Member of the Month – November 2020

The rising challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t slowed a local ministry organization from serving our community. It just had to adapt while continuing to welcome those in need with love and care. Rockingham Hope is a non-profit, faith-based, Christ-centered ministry that seeks to meet the physical, emotional, and

spiritual needs of residents of Rockingham County.

Formerly named Rockingham Rescue Mission, Rockingham Hope initiated a reorganization and consolidation process to improve operational efficiency over the last half of 2019. “It is hard to believe that over one year ago we began a journey of transition that at the time seemed difficult to overcome, but our faith, persistence and hard work has borne much fruit,” said Rockingham Hope Director Tom Wiggins. The organization is located at 3692 NC Highway 14 and shares a portion of its building with the American Red Cross.

Rockingham Hope operates an appointment-based community food pantry that serves upwards of 500 unduplicated households per month. Approximately one-third of those households have someone over the age of 60 years. Adherence to family income guidelines is required for appointments so that the needs of the most food insecure residents are met. Those in an emergency hardship situation can seek assistance as well. Rockingham Hope also provides free consultations with volunteer nurses and volunteer licensed counselors for personal wellness and mental health/emotional support. Application of the Bible and prayer also plays a significant role in how the ministry helps clients to live a better, more fulfilling life knowing there is a God who loves them.

Beginning in June, the organization provided a new mobile pantry home delivery service to existing clients primarily over the age of 70 and with a disability. Many of these persons lack consistent food resources and transportation options. Volunteers will deliver food to their doors monthly to help meet these needs. Due to COVID-19, Rockingham Hope changed its pantry operation in March to a drive-through only service, and this is anticipated to continue in the near future.

Rockingham Hope’s long-term vision includes the development of a hot meal site [soup kitchen] and to plan a free health care services concept. This may require a new building location since adequate physical space as well as vehicular and pedestrian accessibility is desired so Rockingham Hope can operate all of its services under one roof. The organization believes it can best achieve this vision through working with other interested stakeholders. “We value and desire ongoing partnerships with community organizations, churches and businesses to create win-win opportunities in a way that honors and builds God’s kingdom,” said Mr. Wiggins.

Due to the increased demand of residents who need help during this time, Rockingham Hope is in need of non-perishable food items,

personal hygiene supplies, and monetary donations. All donations are used directly in the operations budget and help to maintain food inventories and to pay for such other expenses as utilities, delivery truck fuel, building maintenance, office supplies, etc. Rockingham Hope also has volunteer opportunities available. If interested in donating or volunteering contact the organization at (336) 623-2133. Rockingham Hope’s regular business hours are Mon. - Thur. 9 AM to 4 PM.