Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. With Nationwide Events

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The time is always right to do what is right.”

This year, in honor of Dr. King and in the spirit of his legacy, Convoy of Hope hosted multiple distribution events around the country. These events brought communities together, provided help to those in need, and empowered others to continue doing what is right.

Over the holiday weekend, Convoy served people in Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Providence, Rhode Island. Convoy team members and partners — including NFL teams, former football players, and churches — helped distribute groceries, shoes, socks, and more to families in need.

“I’m very grateful. This is a big help,” said Roxanne Kelley, who attended the event in Las Vegas. Roxanne commented that her shoes were getting worn out and the price of necessities like food had been a burden on her family. She left the event with shoes, socks, and groceries. “I’m getting blessings for me and my family and honoring this special day,” she said.

“We’ve been struggling ever since COVID hit, and it’s just been hard. And this right here helps so much,” said Jessica Smith as tears rolled down her face. “It takes a burden off of my chest to get this kind of help. It really does.” Jessica attended the event with four of her children. They left with their needs met and their hearts full. “Y’all really came through. I really appreciate you. God bless you all for this.”

Zay Jones (Las Vegas Raiders), Derek Carrier (Las Vegas Raiders), and Matt Slater (New England Patriots) led volunteer groups in their communities, as did former NFL players Matt Forte (Chicago Bears) and Benjamin Watson (New England Patriots). The football stars distributed resources as attendees eagerly lined up for autographs and photos.

“I think it’s just an incredible opportunity to honor the legacy of someone that had such a profound impact,” said Derek Carrier, speaking of Dr. King.

“To be out here with these people, they don’t know how much they’re helping us as well,” added Zay Jones. “To give to them means the world to me. It’s truly special to share this day with Derek Carrier and Convoy of Hope. It brings a joy to my heart to be able to do something like this.”

Former New England Patriot, Benjamin Watson, attended Convoy’s distribution event in Atlanta with his wife and children. “It’s just a great thing to do as a family, to see the kids actually get in action.”

Convoy also supplied local nonprofits with resources that can be distributed after today’s events conclude, providing long-term help to communities through partnership.

Serving those in need is always the right thing to do. This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Convoy of Hope is proud to partner with others who are determined to keep Dr. King’s legacy alive by doing good and spreading hope.