Big Changes! Easter Outreach To Small Things
Ministry Update
I have an exciting update for all of you. With much help and counsel, I have decided to launch Easter Outreach into a year-round nonprofit organization that addresses food insecurity and poverty across the Philadelphia region. This decision will enable us to serve more people more effectively, with an even greater impact. We will now be working all year long to address food insecurity!
Our new name is Small Things because we believe this is how change happens—each act of service matters. Every box packed, meal served, and relationship created can lead to a lasting impact on a person’s life. I wrote a letter explaining this transition that you can read on our new website: smallthingsphilly.org/stories.
We launched our new name and mission in a virtual celebration that we’d love for you to watch here: https://vimeo.com/472739688/f523d26233.
How does this change my role with the Liberti Network and Emmanuel, the homeless ministry operating out of Liberti Center City? The good news is I will still be deeply involved in these ministries. With the Liberti Network, I will still be a missionary, part of the leadership team, and serve as its Director of Mercy and Justice.
My goal is to develop a partnership between Small Things and Emmanuel so I can continue to lead and serve our homeless friends in Center City. I see more potential and partnerships here that could address homelessness and food insecurity in Center City Philadelphia.
I’m grateful to those who have provided monthly support for my role as Director of Mercy for the Liberti Network. That work and my need for that support continue. But as I take on a broader role with Small Things, my hope and prayer are that the support grows from a wider base that enables Small Things to bring big changes to people throughout the region.
I would love for you to come and serve with us and check out our brand-new volunteer platform. Log onto app.vomo.org/smallthings and see all the ways you can serve (use code “SMALL THINGS to sign up)! Among other opportunities is the annual Thanksgiving Day Breakfast we will be hosting with Liberti Center City for our friends experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. We’re keeping it safe by closing the 1600 block of Sansom Street so we can serve our guests outside. We need plenty of help cooking inside and promise to follow all safety protocols.
Personal Note
The family is overall going well. Seraphina just turned 1 and is walking. Abrielle is full of energy and loves life. The pandemic has been really difficult for our family. Our kids, especially Abrielle, really wants to be around people and really other kids. Some days it is really sad; she will ask dad when will the coronavirus go away so we can see people. She is wired just like me and loves people and wants to engage as much as possible.
This season has been really difficult in this regard. In light of everything, Halloween was a gift and gave us a little reprieve. Our community had tables at the end of driveways and everyone had a mask on. It was a new kind of normal. The girls were dressed up as cowgirls and we got to walk around and talk to people. For a moment the world almost felt normal again. We even sat in the driveway with our neighbors around a fire pit. It was a good night and I cherish these types of nights with Amrah and the girls.
Prayer Requests
Pray for me, Amrah, and the Girls to continue to find ways to get rest and enjoyment during this time.
Pray for all the volunteers who are sacrificing so much in the service of others in their community.
Pray for people to continue to support my ministry and family on a monthly basis.
