News : Harvest House open house gives ministry a chance to showcase changes

The Harvest House open house gives the ministry a chance to showcase its changes.

Calling it "The Doorway to a New Beginning," The Harvest House Ministry (formerly Harvest Valley) plans and open House to celebrate Christmas and the changes at Harvest house this year.

The open house takes place at the Harvest House at 1215 C Avenue, from 1-4 p.m. this Sunday, Dec. 5.

About Harvest House:

Harvest House Ministry Center (HHMC) is a faith-based outreach to individuals and families of Benton County and is comprised of two distinct aspects: the ministry center and the transitional living house.

The Ministry Center has helped meet the needs of nearly 1,000 families since 2003, offering free of charge the following services:

* Emergency food bank

* Household items, furniture, dishes, bedding, small appliances, etc.

* Opportunities for community service (both required & voluntary)

* Informal support system (physical, emotional & spiritual)

* Internships (hands on experience)

* Referral networking with other churches and human service agencies

The Ministry Center also coordinates two major projects in collaboration with area churches, businesses and organizations during the months of October and December:

* Winter Warmth for children of the Vinton-Shellsburg School District

* Angel Tree providing gifts for 250-300 children in Benton County

Harvest House provides transitional living for women and their pre-adolescent children who find themselves homeless, due to sudden loss of income or other difficult situations. Since opening in 2008, twenty-five women and fourteen children have resided at the house. During their stay many of the women achieve the primary goals of:

* Securing permanent housing and moving towards achieving self-sufficiency

* Establishing an expanded and stronger support system

The HHMC volunteer staff often assists residents with transportation, obtaining childcare services and employment opportunities. One-on-one help in areas such as financial planning, basic computer and general life skills is also offered to those who are interested.

When the women move to permanent housing, they may select any piece of furniture or household items that have been donated for that purpose.

The Harvest House Ministry Center is funded by private donations and operates under the 501 © (3) non-profit status of the Vinton Foursquare Church, DBA Harvest Christian Fellowship. All donations are tax deductible. Checks may be issued to Harvest House Ministry Center (HHMC) or by credit card through the web site: www.hhmcvinton.org