How It Began

Hands of Hope Outreach Center was birthed in Pastor Duane Sheriff eighteen years ago through a vision and passion for people. It began in a small double-wide trailer, established in August of 1988 as Victory Life Food Bank. Over the years, it expanded to larger locations and eventually served 490 families a year. However, in 2003, due to the church fire, the food bank was faced with either relocation or closure. Although a new facility was not yet available, the staff's love for people prevailed over circumstances and conditions; and the food bank remained opened by operating under some trees on the church property. For eight weeks, during the hottest months of the year, the volunteers continued to minister and hand out the help that was so desperately needed. Victory Life Food Bank was then moved to the current location in downtown Durant; and as of December 2005, 25,884 families across five Oklahoma counties have been served.

In the spring of 2006, the Hands of Hope Outreach Center opened to encompass the expanding vision of the eldership and church. There has been one unchanging rule throughout time that was mandated by God and it is how the name was conceived. We pray with every person who comes through our doors for assistance. We will hold their hands and touch all that the world would consider unlovely or unclean because it is how Jesus Christ would have done it. We are to be the reflection of Christ Himself in this earth. We are to instill the hope and love that can only come from Him.

Food Bank

The food bank is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Assistance is income-based. Our food bank is supplied through Oklahoma Regional Food Bank in Oklahoma City and through private donations. The food bank is fully funded by the tithes and offerings of the members of Victory Life Family Worship Center. It is predominantly operated by a volunteer staff ranging in age from thirteen to ninety.

Clothing Bank

The clothing bank is open Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is supplied by donations with a convenient drop box located outside. It is predominantly operated by volunteer staff varying in age.

Benevolence

We have been successful in developing relationships with several church and government agencies in the area. We have become familiar with the assistance these agencies have to offer and are able to point families in the right direction to get the help they need.

Christian Counseling

We offer free Christian counseling that is based strongly in the Word of God for individuals and families.

Free Haircuts

The first and third Monday of every month free haircuts are offered to our clients by professional hair stylists. Limited appointment times are available. Hair must be washed and clean prior to the appointment time.

Free Classes Offered to the Public

We have now taken our assistance to the next level by offering the following classes free of charge. These classes will be offered in the afternoons and evenings.

• Literacy (This will also include classes for people with dyslexia.)
• GED
• Basic computer skills
• Computer classes
• English as a second language
• Job Smarts (How to write a resume, fill out an application, dress for an interview, and how to conduct yourself during an interview.)
• Personal care classes

Oppurtunities to Serve

There are many areas and opportunities to serve. If you have an interest and a heart for serving in any of these areas, please call us at (580)920-2574, visit us at 724 West Main in Durant, or Contact Us.