Hope House of Central Illinois is a dream of hope and healing, currently being built into a reality. When complete, it will be a retreat center for parents and families who have suffered the loss of a child.

Three couples in central Illinois experienced the devastating loss of a child or children within a couple years. As they grieved their own unique journeys, they shared a hope in the midst of the pain. Each had been able to get away at some point—to retreat from their everyday routines and experience their pain with privacy or family and friends. The private time away did not take away their grief, but it gave them moments to catch their breath and take a small step forward. The grief process is unending and unpredictable. These couples appreciated the opportunity to step outside their routines and grieve with some space.

As they shared their experiences with one another, they began to wonder how any remnant of good might come from their pain. They decided to begin to dream of inviting others to a place of peace, faith, and solace within the healing journey. The dream of Hope House was born, a retreat location where parents and families experiencing such loss could—without additional burden or cost—find respite, comfort, encouragement, and support. A place constructed on faith, blanketed in tranquility, and filled with peace.

Hope House continues to build as funds are received for the next project and hopes to be serving families within a couple years. In 2018, ground was broken. In 2019, the land was cleared. In 2020, the foundation was completed. (Click here for photos and updates.) During the building process, Hope House serves grieving families in other ways and partners with community organizations, healthcare professionals, funeral directors, and pastors/clergy.

With your help, Hope House will soon be a place to heal, to remember, and to retreat with family.

At Hope House, families will find encouragement. They will find support. They will find healing filled with hope.

Contact us if you are grieving and need help. Or join us with a gift.