November 15, 2005 > Feeding the homeless this winter

by Laura Johnson

The Fremont Christian School, Harbor Light Assembly of God and St. James Episcopal Church are just some of the organizations coming together to support the Tri-City Homeless Coalition's (TCHC) "Winter Relief Emergency Shelter Program," which provides meals and shelter to the Tri-City Area's homeless.

The students of Fremont Christian School will prepare weekday lunches, Harbor Light Assembly's girls club and senior citizen groups will prepare weekend meals and the St. James Episcopal Church will provide shelter to those in need this winter.

"Our Winter Relief Program meets the needs of many families who for the winter months would be spending their nights in their cars," said Ron Macciola, associate pastor at Harbor Light Assembly of God. "The Fremont Christian School and Harbor Light Assembly of God are thrilled to be a part of this awesome outreach."

In its 5th year, the Winter Relief Emergency Shelter Program grew out of the need of families who were on the waiting list for Sunrise Village Homeless Shelter, Fremont. As the waiting list continued to grow to over 102 families in August 2001, community leaders met with TCHC staff to discuss how to help those families get through the cold and wet winter months.

The program is continuing even though funding this year is not secure. After four years of budget cuts in the public sector and reduced foundation grants, TCHC is exploring new avenues of fund-raising.

"The practice of service and graciousness in our community are integral elements in education that we hope to provide at Fremont Christian School," said FCS Principal Tricia Meyer. The homeless in the Tri-City area will receive shelter and three meals every day this winter.

For further information and to learn how you can get your community organization or club involved, please call Mary Ellen Gallagher at (510) 657-7409 x203.