Our Programs

Jericho Road Urban Garden Project

In 2009, Center of Hope through its Body and Soul Health and Wellness Ministry and Youth department has established a partnership with Toledo Grows through the Toledo Botanical Garden for technical assistance, materials & supplies and hands-on help to begin and sustain the Jericho Road Youth Urban Garden project.  The Jericho Road Youth Garden was funded in part by a grant from the Kaptur Community Fund of the Toledo Community Foundation.            

Center of Hope also partners with Community Heart Health Project of the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department, Center of Hope Family Services, City in a Garden and other urban agriculture initiatives. The garden is directly behind the church and the official address is 1661 Palmwood.  The Jericho Road Youth Urban Garden has the following objectives:

• Provide access to produce or nutritionally rich foods otherwise unavailable to many families and individuals.
• Donate produce to Martin Luther King Kitchen for the Poor.
• Create or enhance access to places for physical activity.
• Allow children and their parents to eat healthier, more nutrient rich diets.
• Provide education where youth acquire agricultural skills, obtain nutrition awareness, and learn about the importance of soil and the basic need for plants to be nurtured and cared for.

In 2009, 25 children, and 15 adults have actively and regularly participated in the Jericho Road Urban Garden Project.

Dress to Impress, Clothing Distribution

In 2005, Center of Hope Family Services developed the "Dress To Impress" clothing distribution program designed to fully outfit both males and females with the clothing and accessories that will assist them in presenting a professional appearance at job interviews. In addition, “Dress to Impress” (DTI) will provide clients with dress tips, interview tips, a listing of job-training facilities.  In 2008-2009 Dress to Impress provided professional attire and employment support services to 413 Ohio Works First clients who were actively searching for employment.

Creative Village Learning Community

The Center of Hope Creative Village Learning Community provides a literacy focused model for children ages 3-5.  Literacy skills are introduced through culturally stimulating, self-esteem promoting, and community building materials.  Children are encouraged to express themselves creatively through storytelling, use of art mediums, and music.  Children receive loving, individualized care, and participate in a lot of hands on activities.  Nutritious meals and snacks are served, and children benefit from the expertise of staff members who have 25 years of experience.  The Creative Village Learning Community works in collaboration with the Lucas County Metropolitan Housing Authority, who provides the facilities.  In 2010, we hope to provide literacy focused child care services to 35 children in Lucas County.

CDF Freedom Schools