Photos: New Hope for Families celebrates 10 years

On Friday evening, the grassy field at 4th and Washington streets in downtown Bloomington played host to a 10-year anniversary celebration.

The non-profit New Hope for Families threw itself and the rest of Bloomington a party—free hamburgers and hotdogs, treats from Chocolate Moose, a car show, tethered hot-air balloon rides from TJV Balloons, and live music.

Leading off the music was King Bee and the Stingers. Their set of original blues numbers was belted out by lead singer Sarah Menefee.  Hank Ruff and the Hellbenders followed up with a mix of country rock covers and originals.

Donations to New Hope for Families to support its work providing a place for families experiencing homelessness can be made through the nonprofit’s website.

Wrapping up the evening with a thank-you message was Emily Pike, executive director at New Hope for Families:

Thank you to all of our volunteers who planned the event and help make it happen. Thank you to all the staff. And you know, I said it earlier, but I’ll say it again. Ten years ago, a family who became homeless in this community had nowhere to go. That’s not true any longer. And we don’t ever want it to be true again. We’re so proud to be a part of this community that says no family, no child should ever sleep outside, live in a car or be separated from their loved ones in order to have the things that they need. Thank you for being a part of this community. Thank you for 10 years of New Hope for families. Here’s to the next 10 Here’s to the next 20. Have a great night. Thank you so much.

More photos after the jump.

Photos: New Hope for Families 10-Year Anniversary (Aug. 13, 2021)