Operation HOPE

Operation HOPE, a charity effort created by Hanna Hovren, of Redlands, held its first event on Sunday. The fundraiser will help build a new home for a family in Mexico. Through her family’s congregation at First Congregational Church of Redlands and a charitable organization called Hands of Mercy, Hanna experienced the effect of giving first-hand in last fall. Hanna, her parents, Lori and Eric, twin sister Jenna, brother Aiden and about 10 other volunteers drove to México with Hands of Mercy to build a house for a family over a September weekend. Lori Hovren said seeing poverty in Mexico has made an impression on her daughter. Lori Hovren said Hanna has always tried to help the poor. “She has a gentle spirit. She’d sell her toys to make a little bit of money to give it to somebody,” Hovren said. With the help of her family, Hanna organized her first fundraising event for Operation HOPE on Feb. 24 a walk-a-thon that was held in the church hall of First Congregational Church.

Hanna’s goal was $2,800, and before the walk she had raised $1,700 by selling candy and receiving donations from her congregation. The money will be enough to buy a 12 by 12 foot house for a family in Mexico. At the walk, Hanna’s total reached $2,749. Hanna’s mother said Hanna, her sister and brother are contributing the remaining $51. In May, the Hovrens will make their next trip to México with 25 volunteers. Shirley Linden, wife of the First Congregational Church pastor, said Hanna has gotten the whole church involved and aware of her project. In spite of all the recognition, Lori Hovren said Hanna has stayed grounded. “I’m amazed at what she accomplished. Her motives were very pure. They weren’t driven by any sort of recognition,” Hanna’s mother said. For Hanna, her only hope was that the family received a new home. “It could make a difference and they’ll be really happy,” Hanna said.