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In July 2008 a 70 year old man was asking customers at an Ocala Burger King for shelter. He was mentally ill and without family or friends and approached Brad Dinkins seeking a place to stay. He put the man in his truck but was unable to find a motel that would accept him. But later that night Mr. Dinkins found a vacated apartment nearby.
Other concerned citizens joined with Brad in a new effort to help the homeless, and within 6 months they were housing 12 people, and helping rebuild their lives.
On July 22, 2009 they legally became a Florida nonprofit corporation, and selected the name Helping Hands Foundation, Inc.
In May 2009 they located and began remodeling a 20 bed apartment building to provide housing for the homeless.
On December 22, 2009 Helping Hands purchased and furnished the 20 bedroom apartment building mentioned previously.
On February 28, 2010 the Helping Hands Thrift Store was opened in Silver Springs Shores, to help provide jobs and financial support for underwriting housing expenses for the homeless they were helping.
On December 20, 2010 the Treasure Shoppe was opened at 8820 S.W. Highway 200 in Ocala. To further assist our efforts to supply support to the needy people of Marion County.
On July 20th 2011 Helping Hands purchased an eight unit apartment building. Expanding our housing capabilities by 16 Bedrooms. It was decided that this property would be used to help women and children exclusively.