Two Weeks of Warmth!

Serving our guests dinner with the help from Chicken Shack!

​When community comes together it really makes a difference! During the first 2 weeks of March (4th – 18th) the First Presbyterian Church of Warren partnered with the Islamic Organization of North America to house homeless guests from all over Macomb County with the Macomb County Warming Center. But the partnership was more than just the 2 religious organizations. Community restaurants, schools, grocery stores and markets volunteered food and more than 1,000 hours of time and over 2,500 meals we served during the 2 weeks. Our homeless guests came in every night at 7:00 pm, ate a hot dinner, and were given a warm place to sleep for the night.  Then after a quick breakfast and by 7:00 am they are on their way.  
 
Here are what some of our guests shared in our guest book:
 
“I have not been homeless for long, (3 months) but the hospitality that I have received by this church and all of the volunteers has been phenomenal to say the least.  As hard as it has been for me dealing with my situation, I have, or shall I say, I am at peace of mind knowing that there are still people out there, that care about the homeless population and their welfare.”
 
“Due to no fault of my own, I unexpectedly became homeless.  I had no family or friends who could take me in.  I sat at bus stops at night, and slept at the library during the day before work.  When winter came, I hesitantly sought out a warming center.  I was terrified.  Much to my surprise, I felt safe.  The people were welcoming and kind.  The food was delicious, and I was warm.  If not for this place, I would have frozen to death at a bus stop.  God bless this program!”
 
 
We are so grateful for the community that made this life-saving program possible!  Here are a list of our partners:
 
 
Interfaith Partners:
Islamic Organization of North America
St. Louise de Marillac Catholic Church
Msjid Al-Furqan
Celtic Cross Presbyterian Church
American Islamic Community Center
Islamic Association of Greater Detroit
American Muslim Diversity Association
 
Community Partners:
Bismillah Kabob N Curry Café
Cedars Bakery
Chicken Shakc
Country Oven
Dream Market
Donut Castle
Fit Turf Lawn and Tree Care
Ishtar Restaurant
Kabob Eden
Kroger Grocery Store
Lowes Home Improvement
Mike’s Kabob Grille
Mott High School
Mr. Miguel’s Mexican Cantina
NU New York Deli
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Penn Station East Coast Subs, Madison Heights and Sterling Heights
Royal Kabob Restaurant
Salvatore Pizza Burgers and More
Sam’s Club
Villa Carpets
Wing Stop
 

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