We never know why women are homeless; the circumstances differ, but the consequences are the same. Women without a place to live feel helpless, hopeless and alone. Until perfect strangers step up to help.
Bags of Hope is an outreach ministry out of the Emmanuel Gospel Center in Boston. Founded by Jasmine Grace, a modern-day abolitionist who found the strength to share her story in a memoir, Bags of Hope is a ministry driven by the community.
Many different groups of people and individuals are donating useful and inspiring items for homeless women, filling literal “Bags of Hope,” and handing them out to women on the street.
“By doing this we let the women know there is a better way, they are treasured, and we are here to help,” Jasmine says.
After dating a man who would eventually sell her body, to finding redemption in the back seat of a car, Jasmine’s memoir reveals the strengths, vulnerabilities and processes that changed her.
Jasmine founded Bags of Hope as a way to reach out in a practical way to women living on the streets or in programs throughout the Boston area, women affected by trafficking, prostitution, addiction and homelessness.
“Our goal is to bring awareness as well as provide basic needs to these women,” Jasmine writes. “What many do not know is that homeless women are not just victims of poor decisions but often times are victims of unforeseen circumstances. Many have been traumatized, victimized and suffer from untreated mental illness and substance abuse.”
In addition to the gifts in each bag, there are resource cards.
“If I can make it off the streets, so can they,” Jasmine says.
Over 3,000 bags have been given out – and I encourage all our followers to donate so Jasmine can continue this generous and loving movement.
If you would like to donate items or host a BOH event, Please email the Bags of Hope Coordinator, Anita – acunha@egc.org.
If you would like to make a safe & secure tax deductible donation visit EGC’s Website.
You can also “Like” Bags of Hope Ministries on Facebook.
Deb
