and was transferred to the House of Hope through Social Services.  The Salvation Army and House of Hope have fine personnel, clean environment (all residents pitch in to do chores: sweep, vacuum, mop) and the residents are alcohol and drug free.  Testing for alcohol is done daily at House of Hope.  Testing for drugs is less frequent but is done randomly. Proper conduct (respect and courtesy) is demanded.  Anything less is reason for expulsion.

As a person who nearly froze and starved I can tell you the difference between House of Hope and the street is the difference between Heaven and Hell.

  

- Today J.L.R lives in his own apartment and receives disability.