When the COVID-19 crisis hit, I realized that while churches are having to shut their doors and businesses are being forced to close, poverty still exists and people still need help. I was able to partner with Lil’ Caesars Pizza and Panera Bread to help feed the most vulnerable. Over the last three weeks I’ve been able to take food to over 1,000 people.
I always start at the homeless shelters. Did you know that many of the people who live in homeless shelters are families who have jobs but still can’t make ends meet? The kids especially love getting the pizza.
On Wednesdays I go to the Volunteers of America Veterans resource center. They have been having trouble getting the bread they need with all of the shortages, so it’s nice to be able to help provide that. I give a lot of food out to people on the street. Sometimes I’m asked what church I’m with because people have had bad experiences in the past and think I’m going to condemn them. I say, “the church of the boots.”
Some days I like to take pizzas to our first responders. The police officers and firefighters all know me and they appreciate the support. I’ll even introduce homeless people that I know to our local police officers…as humans. I try to create unity and inspire hope because we’re all in this crisis together.
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Thank you, Justin for all you’re doing to feed the hungry and build connections in your community. We need examples like yours now more than ever.
