New building expands New Hope Resource Center

The new building housing New Hope Resource Center on the campus of Colbert Presbyterian Church opened in March.

It expands services to include a clothing bank and educational and informational opportunities.
Contributions from supporting churches, New Hope’s board, volunteers and local businesses—donating money, time and resources to defray construction costs—“exemplifies Christ’s love for our neighbors in need,” said Linda Rodin of the board.

The Rev. Eric Peterson, pastor of Colbert Presbyterian, said the center is the congregation’s “watershed outreach ministry,” shared with 12 area churches to serve the poor and elderly.
It is exciting for its mission and its ecumenical nature, he said.

“Paying for it is presenting us with an ironic challenge.  With an economic downturn pressing hard upon us, the needs among the poor, the elderly, the unemployed and the uninsured are increasing dramatically,” he said.  “They need our help.  That economic climate creates a challenging climate to fund it.  Almost everyone is feeling the pinch.”

Eric is confident that by pursuing creative options the church will reach its capital campaign goals for the project.  As of early March, $162,000 toward a total construction cost of $375,000 was raised.

At the same time, the churches keep up their appeal for funds and items to supply the food, necessities and clothing banks, and for volunteers to help with transportation, utilities, prescriptions, gasoline, rental assistance, carpentry, vehicle repairs, fire wood and chore services for clients in North Spokane County.

Other churches contributing to the center are St. Joseph Catholic -Colbert, Northview Bible, Whitworth Presbyterian, Timberview Christian Fellowship, Covenant United Methodist, Christian Life Church, Greenbluff United Methodist, Chattaroy Community, Crossover Church, New Creation Fellowship, Mount Spokane Church and Colbert Chapel.

The center began as the North Spokane County Outreach Project in 2002 under Colbert Presbyterian Church, at 4211 E. Colbert Rd.

It is open 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus 6 to 8 p.m., Thursdays.

For information, call 467-2900 or email jlnewhope@yahoo.com.

Copyright © April 2009 - The Fig Tree