A Decade of Hope: Our Partnership with Handfuls of Hope
Some partnerships become more than projects—they become family.
For the past ten years, Novation Church has partnered with Handfuls of Hope to serve communities in the Dominican Republic. What began as a mission opportunity has grown into a lasting relationship built on trust, friendship, and a shared desire to demonstrate the love of Christ in practical ways.
Each year, we send mission teams and medical teams to work alongside local leaders and families. Through this partnership, we sponsor a school, provide needed supplies, support community food distributions, and worship together with local churches. Our teams have helped repair homes, renovate portions of the school building, construct a bathroom facility, and distribute food to families throughout the surrounding villages.
What makes this partnership so meaningful is that ministry flows both directions. While we arrive ready to serve, the people of the Dominican Republic welcome us with incredible hospitality, generosity, and joy. They care for us as we care for them, reminding us that the Church is one family united across languages, cultures, and borders.
As we prepare for this year’s trip, we’re collecting supplies that will travel with our team and bless children and families in the communities we visit. Our goal is to fill three large checked-bag-sized suitcases with gently used and new items such as:
- Beanie Babies and small stuffed animals
- Hot Wheels and small toy cars
- Crayons, markers, and coloring books
- Small containers of Play-Doh
- Balloons for balloon animals
- Face paint
- Bracelets, nail polish, hair ties, and bows
- Deflated basketballs, soccer balls, and volleyballs
- Small toys that can easily fit into a suitcase
- Suitcases that can be left behind for future ministry use
Monetary donations are also appreciated. Every extra checked suitcase costs approximately $60 to transport, and financial gifts help ensure supplies reach the communities that need them most.
Thank you for helping us continue a decade-long investment in a community that has become dear to our hearts. Together, we are sharing hope, building relationships, and demonstrating the love of Jesus one trip, one family, and one village at a time.