Lenten Almsgiving: Sunnyside Ministry
Dear Hope Church,
A small group of Hope members has been meeting to explore how we can partner with existing ministries to serve our city, beginning the Hope for the City team. Our “homework” for the last few months was to explore a few of the ministries we’ve discussed by volunteering at them. Most of us took a turn shadowing Ginny Evans at Sunnyside Ministry in Southside Winston. When I arrived for the 9am shift, there was already a line at the door, folks waiting to receive their food and clothing for the month. Most had driven or gotten rides from friends, but a few had walked. Many spoke English but many only spoke Spanish. Inside, I was struck by how inviting and gracious the team was. Ginny showed Jessica Shore and me around and we took turns helping with intake at the front desk and watching her do interviews. Jessica even got to exercise her Spanish muscles by doing a few herself.
What I learned as I talked to staff is how abundant the need is and how flexible the opportunities are. They need regulars every week, but will also let you show up at the door and be put to work. They need food and gently used clothes and folks to help sort it and shop it. They can even put groups of adults and kids to work at set times pouring dried beans into bags or sorting canned goods. For all of us who shadowed, the grace-driven nature of the leadership and volunteer team came through. They are all about caring for those who need it in their neighborhood. This week, we’re still running a drive for gently used towels, sheets, and blankets. If you have any of these items and can bring them, you’ll find a bin in the hallway by the office. If you’d like to hear more, feel free to reach out to Ginny or the Hope for the City Team (for password, contact Sarah Beam).
Sarah