More Than a Food Pantry

In 1990, CEC began the Adopt-a-Family Program for homeless families by leasing HUD foreclosed homes for $1 a year. Three years later, HUD provided the CEC a transitional homeless family demonstration grant that allowed the program to flourish.

In 2006 Open Arms Home merged into the CEC bringing better resources and services for victims fleeing domestic violence. The property used by Open Arms prior to the merger was sold allowing the CEC to add an apartment community to their portfolio.

Sharon Washburn Center for Hope

Between 2010 and 2017, the CEC focused on providing resources, training & opportunities that help improve earning capability, teach financial strategies, and help restore hope for a future of independence and stability to participants. The Sharon Washburn Center for Hope was built to support the domestic violence program and provide a gathering place for all programing and community engagement with participants. The CEC also received a larger freezer and cooler allowing for healthier food options in the food pantry.

Doing Things Differently

In 2017, the CEC adopted The Working Family Success method of service delivery that is proven to increase success through one to one coaching. This approach is currently applied to all areas of service at the CEC including financial & employment coaching along with education services. Over two years, the CEC strategically sold homes located outside the general area of the CEC offices and purchased 50 condominiums in Hurst to bring our families closer to services and the pantry. This also streamlined maintenance and upkeep of the properties owned by the CEC, improving efficiency.

People Powered

People Empowered is our goal and we continue to work towards that goal.

We continue to serve our community and those in need.
 
Our Vision: Families are at home under God’s provision.
 
Our Mission: Transforming lives by restoring hope.