Since moving into the Orchard Park Elementary School building in 1982, the Jesus House staff, volunteers, and residents have prepared and provided over 4.5 million meals for people experiencing hunger, homelessness, and addiction. However, due to the growing demand for services and the need for new facilities to keep up with the demand, the Jesus House Board of Directors, CEO, architects, and contractors began praying and planning for a new 5,200 square foot kitchen and dining facility. In May of 2021, Jesus House broke ground and started the vision of building a new kitchen and dining facility that would increase the number of people they could seat and serve at one time from 35 to 180. Our new kitchen was dedicated in June 2022 and continues to minister to our residents and those experiencing homelessness every day.
The new kitchen and dining facility does more than feed more people; it allows people who are hungry, experiencing homelessness, and struggling with addiction enjoy a meal with dignity, something that most have not been able to experience. In addition, Jesus House staff has been able to educate people dining in their facility about the services and resources available to them on their campus and in the community." Jim Hopper, CEO of Jesus House, stated, “we love the opportunity to serve more people in this great city and help meet their physical needs, but most importantly, we are excited that this new facility allows our staff and volunteers to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with those who are hurting in our community. Isaiah 58:10 NLT states, ‘feed the hungry, and help those in trouble, then your light will shine from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.’ We desire to be a light in Oklahoma City that points people to the hope in Jesus Christ.”
Jesus House is an inner-city, non-denominational, faith-focused outreach providing food and clothing to individuals who are experiencing homelessness and have little or no financial means. Jesus House provides a no-cost, 9–12-month Life Transformation Program for those experiencing addiction. In addition, The Jesus House’s regular food basket distribution program provides hundreds of food baskets every Wednesday to individuals and households who need assistance with food security.