In recent years, Joy Closet volunteers have noticed the value of having a home specifically for children who are removed from their homes and entering the foster care system.
In April, a series of events kicked off the Hope House initiative. The Hope House aims to provide a friendly and comforting home setting for children on removal day with a loving environment with bedrooms for overnight stays. It includes a stocked kitchen where children can enjoy a meal of their choice along with necessary hygiene items.
During a visit with the Hopkinsville Kiwanis Club last week, Hope House Manager Julia Roberts said that donations for items for the eventual fully constructed home are pouring in.
Joy Closet Executive Director Heather Gray said they’ve collected around $60,000 in monetary donations from various community members and organizations. Additionally, Roberts shared they are accepting naming rights donations for whole rooms.
The Hope House will also have toys, crafts, and a gaming area. Additionally, there will be office space available for Department of Community-Based Service (DCBS) workers to use during their stay.
Both Gray and Roberts stressed the primary goal of Hope House is to reduce the trauma children experience on removal day by offering a nurturing environment where they can be bathed, fed, and distracted from their current situation, allowing them to feel more at ease compared to current DCBS office settings.
Donations for the project can be made here. Legacy Metals will construct the house at an undisclosed location after the property was donated to Joy Closet.
