How It Began
Hands of Hope Outreach Center was birthed in Pastor Duane Sheriff
eighteen years ago through a vision and passion for people. It began in a
small double-wide trailer, established in August of 1988 as Victory Life Food Bank.
Over the years, it expanded to larger locations and eventually served 490 families
a year. However, in 2003, due to the church fire, the food bank was faced
with either relocation or closure. Although a new facility was not yet available,
the staff's love for people prevailed over circumstances and conditions; and the
food bank remained opened by operating under some trees on the church property.
For eight weeks, during the hottest months of the year, the volunteers continued
to minister and hand out the help that was so desperately needed. Victory
Life Food Bank was then moved to the current location in downtown Durant; and as
of December 2005, 25,884 families across five Oklahoma counties have been served.
In the spring of 2006, the Hands of Hope Outreach Center opened
to encompass the expanding vision of the eldership and church. There has been
one unchanging rule throughout time that was mandated by God and it is how the name
was conceived. We pray with every person who comes through our doors for assistance.
We will hold their hands and touch all that the world would consider unlovely or
unclean because it is how Jesus Christ would have done it. We are to be the
reflection of Christ Himself in this earth. We are to instill the hope and
love that can only come from Him.
Food Bank
The food bank is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and
Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Assistance is income-based. Our food bank is supplied through Oklahoma Regional
Food Bank in Oklahoma City and through private donations. The food bank is
fully funded by the tithes and offerings of the members of Victory Life Family Worship
Center. It is predominantly operated by a volunteer staff ranging in age from
thirteen to ninety.
Clothing Bank
The clothing bank is open Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is supplied by donations with a convenient
drop box located outside. It is predominantly operated by volunteer staff varying in
age.
Benevolence
We have been successful in developing relationships with
several church and government agencies in the area. We have become familiar
with the assistance these agencies have to offer and are able to point families
in the right direction to get the help they need.
Christian Counseling
We offer free Christian counseling that is based strongly
in the Word of God for individuals and families.
Free Haircuts
The first and third Monday of every month free haircuts
are offered to our clients by professional hair stylists. Limited appointment
times are available. Hair must be washed and clean prior to the appointment
time.
Free Classes Offered To The Public
We have now taken our assistance to the next level by offering
the following classes free of charge. These classes will be offered in the
afternoons and evenings.
- Literacy (This will also include classes for people with dyslexia.)
- GED
- Basic computer skills
- Computer classes
- English as a second language
- Job Smarts (How to write a resume, fill out an application, dress for an interview,
and how to conduct yourself during an interview.)
- Personal care classes
Opportunities To Serve
There are many areas and opportunities to serve.
If you have an interest and a heart for serving in any of these areas, please call
us at (580)920-2574, visit us at 724 West Main in Durant, or
email us.