About
Meet Our Founder: Lugenia Whiteside
Born and raised in Oak Park, Sacramento, California, Lugenia Whiteside has always believed that strong communities are built by people who care for one another. Her lifelong passion for helping others, creating opportunities, and uplifting underserved communities led her to establish
H.O.P.E. (Helping Our People Eat) in 2014.
After experiencing the devastating loss of her 17-year-old son, Deonte “Tru” Whiteside, to gun violence in 2016, Lugenia turned her pain into an even greater purpose. Determined to help prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies, she strengthened her commitment to violence prevention, youth mentorship, community restoration, and workforce development.
As the founder of H.O.P.E. and CEO of Tru’s Construction and Traffic Control LLC, Lugenia works to create pathways to employment, education, healing, and economic independence for individuals facing barriers to success.
Her mission extends beyond providing immediate assistance. She believes in equipping individuals and families with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to build sustainable futures.
For Lugenia, H.O.P.E. is more than an organization. It is a commitment to restoring communities, empowering young people, strengthening families, and ensuring that no one is forgotten.
Our Mission
H.O.P.E.’s mission is to provide the people of the community with the resources they need to not just survive, but to thrive.
Our Vision
Our vision is that everyone will have an equal opportunity live out full lives today and tomorrow.
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