In 1999 a blood pressure program was instituted during God’s kitchen; identifying a need for education and guidance to the guests of this special ministry. Donna Clark RN began working with Salisbury Urban Ministries as a full time Parish Nurse when a grant was received from Quality Health Foundation in 2003 and a Health Outreach Ministry began. In 2007, the ministry became a nonprofit organization, H.O.P.E., Inc., and continued the work begun at Salisbury Urban Ministries.
Today this ministry works out of the basement of Wicomico Presbyterian church every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 am until 2 pm serving those in need of guidance through the medical “maze”, financial assistance for medications and medical supplies, Maryland state health insurance, as well as emotional and spiritual support.
With grants from QLarant , Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore , Salisbury Medical Foundation , Care First , John B Parsons Foundation , and donations from local churches and individuals we serve those in need from the Tri-County area. Collaborating with 45 different agencies in the fiscal year 2011/2012, we served 1704 individuals.
“Stories from the Basement” is a monthly series of short stories about those we have served. It is meant to share the experience of being a part of God’s Kingdom and seeing the power of His mercies.