Community Cookout Provides for Poor

The Black Ministerial Alliance of New Britain and the Friendship Center held a cookout for the less fortunate on Memorial Day weekend.

Pastor Gervais Barger, Sr. says that, on Saturday, “the Black Ministerial Alliance of New Britain partnered with the Friendship Center to feed those less fortunate.”

“While most people with means decided to use Labor Day weekend to take their last family vacation for the summer,” said Rev. Barger, “we decided to use this occasion to accommodate and serve those who have no chance of taking a vacation of any kind.”

The event was held in the parking lot behind the Friendship Center on Arch Street. Rev. Brian K. Riley, Pastor Dana Smith and other volunteers set up tables and provided food to those less fortunate.

“We also gave out care packages filled with personal care items and raffled off kids games, T-shirts, blankets, and socks.” Rev. Barger said, adding that, “We also took the time to ask each participant to fill out a short survey to ask them what their greatest needs are. Instead of always assuming we know what they want, we asked them to get an accurate idea of how to best serve their future needs.”

Rev. Barger noted,

Jesus said, “The poor you will have always.” And the 25th chapter of Matthew makes clear our mandate as men and woman of faith! Just going to the church building on Sunday morning for worship is important, but it is not all we are called to. Amen somebody!

“We feel the event was a raving success!” added Rev. Barger. “Our hope is that other Churches and Civic organizations will see what we are doing to make our City a better place and come long side us in the future.”