This past July was a vibrant month of outreach and connection for Melanie and me, truly embodying the spirit of community engagement in Acres Homes and beyond. Our efforts focused on meeting both the tangible and spiritual needs of the residents, fostering relationships, and embracing unexpected opportunities to share hope.
We began the month by engrossing ourselves in community outreach in Acres Homes, specifically with our first school supply drive at Garden City Apartments. The Batho Pele Resource Center was thrilled to hand out backpacks filled with much-needed school supplies. This initiative wasn’t just about providing resources; it was a wonderful chance to deepen our relationships with the residents and apartment managers, who expressed immense appreciation from the families receiving these vital supplies for the upcoming school year.
Our outreach continued as Melanie and I partnered with Mattie Mason to sponsor a Health Fair at the Lincoln Park Apartments, also in Acres Homes. This event allowed BPRC to conduct surveys, gaining valuable insights into the spiritual health of the residents and helping us understand how best to serve the Lincoln Park community. Despite it being only our second visit to this area, the warm reception and subsequent invitation to return for further resource provision highlight the growing trust and connection we’re building.
An unexpected opportunity arose when my father and I volunteered downtown with the FRESH project. My auntie generously provided a meal for the nonprofit, designed to feed 100 people that evening. Before the blessing of the food, the scheduled evangelist was late, and Queen, the director, asked if any volunteers could share a message. My auntie’s prompt pointing led to me happily obliging. I had the privilege of sharing my testimony, communicating to the masses their inherent value in God’s eyes and their divine purpose. The Gospel proved to be a powerful message for those in need, beautifully complemented by the nourishing meal my auntie provided. It was also a profound blessing to serve alongside my dad as we handed out meals in downtown Houston.
Looking back on July, it’s clear that the month was a testament to the power of consistent presence, collaborative effort, and divine timing. From equipping students for success and assessing community well-being to sharing personal testimony and the Gospel, each endeavor reinforced our commitment to serving the community. We are grateful for every open door, every new relationship, and every chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we encounter.
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