On Friday, May 16, from 4:30 to 6 p.m., Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community invites the public to a special curbside meal pickup event. The fundraising initiative will be held at LCBC - Manheim Campus, 2392 Mount Joy Road, and all proceeds will directly support the residents of Mt. Hope.

The meal, provided by Peters' BBQ, will feature a menu of grilled pork barbecue served on a soft roll, homemade baked macaroni and cheese, savory baked beans with bacon, Mt. Hope's signature creamy coleslaw, a fruit cup in juice and soft gourmet cookies from Amy's Mixing Bowl in Manheim.

This event is part of Mt. Hope's celebration of its 56th anniversary and reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to serving seniors and individuals with disabilities, many of whom live on limited or fixed incomes. Located in Rapho Township, Manheim, Mt. Hope is home to 50 residents who rely on the facility for skilled nursing and rehabilitation services.

"Most of our residents do not have the financial resources or the broader supportive network to cover the cost of their care," explained Kris Wilson, director of advancement. "There is an average gap of about $200 a day per resident between the state Medicaid reimbursement rate and the actual cost of care for our residents on this state assistance."

Additionally, Mt. Hope is unique, Wilson said, because there is no initial fee to be paid upfront upon entering the home. The community works hard to be sure financial concerns are never a barrier to receiving care.

"Last year, Mt. Hope alone covered approximately $1.7 million of unreimbursed care costs or charitable care," she noted. "This Medicaid funding gap makes it increasingly difficult for Mt. Hope to absorb the cost of benevolent care without searching for other alternatives to offset rising costs and continuing with creative fundraising initiatives."

The drive-through meal not only provides a way to support the Mt. Hope residents, but also ensures Mt. Hope remains a relevant and inviting care option for many in need in the community. Mt. Hope is known not only for its quality clinical care but also for its vibrant activity calendar.

Wilson noted that the home is considered "Manheim's little best-kept secret," but residents know the benefits of living there.

"We're so proud of the excellent care and the wide array of activities we provide," she shared. Residents enjoy activities such as trips to Stormers baseball games, Memorial Day celebrations, Mother's Day and Father's Day parties, small-group Bible studies, trips to Lancaster Symphony Orchestra concerts and much more.

A special event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, Wilson remarked, when the community will hold an adult prom.

"Our residents dress up in their finest attire," she said. "We will have a DJ playing live music; dancing; and a charcuterie board of cheese, crackers, grapes and cookies will be served. It's almost as if the second-floor resident lounge is decorated back in time for their prom night."

It's just one way Mt. Hope strives to create a sense of belonging for all residents, she said.

"At Mt. Hope, we always need prayer partners and people to volunteer gifts and time through meaningful activities and connections," Wilson noted. "If you are interested in serving, seeing how your financial gifts impact our residents' lives and have a desire to join in monthly giving opportunities, please reach out."

Wilson also wishes to thank the community for helping contribute to Mt. Hope in many ways throughout the year.

"Your contributions help us to continue to shine God's light," she said. "We're so grateful for generous gifts that bless Mt. Hope. Thank you for caring about our residents and their home."

Preorders for the barbecue meal will be accepted through Saturday, May 10. While additional meals may be available on the day of the event, they will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Payment is due at pickup and can be made via cash or check (payable to Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community), which should be dropped into a designated collection box.

For details on the meal, including the cost, contact Wilson at 717-682-8026 or email advancement@mthopenazarene.org.