Richmond, VA – As the holiday season approaches, many people are finding ways to give back to their community. In the Tri-Cities area, a local shelter is relying on the support of volunteers to provide warm meals for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The City of Hopewell operates the only city-run shelter in the area, but it does not offer meals to its residents. Recognizing the need, Beacon Hill Church stepped in to fill the gap by creating a “Meal Train,” a program where community members sign up to prepare and deliver home-cooked meals to the shelter each night at 6 p.m.
Pastor Michael Moore of Beacon Hill Church explained the initiative’s impact. “We created this Meal Train so people can sign up to bring a meal and drop it off at the shelter, ensuring that residents have a warm meal each evening,” Moore said. Since November, businesses, civic groups, churches, and families have come together to provide consistent meals for those staying at the shelter.
The residents of the Hopewell Shelter are especially grateful for the meals. Samantha, one of the shelter’s residents, expressed how much the meals mean to her. “For me to have a warm place to stay, plus a warm meal, it means a lot,” she said.
Michael Simmonds, another resident, echoed her sentiment. “To see someone actually doing something that cares for the community, to help people, it’s an encouragement and a blessing, so I thank them,” he said.
The Hopewell Shelter, which stays open until March 15, 2025, currently accommodates between 20 and 25 people each night. With cold winter nights ahead, ensuring that these individuals have access to a hot meal is crucial, especially since they must leave the shelter during the day. The Meal Train has become a vital resource, helping to provide at least one solid meal per day to residents.
Moore emphasized that the effort goes beyond religious faith; it’s about helping those in need. “This is not just about faith; this is about being human and helping people in need,” Moore said.
Local businesses are also joining the cause. A Virginia restaurant recently committed to providing meals every Thursday, offering a steady contribution to the program. Arnold Boone, a shelter worker, shared his appreciation for the effort. “It’s very heartfelt. The homeless people definitely appreciate it,” Boone said.
As the shelter’s seasonal closure date of March 15 approaches, Moore urged the community to continue supporting the Meal Train. There are still several days available this year for people to sign up and contribute, ensuring that the shelter’s residents continue to receive nourishment throughout the winter.
For those interested in helping, Pastor Moore encouraged them to get involved by preparing a meal and dropping it off at the shelter. “It’s a simple but meaningful way to make a difference in someone’s life,” Moore said. As the community continues to come together, the Meal Train serves as a testament to the power of collective kindness and compassion during the holiday season.
