Building stronger communities, together. Every act of kindness makes a difference.
Hope starts here

Together, we can make a lasting difference.

We bring hope, understanding, giving, and support to individuals and families in need.

Small acts. Big impact.

Your time, generosity, and support help turn compassion into action. Join us in making a positive difference—one person and one neighborhood at a time.

Our story

About H.U.G.S.

H.U.G.S (Hope, Understanding, Giving, and Support) was founded in 2015 by Shawonna Metcalf with a passion for helping others and making a difference in the community. Inspired by watching her mother serve the homeless, care for the elderly, and help those in need, Shawonna developed a heart for giving and supporting others from a young age.

At H.U.G.S, we believe that everyone deserves compassion, understanding, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Our organization focuses on serving the homeless community by providing essential items and resources, supporting youth who may be dealing with trauma, and encouraging single mothers, fathers, and individuals who are starting over.

We understand that life can be unpredictable, and at some point, anyone may need a helping hand. Through community outreach, support services, and acts of kindness, H.U.G.S is dedicated to spreading hope and reminding people that they are not alone.

Our Mission

At H.U.G.S, our mission is to bring hope, understanding, giving, and support to individuals and families in need. We are committed to serving the homeless community, supporting youth impacted by trauma, and uplifting single parents and individuals rebuilding their lives by providing resources, compassion, encouragement, and community support.

Looking forward

Our Vision

Our vision is to create lasting change in our communities by providing resources, support, and understanding to those in need. H.U.G.S is committed to uplifting youth, helping them discover and walk in their purpose, supporting single parents and families with essential items and assistance, and helping our homeless community move toward safer and more stable living conditions.

What we do

Making a difference where it matters most.

H.U.G.S. focuses on community outreach that meets people with dignity, compassion, and practical support.

Homeless Community Support

Offer compassionate outreach and connect people experiencing homelessness with practical resources and community support.

Youth Support

Support youth impacted by trauma with encouragement, understanding, and connections to helpful resources.

Support for Families

Uplift single parents and individuals rebuilding their lives with compassion, encouragement, and community connections.

Our impact

Change happens when we show up for one another.

From distributing meals, clothing, and essential supplies to showing up with encouragement, H.U.G.S. works alongside volunteers and neighbors to care for our community.

OutreachServing people experiencing homelessness with food, clothing, and essential resources
ConnectionSupporting youth, single parents, and families with care and encouragement
CommunityBringing volunteers together to extend hope and practical help
Get involved

Make a difference with H.U.G.S.

Join our community outreach efforts or stay informed about upcoming opportunities to serve.

Volunteer Sign-Up

Interested in serving with H.U.G.S.? Tell us a little about yourself and the ways you'd like to help.

This opens your email app with a prefilled message to onehugsfoundation@gmail.com. Review and send the email to complete your inquiry. No information is stored on this website.

What's next

Upcoming Events

Annual Homeless Event — December 12, 2026

Small Bag, Big Impact! Help H.U.G.S. prepare care bags and winter clothing for people experiencing homelessness. Please bring 10 prepared bags if you can. Each bag should include deodorant, socks, toothpaste and toothbrush, a hat, and gloves. Donations of winter clothing are also welcome. The event will also include chili and cornbread.

Time and location: To be announced. Contact H.U.G.S. for details.

Follow our social media pages for announcements about community outreach, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give.

H.U.G.S. Annual Homeless Event flyer for December 12, 2026, requesting ten care bags with deodorant, socks, toothpaste, toothbrush, hat and gloves, plus winter clothing donations
H.U.G.S. Annual Homeless Event · December 12, 2026

Have an event question? Email H.U.G.S.