Convoy of Hope offers free food and services to 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 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 where free food and services will be offered to each guest, “no questions asked.” A free hot meal will be served and free groceries will be distributed. There also will be free haircuts, free 8-by-10 family portraits, free medical and dental screenings, job assistance, community services and entertainment. A Kids Zone will offer inflatables, games and more giveaways.

“We have 1,800 pair of women’s shoes and 1,200 pair of children’s shoes to give away,” Andreasen said. “And, of course, there will be prayer in the Connections Tent. That’s an important part of it.

“We will need 750 to 800 volunteers to serve 4,000-plus people. We have buses coming in from East St. Louis and Washington Park and all over the metro-east. It’s important to know three things: Giveaways are while supplies last. No ID is required, lots of people ask that. And it will be held rain or shine.”

The Faith House in O’Fallon, in partnetship with the Convoy of Hope, will offer a free clothing giveaway in the parking lot at Lincoln Highway and U.S. 50, across the street from the park. The Rev. Willie D. Brown and the Rev. Richard Garnett are coordinating the clothing giveaway.

This story was originally published August 12, 2015 at 5:43 AM with the headline "Convoy of Hope offers free food and services to needy."