HARLINGEN — Loaves & Fishes has always been that place where anyone could go for a hot meal.
For 25 years, the shelter has grown and has served thousands. For 25 years, Loaves & Fishes has fed the community.
Whenever there is a hungry person, Loaves & Fishes is there to feed and house them, no questions asked and no judgment, said Executive Director Bill Reagan.
This Saturday is cause for celebration and thanks for those 25 years of service with a special event in Gutierrez Park.
The entire community is invited and encouraged to attend.
The event will begin at 6 p.m. There will be food, fellowship and fun for everyone in attendance.
Local praise bands will also perform.
At 7 p.m., Reagan said there will be a recognition ceremony for two of Loaves & Fishes former clients.
“These people have gotten on their feet. They exemplify what we are trying to do,” Reagan said.
Loaves & Fishes is a homeless shelter that also provides meals, job training, emergency assistance and a lot more for those in need.
The shelter is one of those few organizations that cut across every ethnic, cultural and socio-economic barrier.
Hunger and homelessness are not race or class specific.
Most Americans are about two paychecks or a serious illness away from the reality most of our clients face every day, Reagan said.
Winter Texans and local residents volunteer in the kitchen to serve meals “no questions asked” to anyone who asks for a plate of food.
Churches of every and no denomination cooperate in our work to help the vulnerable in our community, Reagan said.
Businesses and government support the efforts to stabilize the lives of those who are in trouble.
The shelter accomplishes its mission through The Bread of Life Dining Hall, the Open Arms Homeless Shelter, the New Hope Job Shop, Great Physician Healthy Living, Family Emergency Assistance and our AEP Weatherization Program.
“We are very grateful to have the support of the community and very fortunate to have strong moral and financial support,” Reagan said.
