May 2026 Newsletter
Verse of the Month
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
~Proverbs 16:24
Tangible Hope and Honey Bees at the Kent County Juvenile Service Center!
Yes, you read that correctly! Tangible Hope Ministries partnership with the KCJSC is all the buzz!
In a recent meeting with the leadership at the Kent County Juvenile Service Center, we were discussing new ways for us to partner with them. The Community Programs Caseworker told us about a new program they wanted to start in Northern Kent County, called Hive to Thrive. They had a new beekeeping program ready to go for the kids but needed to have the beehive. Another organization provided the location, beekeeping suits, honeybees, and other necessary items. Purchasing the beehive was an easy decision. Having adult children that are both in environmental careers, I didn’t have to be convinced of the value of this program. There are many parallels with beekeeping and life lessons.
Did you know…
- Each bee’s small contribution helps the whole hive thrive
- Every bee has a unique role that supports the colony
- Bees share information so all can benefit
- Bees quickly adapt when the hive faces change or loss
- They work together to survive challenges like weather and predators
- The hive adjusts as needed to stay strong
- Bees respond to calm, steady behavior
- Gentle, intentional movement keeps the hive at peace
- The hive reflects the care (or neglect) it receives
- Honey takes time—bees model patience and steady work
- Bees store resources to prepare for the future
- Even busy bees rest to stay productive
The beehives will be installed mid-late May. We will keep you updated and share pictures about the progress made and the impact it is having on the kids.
Thank you all who have made donations to make these impactful programs possible at youth service centers throughout West Michigan.
With gratitude,
Paula Creswell
Executive Director
Click the link below to donate and help create pathways to hope, healing, and new beginnings.
Tangible Hope Ministries would like to extend our sincere thanks to Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church for partnering with us as a Tangible Hope Church.
Pilgrim Rest has generously allowed us to hold our Monday Living Forward* class at the church. Because of their generosity, we are able to invite anyone and everyone to participate in our program! Our previous location limited us to only the residents living in the building we were using. Our class is now open to anyone who would like to participate.
Pilgrim Rest is located at 510 M.L.K. Jr. Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Sunday services begin at 10:45 a.m. Visit prmbcgr.org to find out all the amazing things that are happening at Pilgrim Rest!
Your congregation can join us and become a Tangible Hope Church—walking alongside those often neglected and forgotten in our society. E-mail paulac@tangiblehopeministries.org for information on how your church can become involved.
Living Forward Class Schedule – MAY & JUNE is available now
pen pals on the inside
“I don’t have anyone, including family or friends beyond the wired fences. No one takes time to be a friend to a prisoner. Someone who does not know me, writes me. This changes everything.”
~Inmate at Baraga Max CF”
program participant
“This is such a wonderful ministry you have. I am so glad to be a part of it. Blessings on your work.”
~Esther, pen pal
PEN PAL GUIDELINES (and why we have them.)
Each month, we will share one of our guidelines and the reason for it. We want to clearly communicate to you the importance of maintaining these rules.
Guideline
“I will send no financial or material goods (including Bibles) to my pen-pal, or any members of their family”.
Reason
Since many prisoners have limited access to books, food, and other things, they will ask for them. We flag this, and we make clear to both parties that this is not what this program is for. Sending financial support and material items can change the relationship from a friendship to a resource. It also sets a precedence, and lead to more asks.
Tangible Hope Ministries Mission:
Motivated by the teachings of Jesus, Tangible Hope Ministries endeavors to show unconditional love to people overlooked by society, to inspire hope, dignity, and a path to restoration with family and community.
Tangible Hope Ministries Vision:
Tangible Hope Ministries envisions a world where no life is defined by its darkest moment. We partner with local churches and organizations to offer second chances, build community, and share the power of tangible hope.
Tangible Hope Ministries | P.O. Box 413 | Grandville, MI 49468 US
