Apr 18, 20232 min read

Oliver Gospel Relies on the Community to Help Provide Meals and Miracles

Ministry partners will be recognized during National Volunteer Week

“We’re so very grateful for all of our donors and volunteers – individuals, churches, businesses, and civic organizations alike – who enable our ministry to be a place where miracles happen on a daily basis.” –Christian Albertsen, Community Engagement Coordinator

COLUMBIA, SC — At Oliver Gospel, a plate of hot, nutritious food can be the first step toward a new beginning for neighbors who are hungry and struggling with life’s challenges.

“A meal is something people often take for granted,” said Community Engagement Coordinator Christian Albertsen. “But from our many years of assisting men, women, and children who are homeless and hurting, we know that as their hunger subsides and their physical burdens are relieved, they can open their hearts to hope and find the strength they need to turn their lives around.”

It costs $2.17 to provide a meal – and opportunities for a miracle – for each of the more than 200 individuals who come through the Mission’s door each day. Financial gifts from the community enable the ministry to provide food, shelter, faith-based recovery, adult education and vocational training all year round, empowering people to build lives of meaning and purpose.

In addition to financial donations, the Mission also relies on gifts of time and compassion from volunteers who help with meals and provide vital resources and services the Mission couldn’t otherwise offer to their guests. The Mission will recognize and thank their volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 17-21.

“We’re so very grateful for all of our donors and volunteers – individuals, churches, businesses, and civic organizations alike – who enable our ministry to be a place where miracles happen on a daily basis,” Albertsen said. “Their continued support truly blesses those we serve.”

To make a gift to provide meals and miracles – or to learn more about the Mission’s many volunteer opportunities – visit olivergospel.org. Additional information about Mission activities and year-round programs and services are available on the site as well. To follow along for National Volunteer week, follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Oliver Gospel is a community-based mission that helps those experiencing homelessness, poverty, or addiction transform their lives through physical, spiritual, and relational support to lead full, healthy lives.

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