Community of Hope: Bringing Warmth, Dignity, and Connection to Carlton County

Listen to the Podcast Here: Community of Hope

In every community, there are people quietly doing transformative work, lifting up neighbors, filling critical gaps, and stepping into hard spaces where compassion is most needed. In the Cloquet, Esko, and Carlton areas, that beacon of hope is Community of Hope, a growing nonprofit dedicated to reducing homelessness and supporting underhoused individuals and families.

Founded in March 2023, Community of Hope was born from a shared conviction among local Christians who believed deeply in living out their faith through action. This volunteer-driven nonprofit brings together people from multiple area churches, united by their desire to extend love, dignity, and practical support to those facing hardship.

At the heart of the organization is Board President Shari Olson, a passionate leader who approaches this work with humility, urgency, and determination.

“I’m trying to help. I’m making a dent and I’m getting something going to address homelessness here,” Shari says.

Meeting Real Needs With Practical Support

Homelessness in the Northland is often hidden, but its impact is undeniable. In the Cloquet area, 20% of individuals experiencing homelessness or unstable housing are children. Many families are one unexpected crisis away from losing safe shelter, reliable food, or access to basic hygiene resources.

Community of Hope steps in with immediate support and ongoing compassion.

Weekly Community Meals

Every Sunday from 4pm–5pm, the nonprofit hosts a warm, welcoming dinner at a rotating location. Each week, 40–85 guests gather for a hot meal, safety, connection, and community. For many, it is a lifeline—a place where they feel seen, supported, and never judged.

Seasonal Relief Kits

The organization responds to Minnesota’s extreme weather with thoughtful seasonal assistance:

• Summer Heat Kits: reusable water bottles, bug spray, hats, bandanas, sunscreen, umbrellas, and lip balm.

• Winter Warmth Gear: coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and blankets for cold-weather survival.

  
  

Pathways to Local Services

Community of Hope also helps individuals connect with critical area resources, including:

• Food shelves

• Meal programs

• Clothing vouchers

• Housing and shelter services

• Community service agencies

• Emergency resources

  
  

This hands-on navigation ensures people are not left alone to figure out complex systems during their most vulnerable moments.

A Growing Network of Compassion

Community of Hope operates with a small but mighty organizational structure led by a Board of Directors and powered entirely by volunteers and donations. Their office at 615 12th Street, Door 3 in Cloquet serves as a weekend hub, with open hours Saturdays from 10am–1pm.

The group is actively expanding programs and building partnerships across Carlton County—always with a focus on meeting people where they are and offering care rooted in dignity.

How to Support Community of Hope

If you feel called to make a difference locally, Community of Hope provides several meaningful ways to get involved:

VOLUNTEER

Help serve weekly community meals, assist with events and programs, or lend time to special projects.Email: events@communityofhope216.org

DONATE ITEMS

Accepted donations include hygiene supplies, coats, hats, gloves, clothing, food items, gift cards, and more.Email: donations@communityofhope216.org

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Monetary contributions directly fund meals, supplies, and outreach efforts.Donate here:www.communityofhope216.org/donate-now/

GENERAL INQUIRIES

Email: info@communityofhope216.orgPhone: 218-600-6520

A Mission Rooted in Faith… and Action

Community of Hope continues to grow, not because homelessness is simple to solve, but because communities thrive when people take small, consistent steps toward caring for one another. Through warm meals, practical resources, and genuine human connection, this organization is making an undeniable impact.

In Cloquet and the surrounding communities, hope is not just a word. It’s a meal, a warm coat, a listening ear, and a team of people who refuse to look away.