Rock Hill's Project HOPE in need of monetary donation

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Project HOPE in Rock Hill needs help from generous donors, to continue its mission of providing groceries and financial assistance to families in need.

Gordon Bell, Director of Operations for HOPE Inc., said the organization needs monetary donations to continue helping families pay utility bills and medical costs.

"We have for the past three weeks turned people down for financial assistance," Bell said. "We had to cut that off completely. That's the first time we have had to do that in over 20 years."

​The food pantry at Project HOPE is stocked with everything a family may need, including canned goods, fresh produce, frozen meats, and even birthday cakes for parents who want to give their child a birthday treat.

Judy Dobrowski has volunteered her time at the pantry for about six years.

"It was eye opening to see how many people need this," Durbrowski told Channel 9. "They're just so appreciative when they see their carts. They tear up. They want to hug you. It's just nice to be able to help."

Project HOPE has seen a 30 percent increase in families requesting assistance this year, compared to 2017, Bell said.

"We are seeing more people that are working and still can't make it," Bell told Channel 9. "There's higher food costs, higher electrical costs, higher medical costs."

Bell said the organization gives about 70 pounds of food per person each week.

"That's equating to about $700,000 in food every year," Bell said. "That is increasing. We need help to maintain that level and to make sure those who are in need don't go hungry."

The organization does not pay for controversial medical costs, such as prescription pain medications.

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HOPE will never turn away a hungry family. Bell said even if the pantry is low, volunteers give whatever food they have.

Bell is the only paid employee at the non-profit, which was named an "Angel" on the South Carolina Secretary of State's "Srooges and Angels" list of non-profits in 2016.

According to the South Carolina Secretary of State, 90 percent of HOPE's expenditures go directly to those in need.

"I have seen a decline in clients coming through because we don't have the money to give them," Dubowski said. "We definitely need the money."

If you're interested in helping, you can learn how to donate to Project HOPE here. ​

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