JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It has been a few years since 15-year-old Hannah Hall launched her nonprofit “Hannah’s Hope House,” which collects new and gently used coats, gloves, hats, socks and blankets to gift to those experiencing homelessness.
A lot has changed in that short timeframe. Hannah has started high school, won a Jacksonville Image Award and blossomed into a healthy, happy young woman.
One thing that hasn’t changed is her passion for helping others, and watching others do the same.
“I’m grateful to them because I mean, I wouldn’t want to be outside because it is very cold. Even with the stuff I do have, I am still cold,” Hannah explained. “And I mean, just imagine being outside with no jacket or no coat?”
Hannah was first inspired to launch her nonprofit after seeing people in the community experiencing homelessness with her own eyes. To make sure these people stay warm this holiday season, donations are needed ahead of the coat drive.
Saturday is the last day to donate. From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, donated items can be dropped off at All People International Church on Edgewood Avenue. Hannah and her family will be outside to accept the donations.
Hannah said for her, one of the best parts is seeing others step up to help, too.
“It makes me feel great that people have a heart to give, and people know that this is an issue,” Hannah said. “And that they are stepping up to the plate to help all of us just be kind to others.”
Over the last few years, Hannah’s Hope House has collected and distributed upward of 1,100 coats. Hannah’s own hope is to continue to inspire others to give a little and make lives better for others.
“I just hope that they will see that this is a need and necessity to help those who can’t help themselves. And I just hope that it inspires something in them,” Hannah said.
The date for the annual coat drive is still being finalized. News4JAX will update this story once that information is available.
The address for All People International Church is 1993 Edgewood Ave., Jacksonville, FL, 32208. To learn more about Hannah’s Hope House and how to volunteer, visit: Hannah’s Hope Houses.
