ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — As you head down the South Slope, you’ll notice a new, vibrant bus parked at Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ. This bus, known as the HOPE Bus, officially opened to the public on July 4 and aims to offer a unique form of mental health support and encouragement.
Origin and Purpose
Cheryl Antoncic’s Vision:
Cheryl Antoncic, co-owner of Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ and founder of the Linked4Life Foundation, is the driving force behind the HOPE Bus. The Linked4Life Foundation is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The HOPE Bus is a recent addition to their initiatives, reflecting Antoncic’s commitment to mental health advocacy.
From Food Service to Hope Service:
The bus itself has an interesting history—it was previously used by Bear’s Smokehouse to serve food during the COVID-19 pandemic. After being retired from food service, Antoncic saw an opportunity to repurpose it for a greater cause. “Since it’s now retired, it made a lot of sense for us to reimagine and transform it into the HOPE Bus and try to continue to give hope to others who really need it,” she explained.
Community Involvement and Support
Message of Hope:
Visitors to the HOPE Bus are encouraged to make a small donation to the Linked4Life Foundation. In return, they can write a message of hope to hang inside the bus. This simple act serves as a powerful reminder that someone cares, fostering a sense of community and support.
Catalyst for Change:
The idea for the HOPE Bus was sparked in 2019 following the tragic suicide of a former manager at Bear’s Smokehouse, who was just 25 years old. This loss deeply affected Antoncic and her team, motivating them to create a project that could help prevent similar tragedies and show continuous support to those in need.
Impact and Future Plans
Supporting Food and Beverage Workers:
All funds raised through the HOPE Bus will be used to provide free counseling services to food and beverage workers in Asheville. This sector, often overlooked in mental health discussions, faces unique challenges and stresses, making this targeted support invaluable.
Continued Commitment to Mental Health:
The HOPE Bus is more than just a vehicle; it represents a movement to destigmatize mental health issues and offer tangible support to those struggling. Antoncic and the Linked4Life Foundation are committed to expanding their impact, ensuring that no one feels alone in their battle with mental health.
In conclusion, the launch of the HOPE Bus marks a significant step forward in community mental health support in Asheville. By transforming a retired food service bus into a beacon of hope and support, Cheryl Antoncic and the Linked4Life Foundation are making a meaningful difference in the lives of many. Through this initiative, they continue to honor the memory of those lost and provide essential resources to those in need.
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