Annie's House Of Hope

The space is maintained by a small army of passionate volunteers led by Leslie Maddox, the Rural Community Health and Access liaison for Mercy Health in Paris.

The facility, located in Paris, is used by The Call and DCFS workers as a waiting space for children transitioning into Foster Care. It has a kitchen and dining area, infant and toddler room, teen room, a Superhero themed playroom, and a fun barnyard bathroom complete with a trough bathtub. DCFS social workers can bathe, clothe, and feed kids while waiting for placement. The space is inviting and fun and relieves some of the stress and trauma these children experience. The space is available to all DCFS workers, and several counties use the facility for court-ordered supervised visitation with parents and other family members.

The needs are met through donations to the center. Several churches, organizations, and individuals provide necessary support as needed on a rotating basis.

Current projects include installing a stove so that more than microwaved meals can be provided to kids. A stove will also allow parents to cook and enjoy a meal with their kids during their visitation.

Leslie stated that they are now accepting donations to install an enclosed play space so that the children can go outside and play in a safe environment. They are also needing daily routine essentials such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and hairbrushes. The center’s volunteers create personal bags containing toiletry items, small toys, and other items to be given to each child that comes through the door. They also provide clothing, blankets, and winter wear, and as needed car seats, diapers, and furniture to foster parents.

Annie’s House is named after Annette Gack who is Judge Gack’s wife. Annie's wouldn't be what it is today without them. They put in many hours of hard work, cleaning, and painting. The late Jim Richardson was also instrumental in the start-up of the center. Annie’s House of Hope is governed by a board made up of local church leaders and community members. Board members are Paula Beaty, Paul Buchanan, Harlin Brewton, Ray Gack, and Leslie Maddox. If you would like to donate or volunteer, please reach out. Annie’s House of Hope meets a huge need and makes the transition into foster care much less stressful and traumatic for the kids who are in situations they have no control over.

Thank you to everyone who has or is currently supporting Annie’s House. You are appreciated!

Leslie Maddox, Mercy Rural Health Liason at 479-438-0599 or Megan Scott, Regional Coordinator for The Call at 479-651-8816