By Donna Campbell

In 2010, while reading the Oxford Eagle, Sherry Williams-Jenkins saw an announcement for a community discussion on homelessness in the area. From that initial meeting, a task force emerged that would change the face of homelessness in Oxford and Lafayette County. 

In the first year, three families successfully managed the rigorous four-month program and were set on a path to financial independence. According to its website, the non-profit organization has provided services to 2,983 homeless or at-risk individuals since then.

Doors of Hope Transition Ministries is dedicated to guiding homeless and at-risk families with minor children in the home toward self-reliance and stability through a holistic, individualized approach that includes life-skills training, mentoring, and supportive housing.

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, 28 percent of Mississippi’s children live in poverty, with 1 of 9 percent of those children living in families who are likely to face eviction from their homes in the near future.

“While we offer financial assistance with rent or utilities, the heart of our work is helping families learn life skills, navigate education and employment, and improve their health,” said executive director Mary Margaret Andrews.

The organization helps provide financial assistance and emergency housing to clients, but it also offers programs to teach skills for maintaining a healthy lifestyle on a budget, guidance with employment, education, and medical needs, and monthly continuing education programs for current and graduated clients.

Doors of Hope depends entirely on monetary and in-kind donations from private donors, businesses, churches, and grants from charitable organizations. It does not receive federal, state, or local funding. Andrews said financial contributions, as well as needed household items, help the families the organization supports.

Donations are used to maintain the shelter units and pay rent and utility expenses for clients. In addition, Doors of Hope supplies toiletries, cleaning supplies, paper products, school supplies, and other household items that are always on the organization’s wish list. Donations can be accepted at the office located at 924 Van Buren Ave. Oxford, MS 38655.

Items needed include toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo and conditioner, soap, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, diapers, baby wipes, strollers, trash bags, dish detergent, slow cookers, aluminum foil and plastic storage bags, kitchen utensils, bedding and towels.

Financial donations can be given to Doors of Hope Transition Ministries in the following ways:

∙Cash donations can be brought or mailed to our 924 Van Buren Ave office. Oxford, MS 38655

∙Checks can be made to Doors of Hope Transition Ministries and mailed to 924 Van Buren Ave. Oxford, MS 38655

∙Online giving is available through the website, doorsofhopeoxford.org. Memorial and honor donations are also accepted online.

∙Venmo @doorsofhope-ox

∙Paypal @doorsofhope

For more information, call 662-234-1100.