There is Hope.
Transitional Housing
We understand the fear and stress of asking for help, but we are neither an emergency shelter or a “cot and a hot” program that is able to welcome people in immediately. We are a transitional housing program designed to help women move from a lifestyle of brokenness to a lifestyle of abundance in Christ.
At the Center of Hope, there is a process that begins with a phone call (803-581-5890) to discuss individual circumstances. If the Center of Hope is not the right fit, we will be able to share other options or opportunities.
If the needs and goals of the applicant match the resources of the Center, we schedule an in-person interview. Background checks and a drug test on the day of entry into the program round out the process, which usually takes about a week. To learn more about the Center, our manual is on the Hope & Help page.
Let's Show the World - God's Word Works
Our world is in the midst of a mental health crisis. The church – who has THE Answer – has deferred to secular psychology and failed to bring the Hope of Jesus Christ to those suffering from mental broken-ness. Medicine and psychology are valuable sciences in dealing with the mental health crisis. Psychiatric medicines often stabilize brain chemistry so thought processes and the capacity for relationships (with God and others) can develop. But psychology and pharmacology are incomplete without the input of skilled Biblical counsel.
As the Body of Christ, it is our responsibility to understand and share with the hurting how Jesus is the answer to the hurts of life and the healing needed. Words alone — even words of theological truth-- are simply an irritation at best and a cause of wounds in many hearts. When a person’s best efforts and unanswered prayers land them in a crisis, they need more than an admonition to pray more or remember God is good. We can do better. We can increase our skills and learn to come along side others as Christ has come along side each of us. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, the source of Hope, and He wants more of His people.
“I have come that they might have life – and have it more abundantly,” said Jesus.
He didn't change His mind, and the Center of Hope is excited to be a place where HIS HOPE enters in -- and radiates out!
The Center of Hope cares deeply about mental wellness because mental ill-health is a leading factor in homelessness. Moving our residents back to independent living necessitates addressing mental health needs. Equipping staff to come alongside each individual is stewardship of the opportunity we have here at the Center. Our ladies are unique in their courage and willingness to conquer strongholds. We owe it to them to provide skilled biblical counselors who can lead them to truth and hope in the most life-changing ways. Our needs at the Center of Hope create an opportunity for God to radiate out hope into the entire community of Chester.
We utilize Biblical Counsel materials from a variety of sources, including the American Association of Christian Counselors, Hope for the Heart, and the International Biblical Counsel and Discipleship. We are glad to share the videos or handouts with you any time. Some of our topics include Grief, Anxiety, and Suicide. We also choose a monthly spiritual focus that we share with any who ask.
Call and let us know how we can come alongside YOU!
If you would like to know more about how to put your faith (and the Word) to work, consider taking this course from the American Association of Christian Counselors. Breakthrough to Hope
The American Association of Christian Counselors has a wonderful FREE resource we recommend as a starting point.
The Body of Christ can make a major difference in our world - it is our calling!