Ceremony Held for Jack’s House of Hope

Gwen Rummell Reporting –

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Friends of the Homeless of Tuscarawas County’s new building.

Jack’s House of Hope is an add-on to the existing homeless shelter. It honors founder Jack Ream.

Following an introduction by Matt Ritzert, serving as master of ceremonies, Reverend Joe Svancara spoke. He noted that $1.7 million has been raised for the over $4 million project.

“We also have to thank our many donors, who without their generosity, without their vision, and their Christian commitment, would not have made this possible as well. So we want to thank all of those who are past donors, current donors, and future donors who will breathe life into this building and make possible with their generosity.”

Ream then thanked everyone for attending the ceremony and gave a speech about being Good Samaritans.

“I know from 20 years of experience working with homeless people here in New Philadelphia that they need the help of their neighbors and that is all of us who live here. They need it now when we are trying to build them a new house, and especially, after we have successfully built it to help them get their lives back in order.”

The new building will have a residential wing and a support wing. The support side will have offices, a chapel, counseling, dining, and more.

Also speaking at the ceremony were Executive Director Calvin White, Joe Trepicone, Greg Kimble, and the committee. Melodie Sprowl, a sophomore from Indian Valley, won the contest for creating the logo.

Construction will begin for Jack’s House of Hope on September 1^st.