Late in 2014, a need was identified in our city for children who had limited access  to church. After much prayer, a search began for a truck that would suit the purpose of ministering to large groups of children in the heart of our city, specifically within the Highlands community.  A specialized truck was located that would meet the needs of a mobile children’s church. Hope Point Church graciously purchased the truck so our Sidewalk Hope ministry could begin. During this same time, we began designing our logo, establishing a Prayer Advisory Team, and planning how we would minister to the children in our community.

In the Spring of 2015, Sidewalk Hope began going into three Spartanburg housing developments known to be areas of concentrated poverty.  Site visits were made weekly in each community and attendance grew. As Sidewalk Hope began to grow, more volunteers were trained and supporting churches came on board to co-labor in taking the gospel to children and their families right where the children live. In addition to the weekly site visits, a Discipleship School grew from a need for children who made a decision to follow Christ or who expressed an interest for more in-depth learning. Each year, thirty-six children in grades 1-8  complete a nine-month discipleship program.

We were thankful to receive our 501(c)3 status in 2017, which enabled us to continue doing even greater work God called us to do within this city. We have been able to expand our ministry to include not only the spiritual needs of our children, but also some of their physical and emotional needs through special events such as summer activities, VBS weeks, field days, Back-to-School Backpacks, Christmas Blessings, Truth and Treat, and benevolence needs. 

In 2019, a fourth site was added to the weekly schedule. Approximately, 55 more children were able to hear how precious and valuable they are to Jesus and their Heavenly Father, and how they can have a personal relationship with someone who loves them dearly.  Sidewalk Hope remains in prayer and is always willing to go where God leads….

Today, we continue to build on-going relationships with over 250 children and their families each week and serve approximately 700 children in total during the year. Sidewalk Hope is committed to being a long-term presence in these communities and ministering to the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of the children we serve ~ all to His glory.