Hopes Portage
Hopes Portage offers transitional housing for families facing housing insecurity. Situated directly across from Shepherd of the Lake, Hopes Portage was established through a collaborative partnership between Scott County, Community Action Partnership (CAP), and Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church (SOLLC).
SOLLC PARTNERSHIP WITH HOPES PORTAGE
Scott County is the overall project and facility owner and operator of Hopes Portage. The CAP Agency provides coordinated services and case management for clients. Shepherd of the Lake provides wrap around services including a food pantry, welcome supply packs containing essential items, housing unit turns between family stays, and special events.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Leadership Roles
Serve as a leader on one of three teams to provide ongoing vision for our wrap around services. We request that leaders commit to a one-year term (September-August).
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Welcome Team: The Welcome Team is dedicated to offering hospitality with integrity, focusing on creating welcoming housing spaces that honor the dignity of families staying at Hopes Portage. This team oversees the collection and distribution of welcome packs, which provide essential items to families as they move in. Additionally, the Welcome Team manages the turnover of housing units between family stays, ensuring each space is ready for the next family in need.
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Food Insecurity Team: The Food Insecurity Team’s vision is to support the health and wellbeing of families by maintaining an onsite food pantry at Hopes Portage. The team manages the pantry to provide weekly groceries and hygiene essentials for families, with baby supplies available upon request.
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Special Events Team: The Special Events Team’s vision is to foster a welcoming and connected community at Hopes Portage. They organize year-round activities for resident families and enhance shared spaces with seasonal decorations.
Volunteer Roles
Looking for a short-term way to make a difference?
Join one of our leadership teams as a volunteer and help bring the vision for Hopes Portage to life!
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Welcome Team: Assist with preparing and turning units.
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Food Insecurity Team: Help deliver food, clean, stock, and rotate pantry items.
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Special Events Team: Support special activities and add seasonal décor.
Sign up to volunteer today!
SIGNUP
Learn more about the Welcome Team
Learn more about the Food Insecurity Team
Email Melanie Cole for more information.
DONATION OPPORTUNITIES
Donate to the Hopes Portage Food Pantry:
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Purchase a food item(s) listed below and drop off at SOLLC by Nov 16, 2025.
Items Needed
Canned items by the case:
Fruit
Meat
Soup
Beans
Fast moving items:
Peanut Butter
Ramen
Mac ‘n Cheese
Rice
Give a monetary donation:
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Submit your financial gifts at our secure donation link