Our History

Since 2003, Helping Hands Street Mission has been a place where everyone is welcome. Helen and Tom Norris founded Helping Hands as a place where vulnerable people would be reminded of their worth in Jesus, both in acts of loving support and in words of prayer and hope.

Following the Salvation Army Soup Truck with a van full of second-hand clothing quickly moved to a permanent storefront on Barton Street, to which was quickly added a café and program space.

Relationship building has always been the goal, and many community members have found friendship support here over the years as they journeyed through housing and food insecurity, health concerns, and many life transitions. Friends who have walked together over the years include hundreds of local community members, volunteers from all walks of life, and dedicated staff members.