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Poland church distributes food at Covelli Center
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New Life Church members were excited to give back to the community during their “Goodness Invasion” food drive Aug. 18 at the Covelli Center.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Volunteers, Jennifer McDonald (left), Cassie Prejsnar (center) and Jessica Diez assisted during the "Goodness Invasion" food drive Aug. 18.
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Neighbors | Eartha Terrell.Larry Thomas (left) smiled from ear to ear as he got his face painted by Julie Puckett Aug. 18 during New Life Church of Poland “Goodness Invasion” food drive at the Covelli Center.
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More than 300 volunteers showed their support and donated their time during the New Life Church “Goodness Invasion” food drive Aug. 18.
By EARTHA TERRELL
Members of Poland New Life Church donated their time and effort to give back to the community during the third annual Food Drive at the Covelli Center in downtown Youngstown Aug. 18.
“It’s called the goodness invasion big food give out. We’re prepared for 3,000 families to receive produce and perishables. It’s been great. We’ve had 1,000 families come thorough and the Covelli Center has just been great. I think it’s important for people in the community, No. 1, to know that there are people who care about them. What may seem like a little to us is a lot for these families,” said Pastor Juan Rivera.
The event garnered the support from hundreds of local businesses and more than 300 volunteers from several churches and organizations who were excited to be able to help others in need.
“It makes me feel amazing to be able to share the love of Jesus with them and put a smile on their faces. This is my love. This is my passion. I love making people smile and making them feel like they’re worth living for,” said volunteer Nicole McMaster.
According to Rivera, the food drive catered to people from all walks of life.
“Some are the working poor and some people have jobs, but things get tight. A lot of kids are going back to school and we can help save money for those families,” Rivera said.