Hope on a Mission: Transforming Lives and Communities with Cara Mia

In the heart of Poughkeepsie, New York, a street outreach ministry called Hope on a Mission is making a monumental difference in the lives of those struggling with homelessness and addiction. Founded by Cara Mia, this organization offers more than just meals and clothing; it provides a beacon of hope, love, and community. As Cara explains, "I was given the marching orders to go be the woman I needed when I was homeless and addicted," and she has made it her mission to serve others with that same dedication and compassion.

Hope on a Mission serves over a hundred people weekly with hot meals and offers clean, dry clothing along with hygiene items. "We make sure that people have clean, dry clothing, seasonally appropriate clothing, footwear, hygiene items, but mostly community and relationships of unconditional love," Cara emphasizes. The ministry loves and serves people right on the street, ensuring they are seen, cared for, and recognized as dignified members of the community.

A new initiative, the Ministry in Motion, is set to launch with a "Heart and Home" bus, a 20-passenger school bus transformed to provide outreach services on the go. Covering key locations in Poughkeepsie, this mobile ministry will reach those who might not be able to come to the usual meal spots, extending their impact even further.

The bus, scheduled to start its rounds in June or July, will drive down Main Street, with stops at parks and the train station, bringing meals and love to more community members. “This is going to be so much bigger than you even imagined,” says Cara, sharing the excitement and faith she holds in this new project.

In addition to this mobile outreach, Hope on a Mission operates a thrift store across from the Arlington Post Office on Raymond Avenue. This store not only helps support their projects financially but also recycles donations to assist those in need more effectively.

In celebration of its ten-year anniversary, Hope on a Mission will host the annual Homecoming Fundraiser at Locust Grove on October 2, 2025. It promises to be an evening of community support, filled with raffles, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and non-alcoholic cocktails. All proceeds support the organization's growing outreach efforts. For those interested in attending or contributing, ticket sales will begin on August 1st, and donations for the raffle are welcome.

Community involvement is vital to the ongoing success of Hope on a Mission, and Cara invites clubs, organizations, and individuals to participate. "Send us an email through Hope on a mission.org if you want to buy tickets or donate something for a raffle table," she encourages, emphasizing the collective effort needed to "go be the light" in their community.

To support Hope on a Mission or get involved with their initiatives, visit their website at hopeonamission.org. Whether by volunteering, donating, or attending their events, every effort helps turn Kara’s vision of unconditional love and community support into reality for those who need it most.

Listen to the Full Interview: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/ZKB6J0S5XVb