Mary Jones

The Caldwell community was a community in need of a serious overhaul. Slowly vanishing was enthusiasm, energy and vision. This cry from the community landed on deaf ears of our elected officials but NOT those of the saints of Hope Church. The presence of Hope has been and remains a breath of fresh air and a positive impact on the residents and passersby of this neighborhood.

Oasis of Hope has truly been that, an “oasis” in a dry land that was rapidly depleting. A vital force and influence in the community, Oasis of Hope provides support and encouragement for all of the students and faculty at Caldwell Elementary School. Tutoring, reading, sports leagues, Bible studies and mentoring programs are available to the youth and their families. Easter Egg Hunts, Vacation Bible Schools, Community Festivals, Thanksgiving baskets, Christmas Trees of Hope and the building of new affordable homes in this community are just some examples of the things that have brought life back into this North Memphis neighborhood.

As a major donor to the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church “Earnestine Nealon Feeding Ministry,” Oasis of Hope not only brought in-kind donations, over 10,000 lbs of donated food through Hope’s Urban Food Drive, but also the commitment of time. Each week they aid in the delivery of meals to our community’s homebound/disabled seniors. Oasis of Hope is almost like Eyewitness News, ‘always on the scene when people are in need.’

The Caldwell/Seventh Street community also benefited from the Oasis of Hope ministry. Their consistent day to day presence at The Green House as well as in and around the community has made a positive impact, while changing some hearts for Christ. They’re hands on, in the streets, in homes, in schools, in churches, always ready to listen to others with an open heart and open mind, while remaining authentic and real with people is a blessing to witness. This 24/7, on call, Christ-centered and life-on-life approach to community outreach has been the road less traveled here in Caldwell; this was until God placed Oasis of Hope at its crossroads with all of its twists and turns. This is Oasis’ road to sharing God’s Word while serving and loving all God’s people.

It’s not often you find people who genuinely care and sincerely want to make a difference lie the Oasis of Hope family. Karen and Kay are the backbone and share a love and passion for helping others that can only be compared to Jesus love for us. We take time to say ‘thank you’ to the entire Hope Church family for your time, talent and resources that you have deposited in this community.

May our Father reward you greatly for your “simple acts of kindness.”

Mary Jones
Community Outreach Director
Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church
Alumni of Caldwell Elementary and Manassas High School