The Christian Outreach Program – Elkhorn (COPE) is a multi-denominational non-profit organization made up of ten Christian churches in western Douglas County.
We help families stay in their homes and keep food on the table by providing financial assistance, caring concern, educational assistance and referrals when needed most.
COPE provides HOPE to our neighbors in need, regardless of religious beliefs, cultural, or ethnic background, while maintaining the confidentiality and dignity of those who are served.
The vision of COPE is to build relationships with families and individuals in Western Douglas County so they can keep their dignity during difficult times in their lives.
We provide resources for both short-term and long-term support that increases the self-sufficiency of our neighbors.
COPE began in 2001 with area churches offering fellowship and English Language Learner lessons.
The first COPE food pantry was offered in 2003. The food pantry offerings have remained constant since the beginning, having taken on many different forms but always a product of our community agencies and volunteers striving to provide our neighbors with essentials for their families.
COPE first started offering clothing and household goods in 2005. COPE is now partnered with Open Door Mission to run their Elkhorn Outreach location which provides guests with monthly clothing and household shopping in addition to their monthly food pantry.
The first COPE Christmas party was in 2005. This long-standing tradition is an entirely donation- and volunteer-driven program. It’s always a happy day of celebration, even this year during the COVID19 pandemic when Santa waved from the curb as volunteers put gift bags in car trunks during our drive-through event.
Over the past couple of years, COPE has taken different forms in terms of location and services offered. One thing has and will remain, we are here to provide hope to our neighbors in need. We look forward to the opportunities the future holds for new offerings and programs.
