Lexington Church Group Hosts Easter Dinner and Clothing Giveaway for the Unhoused Community

LEXINGTON, Kentucky – An act of love and remembrance turned into an event of compassion and outreach as a dedicated team of volunteers gathered to provide an Easter dinner and clothing giveaway for the city’s unhoused population.

Remembering Lost Loved Ones, Helping Those in Need

For organizer Carolyn Givens of First Baptist Church Bracktown, this year’s event held extra significance. It served as a tribute to her son-in-law, Stephen Tevis, who passed away abruptly on August 16, 2022. The shock of his loss still lingers for Givens, but she finds solace in knowing his love for the community lives on through acts of kindness like this.

Taking a page from Tevis’s book – a known shoe fanatic – the group provided not only meals and items of clothing for their guests but also shoes in his honor. “We know he’s smiling down from Heaven,” shared Givens.

More Than Just a Meal

In addition to material provisions, those attending the event also had the opportunity to partake in a shared worship experience. Aiming to reach individuals who lack regular access to religious services, Givens and the team at First Baptist Church Bracktown ensure that every unhoused person has a spiritual haven to turn to. “We’re open every Sunday,” added Givens.

Young Volunteers Making a Difference

Among the many helping hands, the event also brought in young volunteers who dedicated their holiday to serve the community. Some, like 19-year-old Daisy Rojas, see their time as a gift to be used for the benefit of others.

Rojas reminds us that “God has given me this time and I should be using it to help others, instead of just being at home and not doing anything that’s going to help anybody.” Underscoring the importance of the day, Givens shared her joyous belief, “Easter is very special because Jesus rose and he rose for me, he rose for everybody.”

Serving the Community, and Beyond

The event successfully served over 125 Lexington locals, offering both tangible and spiritual sustenance to those in need. It was a day filled with compassion, community, and shared faith, all in honor of one man who left laughter, love, and too many pairs of shoes in his wake.

As communities across the country recognize and work towards addressing the growing issue of homelessness, such grassroots initiatives provide a beacon of hope, humanizing the unhoused and restoring dignity to those often overlooked by society.

Whilst we remember Stephen Tevis, let’s not forget the timeless lesson of love and giving that his memory encapsulates, inspiring us all to make a difference.

Easter is the celebration of new beginnings, and through their efforts, Carolyn Givens, Daisy Rojas, and the rest of the team gifted Lexington’s unhoused not just a meal, but hope for a better tomorrow.

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