In the heart of the HEB community, the organization 6 Stones is making a significant impact on the lives of children and families through a range of critical programs. Recently, our office had the privilege to visit the New Hope Center in Hurst, where we met with Jen Leney, Executive Director, and Trasa Coburn, Chief Development Officer, to tour the food pantry and their offices.
Founded in 2009, 6 Stones' Home for Hope program has been providing emergency assistance, including food, clothing, resources, backpacks, school supplies, and home revitalization services. And now, they are gearing up to expand their impact even further. Their new Home for Hope facility, scheduled to open in July 2024, will enhance their ability to serve the community. The new facility will offer a client-choice food pantry, allowing neighbors in need to shop for groceries with dignity and independence.
The client-choice model provides community members with an electronic card preloaded with their family information. They can then select groceries of their choice, following the guidelines provided. A cashier assists with the checkout process, and families are even aided in loading their groceries into their vehicles. This approach emphasizes dignity and satisfaction for those being served.
Apart from Home for Hope, 6 Stones offers the Momentum Mentoring program, which empowers participants to overcome life's challenges and achieve physical, spiritual, emotional, and economic stability. This four-month program includes classroom-based lessons on budgeting, financial literacy, interview skills, and resume building. The mentor/mentee journey continues with meetings and calls aimed at improving goal-setting and forming good habits.
Each year, 6 Stones also hosts the Night of Hope event, spreading Christmas joy to over 3,300 children and their families. The event includes gifts, a Christmas meal, and hope for students and families at 21 different HEB ISD elementary campuses.
Another initiative, Operation Back 2 School, provides students with new backpacks and school supplies, ensuring they are well-prepared for the academic year. This effort extends beyond back-to-school time, connecting parents with resources to support them throughout the year. It's made possible through the dedication of hundreds of community volunteers, a partnership with HEB ISD, and other community organizations.
