Abba House recovery ministry receives ‘massive’ donation from HopeChurch

PERRY — Two organizations partnered up on Wednesday to make a difference for local women. 

On May 13, Abba House received a large donation from HopeChurch – Warner Robins, made of various cleaning supplies, hygiene products and beauty products.

“Anything they need for toiletries, anything they need to clean the house, anything they need to make life doable,” Jennifer Kohlmayer, the organization’s public relations director, said.

Abba House is a local faith-based ministry that houses women for a year and helps them get back on their feet after substance abuse, domestic violence, eating disorders, mental health disorders, or sexual abuse. 

Kohlmayer went through the program herself and now works in community outreach for Abba House.

“We want to talk about the wounds that got you to that point. It’s all about Jesus, all about the love,” Kohlmayer said. “I had no idea that I was worth that and that’s what they do. They show you you’re worthy.”

Kohlmayer said part of her outreach is to local churches. While recently talking with HopeChurch, she mentioned a need for laundry soap, hair care products and toilet paper.

The list grew from there and the church showed up with a box truck full of items, including a surprise.

“[The church] called and said, ‘Could you guys use new furniture?’ It just turned into this massive, beautiful thing. I couldn’t imagine that us simply saying, ‘we’re out of laundry soap,’ would turn into this,” Kohlmayer said.

In total, the group received a mountain of supplies and new couches — a restock of essentials and a revamp of their living room.

Abba House had been searching for years for a new set, hoping something would come through their auxiliary thrift store. Coincidentally, HopeChurch happened to have multiple.

Kohlmayer said the group was incredibly grateful and she was thrilled to be a part of the donation.

“I get to see the girls being so grateful and then I see the [church] being so happy to give. I’m on both sides here, and I’m loving it,” Kohlmayer said.

The name-brand products donated resonated with Kohlmayer, who said the program often uses what it can get.

“These girls are going to feel good. They’re going to feel pretty and they’re going to feel loved,” Kohlmayer said. “For me, not having that my whole life, whatever I can do to make these girls feel loved on a daily basis, I’m all for it.”

Kohlmayer gave the utmost thanks to HopeChurch.

“Thank you for your generous giving. Thank you for loving these girls and thank you for hearing me when I told you we had the need,” Kohlmayer said about her thoughts on the donation.

Abba House is funded through corporate sponsorships, community donations, and the thrift store on Sam Nunn Boulevard. Kohlmayer said the organization always accepts donations and volunteers, and those interested can contact her at (478) 343-0341.

More information on Abba House can be found at abbahouse.com