We are an outreach ministry of the West Asheville Church of that takes the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed to the homeless and needy on streets of Asheville. It is our hope to help these individuals take the steps to find their God given purpose and become fruitful and productive in their lives. That process might begin by a simple meal for a hungry soul.
Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you. Hosea 10:12
Our Mission statement is three fold
- Cultivating compassion and showing mercy to those who may feel unloved, undesirable, and unwanted - (John 3:17)
- To become the face of love in action, bringing hope and healing to the homeless, the needy, and the poor. (John 3:16)
- Dedicated to serving our community by reaching out in practical ways providing food, clothing, and basic needs. (Matthew 25: 35-40)
The homeless population in Asheville on January 30, 2008 was estimated to be about 509 people as concluded from a survey conducted the Homeless Coalition and its volunteers as stated the Mountain Express in its April 9, 2008 issue. Of these homeless 121 were veterans, 181 were categorized as chronic homeless, 158 suffered from mental illness, 124 were chronic substance abusers, and 45were driven out by domestic violence. The article states that some overlap was possible among the numbers, because the same person could be in more than one category. The article also states that this number is expected to rise as the economic conditions worsen. This information helps put bring us see that these are real people who by circumstance or choices have found themselves in an unfortunate situation. There are many of us who could quickly find ourselves in a similar situation if not for the love and help of our friends and family.
On the 3rd Saturday of each month at 11:00 AM we provide a “Street Feed” in the parking lot south of the bus station on Coxe Avenue in downtown Asheville North Carolina. It is open to anyone wanting to partake. Our outreach team ministers to the physical need by serving a hot meal. We also provide clothing and blankets when possible. We minister to the spiritual need though scripture, music, drama, and prayer.