Hope Stories: Recent Episodes
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Hope Stories is a Hope Mission podcast where we take you into the heart of the hurting and hungry in Edmonton.
More women are seeking shelter at Hope Mission than ever before.
Five years ago, one in four people accessing shelter were women. Today, it's one in three. And daily shelter occupancy for women has doubled in just three years.
In this special summer episode of Hope Stories, you'll hear Michelle's journey from the Karis Centre to her own home, where she's rebuilding her life.
You'll also hear a preview of an earlier episode that explores why women's homelessness is often less visible—and why the need has reached a breaking point. To learn more, listen to “Rising Demand for Women’s Shelter” on Apple or Spotify—or click here to read the story.
Plus, we look ahead to upcoming episodes this fall, including stories about Hope Mission's next emergency shelter and the landlords helping more people find a place to call home.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
For some youth, finding work feels intimidating or out of reach.
Hope Mission’s food truck gives youth a first job alongside ongoing mentorship.
In this episode, Dawson Summerfield, 17, shares how working has shifted his perspective and built his confidence. Director of preventative programs Jared Jorstad and food truck team lead Oyin Awolusi explain how the food truck builds on years of relationships with youth and prepares them to pursue their goals.
Plus, you’ll get their insider recommendations on which gourmet grilled cheese sandwich is the tastiest option on the food truck’s menu.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
A new platform is helping Hope Mission staff coordinate the right care at the right time by connecting information across its growing continuum of services.
Hope Mission's innovation hub developed Rest, a new platform that reduces administrative tasks, helps staff build on previous interactions, and creates more time for direct support.
In this episode, innovation hub manager Chad Verity and senior director Tim Pasma explain why Hope Mission built its own platform, how it helps prevent people from falling through the cracks, and what it could mean for the future of homelessness services.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
What happens when someone is well enough to leave hospital, but still needs support and has nowhere else to recover?
That question led to the creation of Hope Mission’s health shelter.
In this episode, director of health services Beth Klingenberg and health shelter coordinator Valerie Recamadas discuss the gap between hospital care and independent living, and how the health shelter helps people experiencing homelessness continue recovering after discharge.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Communities in British Columbia are facing growing demand for street-level support, transportation, and connections to care.
Hope Mission's rescue van teams in Victoria and Metro Vancouver provide transportation, wellness checks, bag lunches, and connections to shelter, housing, addiction recovery, and mental health services.
In this episode, director of recovery and women's programs Minyoung Choi and Victoria rescue van manager Steven Scott explain why Hope Mission expanded into B.C., how the rescue van model works, and how relationship-based outreach helps connect people to longer-term support.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Business owners are noticing cleaner streets in Chinatown. The community revitalization team recently narrowed the focus of its neighbourhood cleanup efforts, so sidewalks near the two largest shelters are getting more frequent pressure washing.
In this episode, Kat Luu with the Edmonton Chinatown BIA and Hope Mission’s Thomas Ogigbah share how changing the team’s approach to pressure washing is helping preserve Edmonton’s historic Chinatown district and supporting the health of community members and staff.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Ethan Quon never thought he’d work at a homeless shelter. Today, he helps respond to medical emergencies as part of Hope Mission’s 24/7 rapid response team after graduating from the Christian Training Institute (CTI).
In this episode, Ethan shares how an overdose response during a field placement taught him valuable lessons about mental health self-care and inspired him to pursue a career in emergency response.
To learn more about CTI, go to hopemission.com/cti.
For people trying to access supports, navigating a complex and constantly changing system can be difficult—and sometimes they end up in the emergency room looking for help.
Health navigators embedded in the Royal Alexandra Hospital connect community members with shelter, housing, and other supports once they no longer need medical care.
In this episode, director of health services Beth Klingenberg and manager of community initiatives and partnerships Thomas Ogigbah explain how the health navigator program works and how a well-connected navigator can be the difference between a missed connection and a warm handoff.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Transitional housing bridges the gap between emergency shelter and long-term housing or recovery. Located in historic Immigration Hall, it provides a stable, supportive environment for up to 52 people at a time—creating space to rebuild daily routines, strengthen independence, and prepare for what comes next.
In this episode, Beth Klingenberg, director of health services, and Ryan Meester, transitional housing supervisor, explain how transitional housing works and how it builds confidence and community for people exiting homelessness.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
More women are turning to shelter than ever before. Hope Mission’s daily shelter occupancy for women has doubled in three years.
In this episode, Minyoung Choi, director of recovery and women’s programs, and Meron Kasahun, manager of women’s programs and aftercare services, investigate what’s behind the increase and explain how full-service women’s-only shelters like the Karis Centre help women move from the streets to stability.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
When Hope Mission began operating an emergency shelter in Red Deer, it included an on-site social worker from day one. Janea Dressler connects shelter guests to the right supports and helps them navigate systems that can otherwise slow progress.
In this episode, Adina McKinnon, manager of community initiatives and partnerships, and Janea share how the social worker role meets a critical need for vulnerable people trying to navigate complex systems.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Hope Mission’s emergency shelter in Red Deer is now open. On April 1, guests were greeted with a hot meal, new shelter beds, and a blend of new and continuing wraparound supports. In this episode, leaders Ade Adeoye and Adina McKinnon explain how the transition went on day one and what the community can expect to see in Red Deer going forward.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs and to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Hope Mission begins operating a 24/7 emergency shelter in Red Deer as of April 1. Ade Adeoye, director of emergency care and housing, explains how the shelter, meals, health services, housing, and other wraparound supports will provide continuity as well as a fresh start.
To learn more about Hope Mission or to donate, go to hopemission.com.
HopeHealth is filling a critical gap in care by adding three nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioner Linda Wright and director of health services Beth Klingenberg explain how integrating advanced clinical practice with relational care bridges gaps and improves outcomes for clients.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs or to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Hope Mission’s addiction recovery programs have received renewed three-year accreditation from CARF International. Minyoung Choi, director of recovery and women’s programs, explains how accreditation affirms and strengthens systems and outcomes for both the men’s and women’s recovery programs.
To learn more about Hope Mission’s programs or to donate, go to hopemission.com.
Today is our No Child Hungry Radiothon - and all donations are being matched! Call 1-855-836-4673 or give online at hopemission.com to feed hurting and hungry kids in Alberta. And make sure you tune in to this special episode to hear Tim and Jared talk about the impact that a meal can have on the life of a child.
On today's episode, Kevin and Tim talk about Hope Mission's Diversion Housing Program which is exponentially increasing the number of people who quickly get off the street and into housing.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people who are hurting and hungry. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
In this episode, Kevin sits down with Beth, the Senior Manager of Health Services at Hope Mission, for a real and honest conversation about what it’s like to care for Edmonton’s most vulnerable. Beth shares stories from the frontlines—moments of heartbreak, hope, and everything in between. From providing emergency care to walking alongside people on their healing journey, she gives us a glimpse into the impact of compassionate healthcare. It’s a conversation about humanity, resilience, and the power of showing up for those who need it most.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people who are hurting and hungry. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Kate's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Kate. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Colin's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Colin. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
Kevin Wiebe sits down with Jared Jorstad (Manager of Preventative Programs) to discuss the growing number of kids in Alberta going hungry and what Hope Mission is doing to provide meals and life-changing programs to vulnerable kids, youth, and families.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to Alberta kids who are hurting and hungry. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Brian's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Brian. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Roxane's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Roxane. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On this special episode, Kevin Wiebe interviews Tim Pasma (Director of Programs, Homelessness), shedding light on the urgency of Edmonton’s homelessness crisis and what Hope Mission is doing to help. They discuss real-life stories from the front lines, the complexities of serving vulnerable populations, and the need for community support now more than ever before.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people who are hurting and hungry. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Tyson's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Tyson. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Issac's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Issac. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Milton's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Milton. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Francisco's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Francisco. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Timothy's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Timothy. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Rachel's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Rachel. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Trevor's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Trevor. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Sami's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Sami. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Tamara's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Tamara. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Peter's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Peter. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Kara's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Kara. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Danielle's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Danielle. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Chris's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Chris. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Brittanie's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Brittanie. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Joshua's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Joshua. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Lindsey's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Lindsey. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Amanda's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Amanda. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Lorne's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Lorne. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Shelley's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Shelley. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Jamal's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Jamal. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Sadie's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Sadie. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Caitlin's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Caitlin. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Colin's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Colin. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Monica's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Monica. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Ryan's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Ryan. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Brian's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Brian. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Stella's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Stella. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Randy's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Randy. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Shawn's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Shawn. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Oscar's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Oscar. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Tony's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Tony. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear David's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like David. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Will's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Will. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Jake's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Jake. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Dyane's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Dyane. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Deborah's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Deborah. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Darren's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Darren. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Tim's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Tim. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Nikki's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Nikki. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Samuel's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Samuel. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Joyce's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Joyce. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Pauline's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Pauline. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Dominique's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Dominique. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Martin's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Martin. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Jill's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Jill. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Nathan's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Nathan. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Chelsea's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Chelsea. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Adam's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Adam. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Ryan's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Ryan. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Corey's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Corey. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
On today's Hope Mission Minute, you'll hear Sarah's story.
$27 a month provides 10 meals and life changing care to people like Sarah. Make a difference today by donating at hopemission.com.
Hope begins with a meal. As you look around at the tremendous need, it can be difficult to remain hopeful. But in this episode, you’ll hear Michael’s story – a powerful reminder of the life-change that happens through your generosity and compassion.
“A meal can lead to something incredible,” says Michael. “You can't put a gauge on how incredible it is to have a second chance at life.”
Just $2.70 gives a hot meal to someone in need this Thanksgiving: hopemission.com/donate.
More people are seeking shelter at Hope Mission this summer than ever before. And in the face of such unprecedented need, you might be wondering, “Is there hope?”
In this episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear the inspiring story of how a pregnant refugee found hope through your generosity. And you’ll find out why although the need today is greater than ever, it is not the end of the story.
Give hope today: www.hopemission.com/donate.
As the cost of living continues to increases, Alberta’s already vulnerable families are struggling more than ever to pay the bills, put food on the table, and make ends meet. In fact, one in five Alberta children are living in food insecure households.
“We know what hunger is,” says Leroy, a single dad who receives food support through Hope Mission. “It may seem like a drop in the bucket to most people – what you drop off. But the truth is, when you’re down and out and you don’t have much, it feels good that somebody’s there for me. Not only me, but my boys, especially. This place offers hope.”
In this episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear several stories about the growing need of childhood hunger in our community and how you can help families like Leroy’s right now.
Provide meals and care for hungry children today at hopemission.com/radiothon.
What inspired your gift? Let us know at hopestories@hopemission.com.
Less than a year ago, Jacinta was homeless, hungry, and struggling with addiction. Now she’s eight months along on her recovery journey and eager to share the transformation she’s experienced with others.
You’ll hear Jacinta share how she’s learning to deal with triggers and past resentments, where she finds the strength to go on, and what she’s looking forward to next.
Your generosity helps people like Jacinta experience life-change. Give the gift of hope this Easter at hopemission.com.
Sheldon’s addiction took his home, his job, and even his desire to live. But after the 24/7 Rescue Van brought him to Hope Mission, Sheldon’s life went in a completely different direction.
Sheldon enrolled in Breakout, Hope Mission’s year-long addiction recovery program for men, and is now nearly six months in. In this episode, you’ll hear how Sheldon discovered that he is needed, wanted, and loved, and how he looks forward to giving back by helping others in their own recovery.
Just $2.70 provides a special holiday dinner to a neighbour in need. Give the gift of hope this Easter: www.hopemission.com/donate.
A year ago, an alcohol addiction cost Holly her home, her job, and her relationships with her kids. But now, she’s nearly 10 months sober in her journey of recovery.
In this episode, you’ll hear Holly share how her family’s history of alcoholism and her childhood experiences of pain and humiliation pushed her to drinking, and how the gift of community and the grace of God give her the strength to deal with the pain of her past and chart a hopeful future.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
There is an increasing number of people living out in the cold. The Hope Mission Rescue Van reaches out to vulnerable neighbours across Edmonton and offers food, life-changing care, and support.
In this episode, you’ll hear how Rick went from lying frozen in the snow behind a dumpster to receiving food, shelter, and warm clothes. You’ll hear how Terry’s feet were spared amputation because Hope Mission staff found him before his severe frostbite got any worse. And you’ll hear how one man, freezing and alone at a bus stop, will never forget the night the rescue van offered him a ride.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
One year ago, Michael was living on the street, with no job and no hope. Today, he’s seven months sober. And as it so often does, it all began with a meal.
In this special episode of Hope Stories, you’ll hear Michael’s remarkable story of transformation, from growing up with the scars of his parents’ alcohol use, struggling with his own addictions as an adult, and planning a suicide attempt that was foiled when his pen died; to finding a second chance at life through recovery, community, and faith.
“If it wasn’t for Hope Mission, I’d either be dead or I’d still be on the street outside,” says Michael. “A meal can lead to something incredible. That’s where it started for me. And you can’t put a price tag on that.”
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
Brian was found lying in a snowbank after being beaten and robbed on Boxing Day. As he recovers from severe frostbite, Brian offers his perspective on staying in a Hope Mission shelter and shares his gratitude for people like you.
And you’ll learn the significance of being recognized and called by your name when you’re feeling marginalized and all alone.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
Oilers’ captain Connor McDavid explains why the Hope Mission Family Christmas Dinner is special to him. And one of our guests shares how simply being recognized at a Christmas dinner means more than you’d ever know.
Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
With the weather turning cold, Hope Mission is providing emergency shelter to more people than ever. Hear Mike’s story of how a meal was his first step to recovery. Tim Pasma, manager of homeless programs, talks about doubling shelter capacity this winter.Questions and comments: hopestories@hopemission.com. Become a monthly donor: www.hopemission.com/heartsofhope.
Learn more about Hope Mission's 24/7 Rescue Van on today's episode as we continue to go behind the scenes during some of the coldest days from this winter. If you would like to provide shelter and meals for those in need all year long, visit www.hopemission.com and look for our Hearts of Hope Monthly Giving Program. Also be sure to leave a rating and review if you enjoyed today's episode of Hope Stories.
This winter, temperatures dropped dangerously low. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our 24/7 Rescue Van during this year's cold snap. Visit www.hopemission.com to learn more about Hope Mission and how you can join our Hearts of Hope Monthly Giving Program. Your monthly gift will provide life-changing meals, care, and shelter to the hurting and hungry.
On today's episode, Susan shares her story of healing and hope and how it all started with Hope Mission's 24/7 Rescue Van. To learn more about Hope Mission and how you can join our Hearts of Hope Monthly Giving Program, visit www.hopemission.com. Also be sure to leave a rating and review if you enjoyed today's episode of Hope Stories.
On today’s episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of Hope Mission’s 24/7 Rescue Van where your generosity is building a life-changing foundation for hurting and hungry people like Gabriel. To learn more about Hope Mission and how you can join our Hearts of Hope Monthly Giving Program, visit www.hopemission.com.