More than 50 homeless individuals normally served through the Urban Ministry Center (UMC) were fed recently during the second annual potluck luncheon hosted by UNC Charlotte Center City.
“Faculty and staff members brought in savory and sweet home-cooked items for our neighbors at the Urban Ministry Center,” said Donell Stines-Jones, community outreach coordinator at UNC Charlotte Center City. She added employees volunteered to serve attendees, and area businesses were solicited for donations of toiletries and clothing items, such as soap, shampoo and socks.
The luncheon was held in the UNC Charlotte Center City atrium with Voices of Eden and the Urban Ministry’s Voices of Love providing entertainment.
A UMC representative expressed appreciation for the event. “Thank you for the wonderful feast. I know the neighbors appreciated it so much. It was so nice to see them relaxing, conversing with new friends, and of course, enjoying the fantastic meal. I had more than a few people ask me, ‘Why? What is this for?’ They were in disbelief that strangers would do something so nice for them. Though, it wasn't the food that convinced them. It was the clear thought and effort you put into hosting us, and the time that was given, not just in service, but simple acknowledgement and conversation.”