A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to spend a few days with some people who left a lasting impression on me. This was the kind of assignment that by the time it was finished, it not only became an altogether different kind of article, but it prompted a shift in my own personal thinking, reminding me of the incredible grace and unwavering dedication it takes to genuinely make a difference in the lives of others. It’s happened more than once over the last five years working for SWARK.Today, and every time I feel more and more like what I do isn’t work, but a privilege. I’m fortunate to meet, get to know, and showcase people like those in this article, and they truly deserve the recognition.

It began simply: write a feature on Hope In Action for Hunger Action Month (which was September btw). What I discovered was that even though I knew about Hope In Action, I didn't KNOW. In truth, an organization like this one is only as effective as its people and having a compassionate community in which to serve. After meeting the indomitable Mae Dulaney, Helen Byers, and Craig Tomlinson, I learned what it truly takes to keep a food pantry and a shelter going for almost 40 years. 

The seeds of Hope In Action were planted in 1986 when a group of concerned citizens, including charter member Paul Henley, saw a growing need in their community. Originally named the Hempstead County Resource Council, its mission was to create a central point of contact for individuals experiencing homelessness. Henley, who has served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors since its inception, recalls that it soon became clear that shelter alone was not enough. The organization evolved, changing its name to Hope In Action and establishing a food pantry to address the intertwined issues of homelessness and hunger.

From its earliest days, the effort was a true community collaboration. The Presbytery of the Pines provided essential start-up funding, and the Hope Ministerial Alliance, with members like former pastor Mike Ruark, was instrumental in mobilizing local churches to lend their support. This foundation of community-wide involvement has remained the organization's greatest strength. 

Maintaining an effective shelter and food pantry takes considerable dedication on the part of its people, something that has remained a constant for almost 40 years. Henley is quick to point out though that the true pillars of Hope In Action are those who run its daily operations. "The most significant factor for the sustainability of Hope In Action is its management," Henley states, giving credit to the dedicated staff and volunteers. That statement is something this reporter has witnessed first-hand. 

At Hope In Action #1, the food pantry, Mae Dulaney has been a steady presence for over 27 years. With a warm smile, she explains the process of helping those in need. Individuals and families are met with dignity and organized care, receiving bags of food tailored to the size of their household. When asked how she first became involved, Mae recalls being approached by the late Helen Bearden, who told her the job simply required her to "love people." It’s a philosophy that has guided her every day since. "This really is a community effort," Dulaney says. "I couldn't do this without my volunteers and everybody else." Her small team of dedicated volunteers are the backbone of #1, helping to pack bags and organize the pantry, ensuring that every person who walks through the door is treated with respect. (That day, Judy Vaughn was on the scene to volunteer, like she and several others do every week.)

Just down the road at Hope In Action #2, the homeless shelter, Helen Byers and Craig Tomlinson work tirelessly to provide a safe haven. The facility includes ten rooms with two beds each, transitional apartments for those working toward independence, a communal kitchen, and laundry facilities. Byers' role is vast, managing all administrative duties, overseeing the distribution of goods, serving as the primary point of contact for new arrivals, and so much more. She has dedicated 23 years to the shelter. Tomlinson, a retired engineer and the self-described "jack of all trades," handles everything from maintenance to mowing to driving the van for food pick-up. One of his many essential daily roles is in the kitchen, where he cooks a hot meal every single evening. That meal isn't just for those staying at the shelter; it's for anyone in the community who needs it. The goal at #2 is to offer temporary shelter while assisting individuals in finding employment and permanent housing. What they do though is  more than just manage the facility; they create a home. The continuous efforts of this dynamic duo are what keeps the shelter going; creating a sanctuary for others when they need it most. 

Hope In Action’s reach extends far beyond its physical locations, thanks to a robust network of community partnerships. A crucial collaboration with Harvest Regional Food Bank in Texarkana allows them to receive substantial food donations from Wal-Mart. This food is the lifeblood of the pantry, but the giving doesn't stop there. Hope In Action shares these resources with at least eleven local churches and other organizations, ensuring that food reaches those in need throughout Hempstead County and beyond. Byers thoughts on that are simple, yet profound. "The food that we have donated, we take what we can use and then we share it with the different churches around who give it out to people in the community... That's the way it should be, you know? All of us sharing what we have." 

The organization serves approximately 3,000 individuals each year through its shelter and food bank. The need is ever-present. Dulaney notes that in a single week recently, she processed 74 applications for food assistance, and in one month alone, served 263 people. Those numbers only reflect the number of people who fill out the applications though. The majority of those people have families, so  multiply those numbers by three, four, or sometimes five. These staggering numbers are a reflection of the economic challenges many face, particularly with the rising cost of food.

The Hope In Action team says support from the community is what makes it all possible. From businesses like Super 1 conducting food drives to the many individual citizens who make regular, generous donations, every contribution is vital. This unwavering support was never more evident than a few years ago when the pantry was broken into. Dulaney recalls that after putting the word out, "within two hours, people were already bringing us food." "It's a blessing," she says of the outpouring of support. 

Byers agrees with that sentiment and says that over the years she has seen many similar blessings when the organization was in need. "You know what I tell everybody, and I absolutely, totally, believe it... The Lord Jesus seems to make it happen. For the grace of God, that's what makes all of this possible." Tomlinson says he has seen the same. "There were times Miss Helen would say, 'We sure do need this.' and Bam! The next day somebody dropped by and donated it. Or we'd go for our Wal-mart pick-up and there would be two cases of it waiting for us.” They all agree that a strong community collaboration and a great deal of faith has made the work of Hope-In-Action truly effective. 

On that note, the team is optimistic about the future even though challenges remain. The greatest monthly expense for the organization is utilities. Even when food donations continue to occur, the financial costs of keeping the lights on and the buildings running are significant. Monetary donations from churches, organizations, and individuals are crucial for covering these operational costs. But no matter the challenges, this team remains vigilant and wants the community to know they are here and ready to assist any who might need it. The organization strives to be a place of support, not just charity, offering a helping hand to allow individuals and families to regain their footing. Most of all, there’s no judgement, just an inclination to serve others.

That last statement is one I found to be an honest one when interviewing everyone for this article. What really stood out to me was how genuine they all were in their goals to help people. They aren’t just going through the motions; each and every person honestly cares about helping his or her fellow man. Whether it is someone who works outside, volunteers in the pantry, gives money, donates food, or just stops in for a visit, everyone has the same core belief in common. Hope In Action serves a greater purpose.   

This organization is more than just a shelter or a food pantry; it is a reflection of the character of Hope and its citizens. It is a story of compassionate individuals who saw a need and dedicated their lives to meeting it. It is a narrative of churches, businesses, and neighbors coming together as one to support their own. In a world where the negativity and strife can feel constant and overwhelming, it’s a wonderful reminder that there are people right here in the quiet corners of our community doing good works. And these unsung heroes continue to work each and every day to ensure that no one is left behind.

If you are inspired to contribute, here is how you can lend your support:

• For the Food Pantry (Hope in Action #1): To donate non-perishable food items, make a monetary contribution, or volunteer your time, please contact Mae Dulaney. Donations are welcome at the pantry from Monday through Thursday, between 9 AM and 4 PM. Call 870-777-8227 or visit 606 West 3rd Street, Hope, AR 71801

For the Homeless Shelter (Hope in Action #2): To help with their most critical need of covering utility costs, or to donate items like food, toiletries,linens,etc.  please contact Helen Byers or Craig Tomlinson. They can also provide information on volunteer opportunities, such as helping in the kitchen. Call 870-777-4112 or visit 2500 US-67, Hope, AR 71801