The 150,000-square-foot Compassion Coalition warehouse in Frankfort is a lot to take in, but it’s a reflection of the growing need Compassion Coalition meets. They’re making a special donation as well, aiding Brown Memorial United Methodist Church in its work in Syracuse to feed and clothe those who need help.
“A lot of the people that come and come in with children who have no socks, no shoes, no coats for winter,” said Robin Lee Hare, a volunteer at Brown Memorial.
“… [W]hat they were doing … fits right into our mission. We wanted to help,” said Mike Servello, the founder/CEO of Compassion Coalition, on Brown Memorial’s work.
Church leaders from Brown Memorial were invited to Compassion Coalition’s warehouse to take what their community needs. Thousands of dollars’ worth of items were grabbed.
“We have to have people to have their dignity restored, people who have had that taken from them,” said Nola Anderson, pastor at Brown Memorial.
Volunteers drove the trucks back to Brown Memorial, and unloaded the many boxes of donations. Underwear, socks and personal hygiene items were some of the most valuable donations Brown brought back to Syracuse.
“I’m sure a lot of families will be smiling in the next couple of days as they receive these beautiful items, these gifts,” said Anderson.
While Brown Memorial receives food from the food bank and grocery stores, it can’t get things like coffee makers, crock pots and fans.
“Some people may consider it as a luxury item, but I think it’s something that would really, boost the morale of the people in this neighborhood,” said Anderson.
Brown Memorial officials say they hope this is the beginning of a new partnership with Compassion Coalition to fill Syracuse’s needs.