Meal Ministry

Offering free meals to the public six days a week

In 2009 the Refuge of Hope meal ministry motto was developed.  “Each meal will be served with love, compassion and respect to every man, woman or child who enters our dining room”.  We provide full course meals served in a banquet-like setting, complete with flowered centerpieces, inviting our dinner guests to relax and enjoy. 
The result has been a dramatic increase in the number of meals provided each year.  From 14,500 in 2008 to 46,331 in 2011!  Our current numbers through May 2012 again show significant growth that we will most likely serve over 55,000 meals by years end!

Hurting and hungry men, women and children from Stark and neighboring counties visit our dining room daily.  Some live well below the poverty level and some are homeless.  Many struggle with a form of mental illness.

During the meal it feels like one very large family sharing a dining experience.  Conversations and laughter fill the air and gratitude is expressed for the meal as they leave.  We strongly encourage you to tour our facility and see first-hand how Refuge of Hope is helping to make a difference in our community with meals and more!