Community Corner
Chicago Heights SOUP Center: The Things We Do For Love
The Mosby family shares their love through serving the disadvantaged at the SOUP Center.
With the week of Valentine's Day here, many couples are celebrate the day of love, honoring a partner or spouse with candy, flowers and gifts from the heart.
At the SOUP center in Chicago Heights, everyday is Valentine's Day. It's not surprising to see the Rev. Walter Mosby handing a few dollars to someone pushing a cart along the street. He has hugs for those waiting in line for food at his church, . It is his love for the poor and disadvantaged that makes this man a Valentine to the homeless.
"My uncle, Pastor Walter Mosby, has a heart of gold and I'm here to make sure it stays polished," says nephew Wendell Mosby.
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As men and women got out of the cold, their was a cup of coffee and hugs waiting for them at the SOUP center. It was the vision of Mosby and his family.
"Since as long as I can remember, starting with my grandmother June Mosby, my family has always been about helping out in community." Wendell Mosby adds.
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Feeding and helping out about 400 people a week–mostly homeless–the SOUP center relies strictly on donations. There are no government grants or programs assisting the SOUP center.
The Mosbys are asking Patch readers to help others this Valentine's week and all through the year by donating something to the SOUP center.
"The SOUP Center is supported by Greater Faith," adds Mosby. "It's a real small congregation doing big things without much financial support."
Last week, Calvary Church in Orland Park collected coats and blankets for those cold and needing some warmth. They brought them by the SOUP Center.
"These came at just the right time", says Mosby.
Wendell Mosby put together a needs list. If it's in your heart, start a food drive, drop off some clothes, volunteer and give some time to those who are trying to get off the streets.
SOUP center can use food as well as coffee products such as creamer, coffee, stirrers and plastic cups. Also needed are paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, napkins along with plastic forks, spoons and knives. If you want to help financially, checks can be made out to the SOUP Center.
For more information people can visit the Greater Faith's Website or call Lucille at 312-841-7687.
