22 Things That Gave Us HOPE in 2022

A look at the big and small moments that inspired HOPE this year.

Artwork created during Heroes for HOPE 2022 with participation from attendees.

This is the time of year when we reflect on the past year and everything we’ve achieved. At HOPE Atlanta, we’re brimming with reasons to be HOPEful approaching 2023 — from client successes to stories of activism and generosity in our community. Here are some of them.

1. Our generous Heroes for HOPE sponsors and supporters, who helped us raise $500,000 to combat homelessness and hunger.
2. Our friends at Northside Church, who collected and donated 66 hams for our holiday food program.
3. These inspiring Georgia leaders — many of them our partners — whom we highlighted during Black History Month.
4. Our case managers Vinson, Gloria, and Timothy, who earned MARTA’s Customer Service Star awards.
5. This Navy veteran client, who demonstrated the power of a father’s love for his children.
6. Long-time Women’s Community Kitchen volunteer, Emily Grossman, whose dedication continued after Action Ministries joined HOPE Atlanta.
7. The team from Carter’s, which regularly volunteers to assemble food boxes, hygiene kits, and more.
8. Our client, Willie, who has a dream of opening his own restaurant after living on the streets.
9. The time UPS donated 1,500 hygiene kits to assist our street outreach efforts.
10. The bold vision of our CEO Julio, who is optimistic that we can end homelessness and hunger through innovation and collaboration.
11. Our client, Erica, who is getting her life back after receiving a housing voucher.
12. These kids from Mt. Paran School, who spent part of their summer break packing food boxes for kids and households in need.
13. Mayor Andre Dickens hosted a roundtable to discuss Atlanta's homelessness and gave us a seat at the table.
14. Henry, a retired veteran who found the support and services he needed to reach stability and focus on his health.
15. The expansion of services within our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program — and even bigger ideas are in the works.
16. Longtime volunteer Sharon Moon, who shared heartwarming memories from her time at the Women’s Community Kitchen.
17. Barbara, a HOPE Atlanta client who “rose from the ashes” after a long cycle of domestic abuse and homelessness.
18. Reginald, a retired veteran who served in Vietnam, who was able to avoid homelessness with rental and housing assistance from HOPE Atlanta.
19. Everyone who participated in Veterans Week of Service, sponsored by Montlick & Associates. We were able to assist 45 veteran clients!
20. These sweet preschoolers, who are already learning the importance of giving back.
21. The adorable nickname given to Janine, our Women’s Community Kitchen Manager, by the guests.
22. Local TikTok star Damilola Akindele, who shared our message with his audience and helped raise money for our cause.

Now, it’s your turn!

What gave you HOPE in 2022? Tell us in the comments.

There’s Still Time: Give the Gift of HOPE.

These stories of HOPE would not be possible without financial support from our community. Why not end 2022 on a high note with an act of kindness?

Now through 12/31, your tax-deductible donation will be MATCHED dollar-for-dollar (up to $75,000)!

YES, I WANT TO HELP MY NEIGHBORS IN NEED!