When preparing for our weekly communications with you, our beloved members & guests, we often discuss how best to connect. We evaluate all our offerings: hospitality, faith-based classes, groups, and service projects. Andre House has been a mission partner of Pinnacle Presbyterian for many, many years. We have a fantastic liaison and each month we promote four volunteer shifts, three days per month (first Tuesday, second Sunday, and fourth Saturday. These reminders are shared in both our weekly OCL (Our Common Life) and our Weekly E-Blast.
So, like you, our staff is used to seeing these requests and often overlooks the need. But, in June, we decided that as a staff, we would spend an afternoon serving. We were allowed to reserve 8 spots vs our typical 4, and we carpooled to 11th Ave and Jackson in downtown Phoenix on Tuesday, Aug 2.
We learned so much - and shared so much - and gained so much. I hope you stop a staff member and gain their perspective as well. I wanted to be sure to share a few highlights from my experience:
Did you know 1,400 men and women live on the streets, in tents, in a 4-block radius of Jackson and 11th Ave?
Did you know that these ‘clients’ use Andre House as their physical address?
Did you know that Andre House serves one meal each day, the evening meal, and the same menu is served each week, so their guests know what to expect?
Did you know that 85% of these homeless are men, (size 30-36) who are in desperate need of shoes, underwear, and socks?
Did you know that Andre House has a FULL basement of donations that desperately needs sorted and moved to the ‘store’ upstairs so clients can shop for items?
Did you know that Brophy High School students serve almost every day feeling confident, safe, and with smiles on their faces, even though some of what they see is so hard to understand?
And finally, did you know that they need you? Whatever physical means you have, they’ll find a spot for you. Bring your love and I promise you will gain much more than you share.
Take the time and sign up today. Email: andrehouse@pinnaclepres.org and Ms. Stephanie will give you all the details.
