SE Valley Times

Loaves and Fishes volunteers recently extended a warm welcome and served a delicious hot meal to residents at Sue's Espacio shelter in Tempe, Arizona. The volunteers, known for their dedicated grassroots efforts, provided a hearty dinner to nearly 40 residents, including children, with smiles and friendly greetings ensuring that no one went hungry that night.

Patt Mitchell, who organized the meal along with her husband Gary, expressed the importance of their service, stating, "We're church goers who feel this is an important part of our lives. We feel it is important to share what we have been given."

The event marked a new partnership between Loaves and Fishes and the City of Tempe to provide meals at the city-owned shelter, showcasing the impact of community collaborations in changing lives. Tim Burch, Community Health and Human Services Director, highlighted the city's investments in housing and resources, emphasizing the positive outcomes for individuals and families in need.

Councilmember Doreen Garlid, who facilitated the connection with the Mitchells to serve at Sue's Espacio, commended the volunteers for their dedication, stating, "All of the Loaves and Fishes volunteers put their hearts into creating a beautiful night of fellowship and service that was incredibly uplifting."

Longtime volunteer Benny Jetson expressed his satisfaction in providing meals for the shelter residents, noting a desire to bring back the communal feeling of sharing meals together in future services. Shelter resident Keith, who experienced homelessness but now has stable employment and housing plans, shared his excitement about returning to his own kitchen to cook his favorite dishes.

The City of Tempe encourages community members and organizations to support those experiencing homelessness through various initiatives, such as volunteering with the HOPE team or donating to organizations like Tempe Community Action Agency. The city's goal is to make homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time occurrence, with ongoing efforts to provide shelter, resources, and support to those in need.

For those interested in getting involved or learning more about assisting individuals experiencing homelessness in Tempe, relevant resources and opportunities for support are available through the city's programs and partner organizations.