My Day Learns About Nutrition

By 7017444915 February 24, 2026
Home looks different for everyone. For Jon, home is now the place he shares with his sister, Shelly. Jon was already living in Shelly’s home when she became one of Hope Haven’s first Host Home providers. What started as a practical next step quickly grew into something far more meaningfu l. As Shelly shared, “Opening our home to Jon was a blessing we didn’t know we needed.” Through Hope Haven’s Host Home program, individuals with disabilities live in the homes of carefully selected providers who offer guidance, companionship, and everyday support. Host Homes are just one of several residential options at Hope Haven, alongside staffed community living homes, because no two individuals require the same level or style of care. What matters most is creating a place where people can live safely, grow their independence, and feel truly included. For Jon, that environment means being part of everyday family life, whether that’s grocery shopping and shared meals or being able to help with Shelly’s in-home daycare. “Living here makes me feel happy,” Jon says. For Shelly’s family, the experience has been transformative. “We’ve all become more patient and understanding,” she shares. “My boys have learned gratitude, acceptance, and what it means to truly welcome someone into your life.” That mutual impact is what makes Host Homes unique. “It doesn’t feel like a job,” Shelly explains. “It’s more of a relationship. You get to help someone feel independent, yet safe.” She was quick to add that the impact goes both ways. As she puts it, “You just might meet your best friend.” Because of supporters like you, individuals like Jon have the opportunity to live in a home where they are supported and valued — not just as clients, but as people. Your generosity makes it possible for Hope Haven to offer a range of residential supports, creating safe, stable, relationship-centered living options for individuals with disabilities right here in our communities. “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” — Romans 12:10 If you wish to contribute, please CLICK HERE to donate today.  Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in Hope Haven’s mission.
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From April – August 2022 the Orange City My Day program has been learning about nutrition.  Donna Mills and several students from the Iowa State University Extension Office came to Orange City once a week to teach the group cooking skills and how to plan nutritious meals. 

My Day Manager Erin stated “Each session was met with excitement from everyone who participated and it was great to see the relationships built between community and our members.” 

One highlight was making smoothies in a blender that was powered by a bicycle (see picture below). The group also learned how to make flavored water with fruit and herbs did some menu planning and baked healthy treats. Each person was given a laminated notecard with nutrition facts and suggestions for different foods each week for future reference. 

Thank you to Donna and all the students from ISU who came to help out! Learn more about Hope Haven’s My Day program by visiting  https://www.hopehaven.org/what-we-do/day-habilitation  

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