Working with the community to help feed the homeless is a powerful way to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Not only does it provide essential sustenance and nourishment, but it also fosters a sense of connection, dignity, and belonging among individuals who are often marginalized and overlooked.
I was so lucky to get the opportunity to volunteer with this amazing nonprofit.
The people who came were all thankful for the hot meals, drinks, and essentials that we pass out.
There was a look of gratitude in these neighbors' eyes to be fully seen and still shown respect by others.
I feel as though I got more out of the day than any of the people I helped to serve.
Even though I had some moments of sadness and overwhelm for the situation our neighbors are in, I felt blessed to have what I have and to have a heart to help as much as I can. I refused to take anything for granted.
I stood in my own way and didn't allow myself to connect with any of them deeper, which I regret. I observed how close their community is and should have allowed myself to ask questions and learn more about them.
They keep each other in line, protect those who help them, and some stick together as they wonder. the streets of our big city.
Next time you pass one of our houseless neighbors please show them kindness and empathy, even if it's just a smile and wave.
Now after explaining my experience to you, I'd love to share about the wonderful owner and business that make this all possible to help.
Tracey Porter is a wonderful woman who let her heart make a decision one day. She saw a need and decided that whatever it took she was going to fill it.
With Tracey it's all about connection, no matter where we are in our walk of life, we all need some help, and solidarity when it comes to our physical, emotional, and mental health needs.
She has this fun-ness about her, you want to talk with her and be around her. You immediately trust her and want to be a part of whatever it is she is working to accomplish.
Here's out Q & A that we did together as to fully understand her views and how these people, all of them, the volunteers and neighbors alike, are impacted by her decision to do something.
Why did you start your nonprofit?
In 2020, we were interested in helping our small business community by bringing a food truck to our neighborhood. I sought the approval of our HOA and they responded with a "no" as they thought the neighbors would complain about a food truck being in the neighborhood. My wife and I decided to hire two food trucks and partner with Westside CARES to support our small business community and in addition serve our neighbors experiencing houselessness a hot meal. After witnessing the appreciation from our unhoused neighbors, we had to continue the love.
How long did it take you from the point you came up with the idea until the execution of it?
A few hours to create a FB page, talk with Kristy Milligan with Westside CARES about partnering indefinitely to the following Monday serving a hot meal to our beloved neighbors. There were many hours after that with creating a logo, spreadsheets, apps to collect donations, etc.
What is the biggest need you see and need help filling?
Biggest need will always be monetary and in kind donations as that is what keeps us in business. I am currently looking for a marketing Volunteer as I can't keep up with it and we have gotten to a point where our community is steadily supporting FTAH but our mission is needed and we want to continue the work.
What is the youngest age you'd recommend accompanying their parents to volunteer?
I believe that is up to the parent. If it were my decision as a parent, I would want my child to be able to understand that our neighbors experiencing homelessness are not scary due to the way they look or act because of mental issues. I do believe with that being said, the earlier we introduce our children to the concept of helping those in need that we create a better future.
When you first started, how did you get the word out about where you were going to serve?
Because I partner with Westside CARES and they hold an address for our unhoused neighbors and many other resources, they already have about 80-100 persons that show up on Mondays. They also have an announcement board on the outside of their building where they have our schedule for the month.
As of today's date, what are the businesses that support you most?
- Westside Cares - they allow our nonprofit to serve outside on their property to be able to stay consistent in where to serve.
- These Girls Got Beef - The food truck who show up the most to provide the hot meals
- Jessica Warren with Amazon Donations - who we partner with to get some of the essentials to hand out, such as under wear, soaps, and other sanitary products.
- Crumbl Cookies - they make batches of cookies to hand out to the neighbors so they have a delicious treat to go with their meals.
- Beauty by Stacianne - her and her former student offer free haircuts to those who would like one that are there for the help.
If someone wanted to start a nonprofit what would you recommend they do first?
- Make sure that what you are wanting to do comes from your heart.
- Engage with other non-profits, their employees and volunteers in town that are smaller and/or a bit more established. I have been volunteering for many years and because of that I gained friends within in the non-profit world which allowed me to have a few mentors.
- Find a mentor within the non-profit community, not necessarily in the field of your non-profit as the knowledge that can be gained comes from many.
Do you give out the letters for donation write offs?
Yes, we do.
This organization brings dignity back to some of these houseless neighbors. The hot meals do wonders for their spirits especially in the cold months! The people who come for help now know, trust and depend on Tracey and her team!
