Dozens of motorcycle riders depart from Harvest Ministries during the charity ride for Anson County Homes of Hope on April 17.
Liz O’Connell | Anson Record
Motorcycle riders cruise through Anson County as part of Homes of Hope’s fundraising event on April 17.
Liz O’Connell | Anson Record
The Anson County Homes of Hope motorcycle ride fundraises about $2,700 on April 17.
Liz O’Connell | Anson Record
WADESBORO — A sunny spring day brought together motorcycle riders from the area for a charity ride to benefit Anson County Homes of Hope.
Homes of Hope helps to address the housing needs for residents of Anson County. The organization connects those in need to affordable, emergency and rapid rehousing.
The event was originally scheduled for 2020, but due to the pandemic, organizers pushed it back until April 17. This was the first in-person fundraiser for Anson County Homes of Hope. The motorcycle ride raised about $2,700 for the organization and donations are still coming in.
The day started with riders gathering at Harvest Ministries in Wadesboro. Pastor Steve Adams led the group in a prayer. County Commissioner Robert Mims, Wadesboro Police Chief Thedis Spencer and Sheriff Landric Reid all spoke to the participants, thanking them for their participation and support of Anson County Homes of Hope.
Riders received door prizes and lunch was provided after the ride.
Since the organization’s creation in 2018, Homes of Hope have bridged about 25 individuals and families to resources, assistance, safe spaces and houses in the county.
According to the 2020 N.C. Balance of State Continuum of Care Point in Time County, 38 homeless people were living in emergency shelters in Anson County. Three of the 38 were counted as children under three years old. This count is conducted by the N.C. Coalition to End Homelessness. Kam McDonald, one of the organizers for the motorcycle ride and Anson Schools employee, said there are about 57 students in the district who are homeless.
Homes of Hope can help these homeless individuals by offering a six-month transitional housing program. The first three months of the program are free, then monthly rent increases to $50, $70, then $100. This slow increase of rent allows individuals the opportunity to save without worrying about paying house bills.
The organization recently completed a duplex off of East Wade Street. The newly renovated three bedroom apartment includes new appliances and windows. Homes of Hope is ready to move in a family into the space.
Homes of Hope also works with like-minded agencies, organizations and individuals to help seek their vision of ending hunger, poverty, domestic violence and racism. The group accepts referrals from the Wadesboro Housing Authority, the Anson County Domestic Violence Coalition, Anson County Department of Social Services, religious organization and other community partners.
For more information about Anson County Homes of Hope, call 704-668-4952.
