Convoy of Hope recently held seven distribution events, in seven cities across the country, in seven days. These events were made possible by local community leaders and partners, including NFL teams, current and former NFL players, and churches.
Throughout Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Providence, Convoy of Hope staff, volunteers, and partners provided groceries, shoes, socks, and other resources to community members in need. The event brought more than 200,000 pounds of products to approximately 7,500 families across the United States.
“It’s just a great thing to do as a family,” said former New England Patriots tight end Benjamin Watson. He and his family filled grocery bags and handed supplies to attendees despite the cold snap in Atlanta. “Opportunities where we can serve as a family are something that we want to continue to do,” added Benjamin’s wife, Kirsten. “We encourage everyone to do that.”
Bruce Deel, founder of Convoy of Hope community partner City of Refuge, spent the day going from door to door while handing out shoes, socks, groceries, and other supplies. Although his community struggles with crime and poverty, he is determined to spread hope to those in need.
“I founded City of Refuge [about] 25 years ago this summer,” Bruce said. “And I do it every day because it’s my purpose in life, and because it gives me great joy to see somebody that doesn’t have any hope for the future to see light, hope, and transformation take place in their life. And to know that we’re having a generational impact makes it worth it all.”
In addition to on-site distributions, Convoy of Hope provided groceries and other supplies to local food banks and other organizations that will continue providing long-term help in their communities after the events conclude.
The Denver Dream Center, Pro Athlete Outreach, Concord Church in Dallas, Trinity Life Church in Las Vegas, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Derek Carrier and Zay Jones of the Las Vegas Raiders, three-time Super Bowl champion Matt Slater of the New England Patriots, and other NFL players and community leaders partnered with Convoy of Hope throughout this series of events.
Convoy of Hope is grateful for the partners, volunteers, and supporters who make events like these possible. Together, we will continue to spread hope for the duration of 2022.
To learn more about Convoy Nation, a fanbase of kindness with Convoy of Hope, click here.
