Philadelphia Outreach a Success
On Saturday, September 13th, more than 300 volunteers from area churches converged at 17th & Tioga for the Philadelphia Convoy of Hope. Their mission: to demonstrate hope and compassion to the hurting in their community. These are tough streets that have seen better days. This is a community in need of hope.
Minutes before the start of the outreach, a fatal drug-related shooting occurred 500 feet away from the site entrance, offering a sobering reminder that for many people in this community, life is hard and life is short. It also confirmed that we were exactly where we were needed most, and perhaps, when we were needed most.
Despite the morning’s events, the guests at this super-sized “block party” smiled and laughed as they enjoyed a free lunch and live entertainment, while hundreds of kids played in the carnival area.
Local barbers and hairstylists provided free haircuts to children. Local photographers took free family portraits. Through Operation Warm hundreds of kids received new winter coats in anticipation of the cold months ahead.
Volunteers were on-hand to pray with guests who expressed their needs.
In addition to all of the services offered, 20,000 lbs. of free groceries were distributed.
“Thanks for being here today,” said a father who attended with his 8-year-old son said. “We needed this.”