Grace Centers of Hope Kicks Off "Heating for the Homeless" Campaign

PONTIAC, MI, February 01, 2013 (Press-News.org) Grace Centers of Hope, one of Southeast Michigan's oldest and largest homeless shelters, has launched "Heating for the Homeless." The annual campaign is an effort to offset general operating costs while raising funds to provide a safe and warm sanctuary for the men, women and children who arrive at the nonprofit during the winter months.

"With heating costs on the rise nationwide and our own anticipated costs expected to near $80,000 in the winter alone, donations to 'Heating for the Homeless' can make a significant difference for Grace Centers of Hope," said Pastor Kent Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope. "If 1,000 people donate $80 each, we could cover the heating cost for the entire winter allowing us to focus our resources on life-saving programs."

Grace Centers of Hope provides a comprehensive range of programs and services to help individuals and families overcome issues of homelessness, addiction, neglect, physical abuse, poverty and spiritual emptiness. To achieve these outcomes, it incorporates personal accountability, life skills education, work-related programs and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The nonprofit organization accepts no government funding with 100 percent of its revenues generated through private support, fundraising initiatives and its four thrift stores. Last year, Grace Centers of Hope provided more than 45,000 nights of stay for men, women and children who sought help from Grace Centers of Hope, including its Emergency Shelter, One-Year Life Skills and Aftercare Programs.

Donations for "Heating for the Homeless" can be made with a credit card online at http://www.gracecentersofhope.org, or by calling 1-855-HELP-GCH.

About Grace Centers of Hope
Giving hope to the helpless since 1942, Grace Centers of Hope is considered one of the leading faith-based organizations in Southeastern Michigan, daily confronting issues of homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse and spiritual emptiness. On any given night, Grace Centers of Hope provides transitional and emergency shelter to 150-200 men, women and children, in addition to serving more than 100,000 meals each year. Grace's $5.7 million yearly budget is maintained solely through corporate and private donors, exclusive of any government assistance. To learn more about Grace Centers of Hope or to make a donation, please visit http://www.gracecentersofhope.org.