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The organization serves as a community hub, providing support and a sense of belonging, especially for those without friends or family, One Mission Manager Shelly Houlihan said.

For two One Mission frequenters, they’re not only friends, they’re also family. Carolyn Sharpe and Darnell Henry grew up in the same area and knew of each other, but they didn’t know until later in life that they had the same father.

Sharpe said Henry’s mother told her they were half siblings and she started to cry. “She said, ‘Honey, don’t cry.’ She said, ‘It’s all right.’ And ever since then, we’ve been brother and sister,� Sharpe said.

Sharpe and Henry are regulars at One Mission, coming every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Henry described One Mission as a supportive, community-oriented organization that is welcoming and endorses a positive environment. “They make sure I’m straight. They even gave me a birthday party,� Henry said.

Henry is missing a significant amount of his upper and lower front teeth, and said staff helped him secure a dental appointment to get “some new teeth.� He said he’s very excited about that.

One Mission Cambridge is a nonprofit serving vulnerable residents. It provides a space where community members can access a food pantry, community navigation services like help with job and housing applications, dinners, and counseling programs.

It stands as a warming and cooling shelter during extreme weather conditions, providing air conditioning or heat and offering food and drinks to anyone who comes in during operating hours, which are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m.

According to the organization’s website, it was founded in June of 2022 by a coalition of Christian churches and ministries, dedicated to bringing hope through Jesus Christ by addressing the physical and spiritual needs of men, women and children.

Houlihan started as a volunteer and became the manager in June of 2024. “I just love the people and being able to help. It’s rewarding,� Houlihan said.

The nonprofit relies heavily on volunteers and donations, both monetary and in-kind. There are options to donate via check or online through their website where there is also an Amazon Wishlist.

One Mission Cambridge is hosting a Gift Card Bingo Fundraiser on Oct. 5 at the Elks Lodge #1272. Registration is open online for $25 at the One Mission Cambridge website, or you can pay $30 at the door. There will be door prizes, a tricky tray and a raffle.