Oscar’s First Wheelchair

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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Meet Oscar. Oscar is 28 years.

Everywhere he went he was carried by his father…

Until the day he came to a wheelchair distribution in Costa Rica – where he received his first wheelchair from Hope Haven International Ministries.

Due to his extreme Scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy the seating team had to build a cushion to support the curvature of his spine. When we adjusted his headrest and he was able to keep his head up without someone holding it his face lit up with the biggest smile.

He loved that he could be tilted in his chair and he laughed when we adjusted his footrests (his legs are very ticklish!) We worked on getting the fit of the chair the positioning and seating correct for several hours. When Oscar’s father asked if he could drive Oscar’s new wheels Oscar would communicate no.

There were lots of smiles some tears and most of all – there was the beautiful gift of human generosity and connection. Language barriers and cultural differences fade away and one person connects with another human spirit. This is the beauty of service. This is what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

If you want to volunteer for a wheelchair distribution trip with Hope Haven International Ministries or find other ways to get involved please email Martina at mcastle@hopehaven.org

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