THE HOPE FOR FAMILIES CENTER MARKS A HISTORICAL MOMENT AT GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR EXPANSION PROJECT

Dateline: Vero Beach, FL, April 25 2024

Vero Beach, FL —The Hope for Families Center hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to launch its expansion project, which will double the size of the shelter and program that assists homeless families. The event drew over 70 esteemed guests and marked a significant milestone in the organization’s  32-year history. 

The Suzanne Marechal Scully Campus will be adjacent to the current Center on 4th Street. It will also be the future home of The John’s Island Foundation Emergency Family Shelter and the Joan & Al DeCrane Administration Building. John Binkley of Edlund, Dritenbas, and Binkley, PA, has worked with The Hope for Families Center in designing the expansion, which will include 20 emergency shelter rooms and nine transitional apartments. Proctor Construction will start construction of the project in late summer.

The vision for HFC’s future is the result of the steadfast determination of the 2017 Board comprising Dr. Bill Cooney, President; Sue Scully – Vice President; Bill Schmitt 2nd, VP, and Bruce Albro, Treasurer, and later joined by Chuck Cunningham, the current President, Dr. Dick Tompkins, Joe Collins, Secretary and Executive Director, Marty Mercado. Dr. Wayne Hockmeyer’s generous contribution allowed HFC to purchase the land at 617 4th Place in 2018. This donation was the first dose of hope that this dream could become a reality.

The evening’s atmosphere was filled with gratitude as Executive Director Marty Mercado and Board President Chuck Cunningham shared heartfelt optimism for the Center’s future. 

“This groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes not just the physical expansion of our center but also the expansion of hope, opportunity, and support for families in our community,” remarked Marty Mercado, Executive Director at Hope for Families Center. “We are immensely grateful for the overwhelming encouragement and funding from our supporters and the community at large, whose unwavering commitment enables us to continue making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The expansion project emphasizes The Hope for Families Center’s commitment to fostering a brighter future for homeless families by providing them with the resources and support needed to thrive. The organization is grateful for the donors and connections, which allow it to remain steadfast in its mission to create lasting impact and promote positive change within the community.

The Hope for Families Center is a shelter and program that helps families transition from homelessness to sustainable living by providing a safe, clean environment and supportive services. 

For more information about Hope for Families Center and its expansion project, please get in touch with Lindsey Kross, Development Manager, at LKross@hfcvero.org or 772-567-5537