Vision
"To be a leader in restoring hope, rebuilding self-esteem and empowering women on their journey to self-sufficiency."
Home Start Hope is a 100 percent volunteer run organization that supports women and children in their transition from homelessness to independent living. They serve women who have experienced homelessness including veterans, women recovering from addiction and survivors of domestic violence. Providing access to brand new, essential household items free of charge in a personal shopping experience, they restore hope and self-confidence and build a community where more women can thrive.
Women choose everything they need to start over in their new home completely free of charge. It may seem like a small thing,
picking out towels or bedding, but for women who are starting over, it’s so much more than that.
Kristin Mathis
CEO and Founder Kristin Mathis started Home Start Hope as a passion project and has turned it into an organization that has helped more than 350 women and more than 250 children locally since 2010. Her vision, determination, and integrity have established a foundation for success, supported almost entirely by a board and committee of volunteers in the Rochester community. While there's a serious side to her drive for this organization in trying to ease the financial burdens of the women and children Home Start Hope supports, she also says "We are part of a happy ending... and that's fun!" It is through her hard work and leadership that we can see Home Start Hope continuing to take on new partners in the next five years and providing hope to a steady stream of families.
Client Centered
Home Start Hope is a house in the city where women select brand new kitchen, bedroom and bathroom essentials. Women choose everything they need to start over in their new home completely free of charge. It may seem like a small thing, picking out towels or bedding, but for women who are starting over, it’s so much more than that. It’s about a new beginning, a sense of ownership and sense of HOPE for a brighter future. When they feel settled at home, they can focus on their families
Two of our favorite things: restock days & getting the youth involved with Home Start Hope! Looking to get your kids involved in a meaningful way this summer break? Reach out and join us for a shopping trip or client pick up. We’d love to have them!