Helping Hand Outreach Ministry

Reaching out to help the poor, homeless, and underprivileged is the purpose of the Full Gospel Holy Temple "Helping Hand" Outreach Ministry. The non-profit, charity organization was founded in December, 1982, by Mrs. Shirley Murray, wife of the Rev. Lobias Murray, pastor, Full Gospel Holy Temple Church, Dallas, Texas.

Located at 340 Ann Arbor (in Oak Cliff), the "Helping Hand" organization caters to the need of the indigent and needy in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Those in need are given food, clothes and various household necessities throughout the year.

Some of the circumstances that warrant assistance from the "Helping Hand" organization include: senior citizens living off fixed income, death (head of household), the homeless, foreign refugees, and emergency situations such as fire and unemployment crisis.

In addition to helping persons in the aforementioned situations, "Helping Hand" sponsors an annual Christmas Giveaway. Each year the number of persons served increases. Last year over 2000 families were given food, clothes and toys.

It is the endeavor of this organization to extend a "Helping Hand" to those who are truly in need. To verify the need of the people we serve, our staff seeks referrals from social service agencies and government agencies throughout the metroplex. Additionally, we observe tragedies that are reported in the daily newspapers, and render assistance to those persons whenever contact can be made.

Staffed by approximately 75 volunteer workers, they provide the manpower for the neatly organized, department store-like appearance on the inside of the "Helping Hand" building.

Because of the organization's commitment to help in providing an antidote for many of the community's social ills, numerous city and state agencies has applauded the efforts of the "Helping Hand" founder, Mrs. Shirley Murray, with numerous plaques and special recognition awards. As a tax-exempt organization, all donations are receipted and can be used for tax deduction purposes.