Martin/St. Lucie County Rest Stops Earn High Marks Thanks to Adults with Disabilities
Rest stops along I-95 in Martin and St. Lucie Counties are earning high marks for their cleanliness. Workers with ARC of the Treasure Coast’s Advanced Environmental Services Program - deserve all the credit.
Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged of the Treasure Coast is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to assisting and supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, vocational, behavioral, and other related healthcare services.
More than a year ago, the non-profit contracted with Florida’s RESPECT program, the Central Non-profit Agency for the state that creates employment opportunities for thousands of residents who are blind or have other types of disabilities.
The ARC workers keeping these rest stops well-groomed recently received a score of 100% for cleanliness and overall functions of the facilities. That is the highest score ever awarded to this team and a thrilling accomplishment.
“ARC of the Treasure Coast is proud to be a part of the state’s RESPECT program,” said Alberto Suarez, ARC’s Director of Facilities and Fleet Operations. Saurez oversees the ARC’s Advanced Environmental Services, a division of the ARC of the Treasure Coast. “We are grateful for the opportunity to show that our team is not only capable of performing complex and essential tasks but is also raising the standard of excellence in performing those tasks.”
Currently, 30 adults in the AES Program are working at the four rest stops handling janitorial services as well as taking care of the landscaping and maintaining the grounds keeping services to a high standard for all visitors to appreciate and enjoy the top-rated Rests Stops in the Florida. ARC of the Treasure Coast encourages other businesses to consider hiring adults with disabilities who tend to thrive when given the proper training and support. ARC provides support services such as job coaching and training, resume writing, skill development, situational assessments and interview preparation.
As you can imagine, having a job empowers individuals by providing them with the opportunity to develop new skills, build confidence, and gain independence.
Congratulations to the workers and thanks for keeping the rest stops nice for the rest of us.
Banner Lake Day
The first annual Banner Lake Day was a major success! Thanks to the volunteers, vendors, and small business partners, we held a fun-filled community celebration and back to school event. During the event, local students received book bags filled with school supplies and professional hair stylists volunteered their time and skills to provide 15 girls with a free back to school hairstyle.
We also had the honor to perform the dedication of the Harold C. White Outreach Center, named after the man whose commitment and hard work have been invaluable to the Banner Lake community. These kinds of events are so important to bring us together, to meet each other’s needs, and to honor those who have made an impact. Together, we will continue making our community stronger and brighter!
“Building for Tomorrow” is the Focus of the Florida Resilience Conference in Early September
Florida’s resilience to storms, hurricanes, rising seas, energy demands, and threats to the state’s infrastructure will be the focus of the 3rdAnnual Florida Resilience Conference in Bonita Springs from September 11 to 13, 2024.
This year’s conference focus is “Building for Tomorrow.” “Florida’s unique geography makes it imperative that we gather our best leaders and strategists and learn from their research and experience about ways to increase our state’s resilience,” said David Rathke, Executive Director of Resiliency Florida. “The future of Florida to continue our economic growth and simultaneously preserve our natural treasures truly depends on our ability address these issues holistically,” said Pepper Uchino, President of the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association.
During the three day conference, sessions will be conducted on legislative policies and priorities critical to resilience efforts, vulnerability assessments, innovations and partnerships, beach nourishment projects, hurricane recovery efforts, and case studies from the field. Attendees will include members of the Legislature and legislative staff, local officials, environmental organizations, coastal engineers, tourist development councils, community associations, and citizens from across the state who are concerned about resilience issues.
The conference also includes the 67thannual meeting of the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association and the 8thannual meeting of Resiliency Florida. The FSBPA functions as a league of cities and counties on beach and coastal issues, providing information and working with stakeholders throughout Florida on issues related to beach erosion and preservation, and Resiliency Florida is the leading Florida voice on state and regional planning and adaptation for climate and extreme weather impacts.
Registration for the conference is available online through September 6 atwww.floridaresilienceconference.organd then onsite at the Hyatt Regency in Bonita Springs. For more information and the conference agenda, visit the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association atwww.floridaresilienceconference.org.
About The Florida Shore Beaches Preservation Association - FSBPA
https://floridaresilienceconference.org/
The Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association was organized in 1957 at a meeting of 37 local government and university leaders concerned about the growing problem of beach erosion that had virtually destroyed important resort beaches such as Miami Beach. They recognized that erosion was a statewide problem that couldn't be handled by individual cities and counties alone. The first acts of the newly created FSBPA were to persuade the 1957 Legislature to get the State of Florida involved in beach preservation. Two landmark bills were passed to:
- Create the State Department of Beaches and Shores.
- Establish a research wave tank at the University of Florida.
Since then, FSBPA has spearheaded virtually every important component of Florida's beach preservation program. Thanks largely to FSBPA's efforts, Florida leads the nation in beach preservation. Over 200 miles of beaches have been nourished. More projects are planned. On one hand, we function as a "league of cities and counties" on beach and coastal issues. Most coastal cities and counties are members. This gives us a respected voice on beach matters in Florida. On the other hand, FSBPA represents hundreds of private citizens concerned about beach preservation. We provide these citizens with a forum, access, and timely information. This public-private partnership is vital for preserving Florida's beaches. How FSBPA Functions:
- Providing information to the Florida Legislature and Congress on beach preservation issues and funding.
- Working with local, state, and federal agencies to promote effective beach management.
- Through publications and conferences, educating public officials and the general public on the best ways to deal with beach erosion.
FSBPA is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit entity with offices in Tallahassee.
JaMar King, a Communities Connected for Kids youth representative for a statewide advocacy organization for children and teens in foster care, has been named the 2024 Florida Youth Shine Youth of the Year.
King will be honored in October at the organization's Youth of the Year Program, at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach.
King has been an active member of the Treasure Coast chapter of Florida Youth Shine for two years and has advocated at both the state Department of Children and Families' Annual Summit and during Children's Week at the (state) Capital.
Foster Mom Not Afraid to Do the Tough Stuff
Port St. Lucie – Families are at or near their lowest when a child enters foster care. Though most parents settle into the new normal and do what they need to regain custody of their children, those early conversations can be difficult. Especially if you’re the foster parent given responsibility for that family’s child.
But for Kristal Clark, a foster mom who lives in Port St. Lucie, it’s all in a day’s work.
Clark this week was awarded Communities Connected for Kids’ highest honor – the Going the Extra Mile – or GEM – Award for her partnership in working with the biological families of the children in her home. Clark won the award in the Topaz Category, which recognizes local foster parents for their contributions.
“There was a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) notice for one of our dads,” said Michelle Kessler, a dependency case manager who nominated Clark for the award. “Kristal was aware she did not have to transport the child to visit with the mom, but she did anyway.”
She also facilitates virtual visits with “dad,” keeping the visit going if the child starts getting fussy by tending to the child and bringing him back on camera if needed to ensure the father has ample time to visit with his child.
“The mother has told me several times that she is so grateful for her child to have a foster parent like Krystal Clark,” Kessler said.
Clark was recognized with a personal phone call from CEO Carol Deloach, a plaque and a gift card.
Do you know a local caregiver who goes above and beyond and should be recognized? Let us know by submitting a nomination on the cckids.net site. Interested in becoming a licensed foster parent? Call (772) 873-7800 and ask for Jerra to get started. You can also find more information about CCKids at cckids.net.
STUART, FL - The Council on Aging Martin County is celebrating 50 successful years and getting fired up for the future at their Pep Rally Gala taking place November 9.
The Francis Langford Theater at the Kane Center will be the scene of fun food, fast music, and high energy as the Council on Aging celebrates its 50th anniversary in grand style from 6 to 10 pm. For dinner, guests will sip spirited signature drinks as they enjoy gourmet indulgences dreamed up by The Chef’s Table. The entertainment for the night features a DJ and Live Band Fusion. From cheerleaders performing mesmerizing stunt work to a smorgasbord of candies for dessert, everything about the Pep Rally Gala will be unique and entertaining.
“We’re reinventing the Gala experience and are excited to introduce a refreshed and energetic Council on Aging as we round out 50 years and open the door to the future,” said Council on Aging Martin’s President and CEO Karen Ripper. “The pep rally theme encourages our community to show support and get involved in making sure we have the services that families will need as older loved ones reach out for help.”
To make the event more exciting, gala organizers are offering new ways to sponsor and attend. In addition to signature level sponsorships, donors can choose the Mascot level at $500. An easy donation at the Mascot level brings with it two tickets and allows organizations to show the community their ongoing support for the cause. But the real fun begins when mascots form teams and compete for bragging rights as they work to beat out the competition in fundraising for the Council on Aging’s programs and services. It’s a way to “get rowdy with us,” organizers said.
Individual tickets are also available at $175, and groups of ten can reserve a seated lounge space within the event for $1600.
Tickets, mascot and team sponsorships, and more details are available at coamartin.org/PepRallyGala.
“While we hope everyone will come for the fun,” Ripper said, “we also have a serious purpose. People can sometimes struggle for long periods of time with challenges related to the health of loved ones, their need for socialization, or simply getting a hot meal each day. We want the community to know that the Council on Aging Martin is the community’s hub for senior resources. Get to know us and let us help.”
Find out more about the programs of the Council on Aging Martin County at www.coamartin.org.
About the Council on Aging Martin County
The Council on Aging Martin County is the community’s hub for senior resources and the county’s Lead Agency on Aging. Founded in 1974, the organization offers expertise, programming and support for older adults and their families to help seniors maintain lives of quality and purpose. Services include Day Primary Care Center, Memory Enhancement Center, Adult Day Club, Meals on Wheels, care management, caregiver support, and a robust offering of educational, cultural, fitness and wellness programs.
The Kane Center located at 900 SE Salerno Road in Stuart is the Council on Aging Martin County’s headquarters and is also an event venue available to the public. It serves as a special needs hurricane shelter when necessary. The Council on Aging Martin County also operates senior outreach facilities in Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, East Stuart and Indiantown. A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Council on Aging receives funding from state and federal agencies and relies on philanthropic support from the community, including other agencies, private foundations and individual donors. For more information, visit www.coamartin.org.
The 2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars Line-Up Announced for the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition September 21 Event
Stuart, FL - Competition among the2024 Dancing with the Martin Stars contestants is hotter than the weather. Nine professional dancers are teaching their volunteer partners the intricate steps of the waltz, cha-cha, foxtrot and tango in preparation for the big showdown on Saturday, September 21.
Dancing with the Martin Stars is the popular signature event of the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition. Held annually at the Lyric Theatre in Stuart, this year’s competition has already sold out.
“We’re so grateful to all of our dancers, sponsors and supporters,” Martin County Healthy Start Coalition CEO Samantha Suffich said. “The funds we raise through this fun event go directly to our mission of ensuring that in Martin County, every baby is born healthy, every mother is supported, and every father is involved.”
Because of the huge number of people who want to attend the competition, Martin County Healthy Start Coalition has added a Livestream Watch Party. Guests will be able to see the entire competition livestreamed into the Ross Hall at the Pittenger Center on the campus of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Stuart. Tickets to the Watch Party, which include food and a drink ticket, are available at https://www.mchealthystart.org/dancing-with-the-martin-stars/2024-stars-dancers/. Space is limited.
This year’s Martin Stars lineup includes Christian Anderson, dancing with local professional Daisy Krakowiak-Wiebe; Casey Caplan, with Brian Spector; Lorna Day, with Angel R. Tamayo III; Matthew Durbin, with Emily Matos; Jonathan Garich, with Tanya Chaves; Stephanie Martinez, with Michael Chaves; April Milner, with Eliseo Ruiz; Matthew Right, with Eva B. Velez and directed by Marianella Tobar; and Sue Whittington, with Jang Don.
For months the dancers have been learning their steps and choosing fabulous costumes. That’s only part of the challenge, however. They have also been raising funds with a variety of mini events like dinners, wine tastings, and auctions to boost their fundraising totals.
The goal for this year’s event is $280,000. “The dancers have just blown us away with their passion and enthusiasm,” Suffich said. “We truly believe that they’re going to reach the goal and exceed it.”
For more information, visit https://www.mchealthystart.org/dancing-with-the-martin-stars/2024-stars-dancers/.
About Martin County Healthy Start Coalition
Martin County Healthy Start is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that every baby is born healthy. It provides educational and health services to pregnant women, new mothers and their families at no cost, particularly expectant mothers who are at risk for late or no prenatal care.
Part of a statewide coalition, Healthy Start connects pregnant women and young mothers with essential services including prenatal care, home visitations by a nurse or social worker, breastfeeding support, parenting education, car seat and sleeping safety, a free diaper pantry, and access to other community partner agencies through the Betty Moore Prenatal Outreach Center. The David Cardno Fatherhood Initiative, also part of the Martin County Healthy Start Coalition, helps fathers to become more involved in parenting and offers legal assistance to fathers who are separated from their children.
The programs of Martin County Healthy Start Coalition are voluntary and available to all Florida residents at no cost.
For more information about Martin County Healthy Start Coalition and its ongoing programs, visit www.mchealthystart.org, call 772-463-2888 or follow the organization on Facebook.
“Backpack Fairy” Project Helps Hibiscus Youth
Return to School Prepared
Treasure Coast – For the past 18 years, a heartwarming tradition has quietly shaped the lives of local youth in our community. Known as the "Backpack Fairy" Project, this initiative—born from the compassion of local high school students—has grown into a powerful symbol of unity and care. Each year, this project ensures that the youth living at Hibiscus Children’s Village start the school year prepared, confident, and with the tools they need to succeed.
The story of the "Backpack Fairy" began in 2006 when a group of local high school students decided to collect and fill backpacks with essential school supplies for the teens at Hibiscus. What started as a simple act of kindness has blossomed into an annual tradition that continues to thrive. As one group of students graduate, the next students step in ready to carry on the mission.
High school students Isabela (Isa) Argote and Carrie Jane (CJ) Fykes are this year’s Backpack Fairies! Isa and CJ led another successful effort this year with funds raised to purchase 40 backpacks, each filled with school supplies tailored for middle and high school students. Alongside these backpacks, 40 lunch bags were also provided, all delivered to the Hibiscus Village. For many Hibiscus youth, this is the first time they have owned a brand-new backpack or felt fully prepared for the school year ahead. The teens, who come from across the Treasure Coast, have been placed in Hibiscus’ care due to circ*mstances of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. At Hibiscus, they receive education, career training, professional mental health counseling and trauma-informed care to help them heal and thrive.
The "Backpack Fairy" Project is more than just a donation drive; it is a beacon of hope, driven by teens who understand the challenges their peers face and are determined to help them overcome these obstacles. Their efforts have made a tangible difference, helping hundreds of teens step into the new school year with dignity and the belief that they can succeed.
As we celebrate the success of this year’s "Backpack Fairy" Project, we also look ahead with anticipation to next year. The baton will be passed once again, and a new group of students will rise to the challenge, continuing this remarkable legacy of compassion and community spirit.
For more information about Hibiscus Children’s Center and how you can get involved, please visit HibiscusChildrensCenter.org.
A winning combination to help shelter animals: Cats and Wine
PALM CITY, Fla. — For those who love both cats and wine, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is planning the perfect event: the seventh annual Kitty Catalina Wine Mixer. It’s happening from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, at the Palm City shelter’s Memorial Garden, 4100 SW Leighton Farm Avenue.
Kitty Catalina is proudly presented by Sherry Dunn, animal rescue advocate and international best-selling author.
The adoption fee will be waived during the event for felines over one year old, thanks to presenting sponsor Sherry Dunn, animal rescue advocate and international best-selling author.
Volunteers Tonya Roberts, Lynn Fischer and Pam Brunelle
Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with friends and sample a variety of wines from the following Florida Vineyards: Keel and Curley Winery, Florida Orange Groves Winery, Secret Gardens Winery & Farm, and San Sebastian Winery. There will also be light bites provided by Chef Amy from Heritage Kitchen at Secret Gardens, raffle baskets and of course, the stars of the evening, cats and kittens.
Guests have the opportunity to stroll the humane society’s garden before viewing the adoptable cats in the shelter.
The pre-registration event cost is $30 per person,which includes admission and one free raffle ticket,with all proceeds benefiting the humane society’s shelter animals. Attendees must be 21 or older. The link to buy tickets ishstc1.org/post/Kitty-Catalina-Wine-Mixer. At the door, the cost is $40. Attendance is limited to 75 people.
The adoption fee will be waived during the event for felines over one year old.
Additional sponsorship support is generously providedby TC Palm and Seacoast Bank. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Development Manager Ashton Standish at 772-600-3216 orAstandish@hstc1.org.
For more information, contactAlyssa Bean, community events specialist, at 772-600-3215, orEvents@hstc1.org.
About the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast –The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) is a no-kill animal welfare organization located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City, FL. Since 1955, it has been the leading advocate for animal protection and well-being in the Martin County area. A 501(c)3 private, nonprofit organization, the HSTC is independent and locally operated and relies on donations to support its programs and services. Follow the HSTC on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/humanesocietyTCand Twitter athttps://www.twitter.com/hstc1. For more information, visithttps://www.hstc1.orgor call (772) 223-8822.
Where: Sailfish Point
What: A co*cktail Event
Why: To Benefit Molly’s House
When: Thursday, November 14th, 2024; 5:30-7:30pm
Who: You and your friends
How much: $175/ticket
Martin County PAL’s Jeep Riddle Run 2024 – An Adventure with a Purpose
Calling all Jeep enthusiasts and adventure seekers! Martin County Police Athletic League is excited to announce our highly anticipated Jeep Riddle Run 2024, taking place on Saturday, September 21st, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This thrilling event will lead participants on a 9-stop scavenger-style adventure through scenic Martin County, all while supporting a cause close to our hearts—the development of our Youth Mobile Training Unit.
Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep owner or just looking for a day of excitement, the Jeep Riddle Run offers something for everyone. Participants will embark on an engaging journey across paved roads, solving riddles and completing challenges at various destinations. This event is not just about fun—it’s about community. All proceeds from the Jeep Riddle Run will directly benefit Martin County PAL’s programs, specifically our Youth Mobile Training Unit, which helps us provide valuable resources and opportunities for the young people in our area.
Event Details:
• Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
• Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Why Participate?
Aside from the opportunity to experience Martin County in a whole new way, participants will have the chance to win trophies and prizes in multiple categories. The event promises a day filled with camaraderie, adventure, and friendly competition. Whether you’re driving solo or bringing along a team, the Jeep Riddle Run is a fantastic way to explore, connect, and give back to the community.
How to Get Involved:
Registration is now open, and we encourage everyone to secure their spot as soon as possible. Space is limited, and this event is expected to fill up quickly. To register or learn more, visit www.martincountypal.org or scan the QR code on our flyer. For more information, contact Martin County PAL at info@martincountypal.org. We look forward to seeing you there!
Kiwanis Club of Stuart Shines with Worldwide Award
STUART, FL – The Kiwanis Club of Stuart has received international recognition of Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn, reaching an impressive milestone in its mission to improve the lives of children. The park is a long-standing community service project in downtown Stuart.
In early March, the club was selected as one of the top 20 finalists in the Kiwanis International Signature Project Contest, a competition that highlights exemplary work carried out by Kiwanis Clubs worldwide. The Stuart club was later notified of its advancement to the top 10 finalists.
Accepting the Silver Award for the Kiwanis Club of Stuart were, from left, Secretary Bob Burson, Florida Division Governor Prairy Rhiel, President Virginia Hill, and Board Member Branden Baird. Mr. Burson, who spearheaded the fundraising efforts for the club’s largest build project to date.
A delegation consisting of President Virginia Hill, Secretary Bob Burson, Board Member Branden Baird, and Florida District Governor Prairy Rhiel represented the club at the Kiwanis International Convention held July 4 in Denver. At the convention, the Kiwanis Club of Stuart made its mark by winning the second place Silver Award.
"The four of us were incredibly humbled and honored to accept on behalf of all Kiwanians who have worked on this park over the last 35 years to make it what it is today," said President Virginia Hill. She emphasizes this was a collaborative effort that has not only included club members but also highlighted the vital partnership with the City of Stuart and the invaluable contributions of community partners and volunteers.
Virginia Hill, President, Kiwanis Club of Stuart, addresses the Stuart City Commission regarding the Club's Silver Award and recognizes the city's support of the Kiwanis Park at Woodlawn.
This prestigious contest attracted nearly 600 entries from over 8,000 Kiwanis clubs located in more than 90 countries, all dedicated to improving the lives of children.
To qualify for the finals, clubs had to showcase projects that have a substantial impact on their communities and demonstrate sustainability, enhance Kiwanis' image and reinforce membership and community partnerships.
“For the past 35 years, our club has transformed the Kiwanis Park into a cherished community asset,” said President Hill. “The project took root in 1988 in response to a vision for a dedicated recreational space. The club initiated a partnership with the city, leading to groundbreaking ceremonies in 1990.”
Over the decades, the park has witnessed expansive growth and enhancements. Major additions, including new pavilions, an accessible playground, and the recently inaugurated "Destination Playground," have drawn residents and visitors alike. While the park thrives, the club is committed to ongoing improvements. Future plans include adding benches, accessible ground cover under the swings, and special reading and art areas.
The club remains open to new members, inviting those interested in making a difference to join their gatherings held every first and third Tuesday at Manero's Restaurant. For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Stuart and its numerous projects, visit their website at KiwanisClubofStuart.org.
Time to Apply for Live Your Dream Awards
By Jackie Holfelder
Since 1972, Soroptimist International’s Live Your Dream Awards program has been helping women who are working to better their lives through additional schooling and skills training.
The financial support they receive often makes the difference in allowing them to continue with the education that is so precious to them.
This spring, Soroptimist International of Stuart (SIS) was able to present three women with 2024 awards at their Awards Dinner in May.
On August 15, the application portal for the 2024 Live Your Dream Awards opened and the enrollment process – which is completely online – couldn’t be simpler.
The parameters for the Live Your Dream award specify that the recipient must be a primary breadwinner for themself and their dependents, be attending an undergraduate degree program or a vocational skills training program, and have a financial need.
Photo provided by Soroptimist of Stuart.2024 Award winners.
Recent winners have used their monetary awards at local schools such as IRSC and Keiser University to pursue degrees and careers in nursing, digital media, health care management, and social work, among other fields.
Eligible applicantscan submit theirapplication between August 15 - November 15.
Ultimately, aLive Your Dream Awardsfinalist has the potentialreceive up to $16,000 to help offset tuition costs, purchase books, get transportation, or find reliable childcare so she can worry less about how to pay her bills and focus on reaching her dreams.
For more information or to apply for a Live Your Dream Award online, visitwww.soroptimistofstuart.org.
House of Hope Forges New Partnership with Foxwynd Foundation
STUART, Fla. – When the House of Hope staff learned about the mission of the Foxwynd Foundation, newly founded in 2024, they knew it could be the beginning of a perfect partnership.
The Foxwynd Foundation is based in Pennsylvania, but dedicated members of the Bentley family that began the foundation are using funds to create “a catalyst for transformational change” all across the country.
The Foxwynd Foundation describes its mission as being “a lifeline for communities in need by enhancing access to key pillars of human dignity and potential such as healthcare, housing, and sustainable environmental initiatives.”
House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri realized immediately how closely that resembles the House of Hope mission to empower residents to overcome hunger and hardship.
“Like the Foxwynd Foundation, we put huge value on respecting the dignity of the people we serve,” he said. “The emphasis on sustainable environmental initiatives also fits with our efforts throughout our organization, but especially at the Growing Hope Farm, to use natural resources wisely and be good stewards of the environment. In fact, our efforts won an Environmental Stewardship Award just this year from Keep Martin Beautiful.”
The Foxwynd Foundation DAF funded the Foxwynd Foundation's generous donation to the House of Hope. Half of the funds received will help House of Hope procure perishable items for its pantries and food bank partners. “Perishable items aren’t typically donated and have a short shelf life,” Ranieri said, “but we know that foods like milk, butter, eggs, chicken, turkey and meats are important parts of the well-rounded healthy diet that we try to provide for our clients.”
The other half of the grant will be used to support the operations of the Growing Hope production farm in Palm City, where greenhouses, orchards, and a packing house enable House of Hope to grow fresh produce for its Client Choice pantries and food bank partners. At peak production, the farm is now producing well over 1,500 packages of fresh produce weekly.
“We’re very grateful to the Foxwynd Foundation for their confidence in us,” Ranieri said. “While House of Hope is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, we continue to grow and find new ways to help our clients and the community.”
To learn more about House of Hope or to make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
About House of Hope
Founded in 1984, House of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. House of Hope touches the lives of more than 21,000 people each month, helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance, as well as longer-term case management services that help build life skills for a more self-sufficient future.
The organization has service centers in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach, with thrift stores in Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Indiantown. House of Hope’s Centers for Enrichment at Golden Gate in Stuart, in Jensen Beach, and at KinDoo Family Center in Indiantown offer free programs, technology, and workshops designed to enhance life skills, earning potential, health, and overall well-being.
House of Hope also operates the Growing Hope Farm in Palm City and several nutrition gardens that provide sustainable sources of fresh produce for clients as well as nutrition education and vocational opportunities to the community. For more information, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
