NORFOLK, Va. - New Hope Church of God is a pillar in the Fairmont Park community in Norfolk.
“Whether it is reaching out to set up the food program or the community center to help the homeless, it is what God has called us to do," according to Dr. Calvin Durham, the church's pastor.
The church provides free meals six days a week and helps residents in the neighborhood who are struggling financially.
“We provide assistance with utilities and rent and things such as that," adds Linda Durham.
Church members also tutor young people in the neighborhood to make sure they get their high school diploma.
And the loving arms of New Hope Church reach far beyond Hampton Roads.
“We even have partnerships with churches in Jamaica, Guyana, and they actually Skype into our services.”
A focus on community outreach for 15 years at the direction of Dr. Durham.
”He’s the example to every one of us. He’s doing so much in this community and it's been lifted up because of the things that he’s done, and we’re just so proud of him," says Anthony Judge, the chaplain and elder.
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“When this COVID first started, most of the homeless didn’t have a place where they could come, so he opened the doors so they could take showers, they could have a hot meal.”
And for his tireless work finding ways to help others, we surprised the pastor with a People Taking Action award and a $300 Visa gift card from our community partner, Southern Bank, just as Sunday service was wrapping up.
“I do this because it is what God has called me to do," says Pastor Durham.
To nominate someone for a People Taking Action Award, click here.
