LANCASTER – Hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, cakes, muffins, cookies and cool drinks were all on the menu at the Feed All Barbecue for the homeless Saturday at Jane Reynolds Park.
The 4th Annual Event was created by Garland House of Independent Living and provides free food, clothing and shoes to the Antelope Valley’s homeless population.
“We want to feed as many people as we can and provide clothing for them,” said Anita Lofton, Board Member of Garland House. “We want to let (the homeless) know that there is someone who cares about them and they are not alone, that there are resources for them within the community.”
Saturday’s event fed up to 200 people, however organizers were prepared for an even bigger turnout, so plenty of food and clothing were left over, which went to Goodwill. The event also included face painting and pop corn for the kids, karaoke, and raffle prizes from local sponsors, which went to the homeless only. A highlight of the Feed All Barbeque was when participants held hands to sing “Lean on Me.”
“We typed out the song ‘Lean on Me’ and we passed it around and they held hands and sang ‘Lean on Me,’” said Lofton. “My heart just melted and I literally cried.”
“I don’t care if you’re black, white, pink or purple, we all stood together as one. We told them that they should not be ashamed of their situation because everyone is going through it right now. We want them to lean on us and lean on each other.”
James Stouvenel says
God Bless them for what they are doing, feeding the homeless is a wonderful thing, and alot of unemployed are hurting right now, so having that at a park was a great idea, I hope they are able to do it again.