43
Life Spot will offer emotional support to struggling people
By LINDA M. LINONIS
GREENFORD
Big Reach Center of Hope originated in 2004 as a response to a need for school supplies. With the creation of The Life Spot, another need will be met.
Scott Lewis, founder and director of Big Reach Center of Hope, said he and other staff members began to realize that families were seeking “more than a bag of groceries.”
A survey of families who participate in Big Reach programs revealed a desire for “prayer, spiritual and emotional guidance,” Lewis said.
He said though Big Reach meets tangible, practical needs of participating families, it also seeks to help people spiritually.
“We found people wanted compassion, understanding, love and support,” he said.
“When Big Reach started, no one was doing back-to-school giveaways. We saw a need there,” Lewis recalled. “Now we’re seeing that people want to talk ... and get help with problems.
“We wanted to create an environment for that. We have always treated people with dignity and respect. This is another part of the vision and a step of faith,” Lewis said. “And we may find out other needs.”
Though clothing was being distributed, Lewis said staff found the need had lessened.
The clothing area will be downsized at the Big Reach Center of Hope, 11767 Lisbon Road, Lewis said.
The center will still accept clothing. It will use it for emergency situations and disbursement through its street teams that visit target areas.
Lewis said clothing distribution will conclude at the end of this month.
Construction will begin in May to remodel the clothing area.
That part of the center will feature a coffee shop with free coffee and doughnuts during distribution times, resource area and comfortable seating.
“It will be a place families can talk to volunteers,” Lewis said.
He explained “Life team volunteers will be trained to engage families, build relationships and offer resources and encouragement.”
Volunteers will be able to help families “deal with issues” by providing information on appropriate agencies.
In the resource areas, Valley social service agencies will be invited to set up displays to explain services and provide information.
A classroom will be turned into a designated children’s area, Kids Spot, where youngsters can play, read books or watch videos. Lewis said the children’s area will serve two purposes. It will provide a place for children to spend time while parents speak with volunteers.
During food distribution, children will be directed there instead of waiting in the hallway.
Lewis anticipated the cost at about $10,000.
He said The Life Spot’s projected opening would be in June.
“We want to create a nice, comfortable area,” he said.
“It’s another way to build trust and show that every life matters.