Actually it was very easy for me to become involved because I love to cook, therefore when the sign up sheet went up I decided to give it a try. When my husband and I entered the shelter the first time everyone welcomed us and helped to acquaint us to the process. We felt comfortable and appreciated by the volunteer coordinator. The biggest  blessing of all was when I was asked to take over as coordinator of the dinners for our church. I was honestly trying to find ways to serve and praise God He provided this opportunity. Fortunately my husband helps me and is involved as well. We get to do it together.

It gives me great pleasure to see others being blessed through this ministry. I feel I'm very important to those we provide the meals for and I do my best to prepare very healthy meals. I think I speak for everyone involved when I say we feel blessed to be a blessing. Many of the men tell me how appreciative they are for all we do for them.

I've made some new friends through serving in this ministry and have developed stronger connections

I feel that I'm growing spiritually since beginning serving in this ministry. What comes into my mind is when Jesus washed the feet of the disciples. He came to serve...not to be served. This ministry has helped me to have a deeper love and empathy for those less fortunate and those who are marginalized by our society. Serving has made me realize that I want to strive to be the hands and feet of our Lord. I pray that many others will come along side of me/us and decide to embrace the opportunities with this ministry.

The Streets of Hope Ministry is truly a Godsend for many people who would otherwise be relegated to life on the street. Through the efforts of the members of various local churches, civic groups, food banks, restaurants which give back a portion of the sales on designated days, etc at least 16 men at any given time during the shelter season can be loved on and cared for in many ways. Food, hot meals, beds, clothing, toiletries, spiritual encouragement, fellowship, help preparing for job interviews and assistance finding more permanent housing are some of the blessing provided for our men.

I am Barbara Wood, current coordinator of VVBC for meals and volunteering for the Streets of Hope Men's Shelter. For more information or to join our group call or text me 410-370-5403. We would love to have you!

FAQ

Where is the shelter? Currently we don't have a permanent location, therefore the shelter moves around (usually monthly) and is housed in various churches in the Essex, Middle River, Dundalk area.

How do I get involved? We post all information for each time we serve in terms of location, time, and the menu around two weeks before our serve day which has been the 28th of each month.

Do I have to make a commitment to serve every month? No, definitely not. You may serve at one meal or as many as you wish. We always accept cash donations to defray the cost of the dinners.

What time do we arrive at the shelter? The shelter is a cold weather shelter and therefore it is opened from 6pm-7am. We arrive as they are opening the doors 6pm and begin setting up for dinner. Dinner is usually served about 6:15pm.

Do you ever have activities during or after the meal? Yes, sometimes there are games but always time for fellowship. I hope next year we will have incorporate Christian music into the evening.

How do I dress? Come as you are...sweats, jeans...comfortable clothing.