Courtesy Photo Valerie Williams, executive director of Hope Shores Alliance, poses in front of the Alpena Lions Club’s banner on Feb. 6.

The Alpena Lions Club hosted Valerie Williams, executive director of Hope Shores Alliance, at the club’s lunch meeting on Feb. 6.

Hope Shores Alliance has been serving Northeast Michigan for almost 45 years. The alliance’s advocates “are dedicated to helping survivors on their healing journey”.

Through the application of federal and state grants, combined with local fundraisers and public donations, Hope Shores provides counseling, emergency shelter, housing assistance and crisis response.

Huron Shores received 1,870 requests for assistance in 2023.

Because of planning and dedication from Hope Shore’s team, the alliance has been able to assist the majority of those requests.

In collaboration with the schools and Alpena Community College, Hope Shores has been able to provide additional services, which include education and prevention programs and adult and child support groups. Hope Shores Alliance is dedicated to providing the services necessary to ending sexual and domestic violence with the support of the community. You can help by dedicating time, money, or items for resale in their stores (Rogers City and Oscoda).

For more information, visit hopeshores.org.