Hugs & Hope began with something simple. A hungry man on the street. A six-year-old boy who wanted to take him home and feed him. And a family who believed that no one should be unseen, unheard, or forgotten.

From that moment, this ministry grew into years of serving families across our community. We fed those who were struggling. We stood with parents who were doing their best. We offered dignity, compassion, and a reminder that every person matters.

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In 2024, everything paused when our co-founder, Paul, became ill and later passed away. Even in his final months, he continued serving our homeless neighbors because his heart never changed. His love for “the least of these” is still the heartbeat of Hugs & Hope today.

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After months of prayer and waiting for clear direction, God opened a door we did not expect. He brought us into partnership with the Rock of Ages Memorial Drive Hunger Ministry, a place already pouring out love through food, clothing, and care for the unhoused. What began as a meeting quickly felt like a homecoming. Ten years after our first meals on the streets of Atlanta, we are right back where our mission began, serving those who need it most.

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Today, Hugs & Hope is focused on feeding and supporting our homeless and unhoused neighbors. We show up with food, clothing, conversation, and care. We look people in the eyes. We learn their names. We remind them that they matter. And we work alongside the incredible team at Rock of Ages to close gaps, strengthen outreach, and bring hope wherever it’s needed.

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But we cannot do this alone. Every meal served, every piece of clothing given, every hand we hold is made possible by the generosity of people who believe in this work. The need is growing, and so is our desire to meet it. Your support helps us feed more people, expand street outreach, keep our clothes closet full, and continue serving with compassion and dignity.

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If you give, you are not just donating money or supplies. You are offering hope to someone who may not have had any today.

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We invite you to stand with us as we carry Paul’s legacy forward and continue loving people the way Jesus loves. Together, we can make sure no one is left hungry, overlooked, or alone.

 

Everyone needs a bit of help at some point. Thank you for helping us be there when they do.

 

With joy-filled hugs,

Jeri Austin

CEO/Co-Founder