Cup of Hope

By: Ron Day

This year was the ninth installment of the benefit luncheon in Knoxville, Tennessee known as the Cup of Hope, a key component in the support and development of the Joy D. Baker Center, the domestic violence recovery home at The Salvation Army in Knoxville. Each year Cup of Hope provides a much-needed focus on domestic violence that occurs in the Knoxville area as well as highlighting those that become victors through the Joy D. Baker Program. The Joy D. Baker Center has served more than 80 individuals in 2022, individuals that found rescue and restoration from a life of domestic violence. One shining example of the need for this program was this year's guest speaker and victor, Makayla Patrick.

Many of the Knoxville community's business and political leaders were in attendance. Among those was the Knox County Mayor, the Honorable Glenn Jacobs. Mayor Jacobs stated, "Today's Salvation Army of Knoxville's Cup of Hope luncheon was a fantastic event supporting a worthy cause!" Attendees had the opportunity to further support the Joy D. Baker Center by purchasing surprise gift boxes during the event and were asked NOT to open them until the end of the event.

One of the key leaders and planners of this year's luncheon was Major Paula Henderson. In the midst of so many other necessary events taking place during this time of year, Major Paula lent her experience and training in the successful planning and execution of the Cup of Hope luncheon.

“Our annual Cup of Hope event is important for raising funds for our domestic violence program at the Joy Baker Center,” said Major Paula Henderson. “However, our fundraising and our efforts are only effective if we continue to raise awareness about the issue of domestic violence. We, along with many community partners, desire to keep filling the cups—the lives—of men and women affected by domestic violence FULL OF HOPE in the name of Jesus Christ!"