Former Church Leader Seeks Funding for Local Shelter

Hubbard's Cupboard founder requests government and televangelist support to expand community services.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:00pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph featuring warm, blurred pools of light and color, evoking the feeling of a community gathering in a cozy, intimate setting.A community-driven effort to establish a new local shelter reflects the ongoing need for more support services in underserved regions.Houston Today

The former leader of the United Dakota Presbyterian Church, Mildred Hubbard, has submitted a $33,000 grant request to the government and reached out to televangelist Joel Osteen for financial assistance to establish a new local shelter. Hubbard currently operates 'Hubbard's Cupboard' to provide aid to those in need, but believes a dedicated shelter is necessary to better serve the community.

Why it matters

With limited social services available in the area, Hubbard's efforts to create a new shelter highlight the ongoing need for more community-based support systems, especially in underserved regions. Her outreach to high-profile figures like Osteen also reflects the challenges smaller organizations face in securing sufficient funding.

The details

After the United Dakota Presbyterian Church closed, Mildred Hubbard began operating 'Hubbard's Cupboard' out of her home to assist local residents in need. Now, she is seeking $33,000 in government funding as well as financial support from televangelist Joel Osteen to establish a dedicated shelter facility. Hubbard believes a physical shelter space is necessary to better accommodate those seeking temporary housing and other services.

  • Hubbard submitted the government grant request in April 2026.
  • Hubbard reached out to Joel Osteen for assistance in April 2026.

The players

Mildred Hubbard

The former leader of the United Dakota Presbyterian Church who now operates 'Hubbard's Cupboard' to provide aid to those in need in her community.

Joel Osteen

The televangelist and senior pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, whom Hubbard has contacted for financial assistance.

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What they’re saying

“'They really need a place like that where they can stay,'”

— Mildred Hubbard, Former United Dakota Presbyterian Church Leader

“'I enjoy it. Helping them makes me forget my problems,'”

— Mildred Hubbard, Former United Dakota Presbyterian Church Leader

What’s next

Hubbard is awaiting a response from the government on her grant request and is hopeful that Joel Osteen will provide financial assistance to help establish the new shelter.

The takeaway

Mildred Hubbard's efforts to create a local shelter highlight the ongoing need for more community-based support services, especially in underserved regions where resources may be limited. Her outreach to high-profile figures like Joel Osteen reflects the challenges smaller organizations face in securing sufficient funding to address pressing social issues.