Convoy of Hope in O’Fallon will help needy

With the support of 48 area churches, businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations, Convoy of Hope Metro East will distribute food, supplies and services to people in need on Saturday, Aug. 15, at O’Fallon City Park.

“This is an exciting opportunity for metro-east residents to experience a poverty-free day filled with fun, free groceries and vital services,” said the Rev. Donald Andreasen, pastor of O’Fallon Assembly of God and local coordinator of the event. “It’s also an incredible opportunity for neighbors to help neighbors.”

Tents will be set up in the park and a free hot meal, giveaways, services, a kids zone and entertainment will be available.

“We will need 750 to 800 volunteers to serve 4,000-plus people,” Andreasean said. “We have buses coming from East St. Louis and Washington Park and all over the metro-east.”

It’s important to know three things, Andreasen said. “Giveaways are while supplies last. No ID is required, lots of people ask that. And it will be held rain or shine.”

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15.

Where: O’Fallon Community Park, 308 E. 5th St., O’Fallon

What: Free food and services for each guest, no questions asked. Free on-site meal, free 8-by-10 family portraits, free haircuts, free groceries, free medical and dental screenings, job assistance, community services, entertainment and prayer in the Connections Tent. Clothing and 1,800 pairs of women’s shoes and 1,200 pairs of children’s shoes will be given away.

Kids Zone: Games, inflatables and more giveaways.

Information: Call Pastor Donald Andreasen at 618-632-5584 or visit www.convoyofhope.org/outreach/metroeast/

This story was originally published August 7, 2015 at 11:52 AM with the headline "Convoy of Hope in O’Fallon will help needy."