The Hope and Area Transition (HATS) envisions a healthy social and emotional community, free from violence, abuse, addictions, and homelessness.
HATS has been doing this since 1994 in Hope and the surrounding area through the delivery of services and programs aimed at supporting individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, addictions, homelessness and other social issues.
Our philosophical underpinnings begin with the inherent value and rights of all people; regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, culture or spirituality. We value people rights and choices and we meet them where they are at in their life journey.
No one knows when they will need a program or service to help them through a rough patch in their life. Our staff and agency are committed to walk alongside an individual’s life journey. We do not have the answers we provide resources, referrals, a listening and compassionate ear. We build relationships with our clients and offer guidance through difficult times.
Even though you may not be directly impacted by a social issue you may know someone who could use our service, as a community we are all indirectly impacted by social issues. Wherever you turn you see poverty, homelessness, addictions, mental health, violence and abuse, and each of us are impacted. We all have the ability to make a change in lives of others and within our community.
What you can do is get involved, find out where you can offer support, whether it is monetarily, donating clothing, blankets, or household items, volunteering or coming out and supporting local fundraising functions.
We have strengths in numbers and we can change societal views when it comes to social issues. Speak up when others are speaking negatively or stereotyping people.
Remember if we sit idly by and listen to the stigmatization of people impacted by social issues we in fact are part of the problem, use your voice and let others know that we can make a difference together.
Last year, our agency provided service to approximately 2,300 individuals and/or families in the community of Hope. As a charitable non-profit, the Society seeks community support through fundraising ventures and donations. Although all the programs are core funded by the province, core funding does not always provide the additional needs of the program.
As a member agency of the United Way of the Fraser Valley, HATS has received various grants and donations throughout the years to enhance program delivery. This year, we have received $14,000 which supports our homelessness initiatives in the community.
As United Way has kicked off their campaign season, the Hope and Area Transition Society will be hosting our third annual Chili-Cook Off on Nov. 19 from 4-6 p.m. at the Blue Moose.
Tickets are on sale through our office at 604-869-5111 and all proceeds go directly toward the United Way of the Fraser Valley campaign which in turn will support various initiatives within the community. Come out and be part of the solution in making a difference in your community.
To learn more about the agency and what we offer or how you can support the work that we do, call 604-869-5111 or visit our website www.hopetransition.org and follow us on Facebook.
Gerry Dyble.
Executive director,
Hope & Area Transition Society
