by Katie Gee, Lee University
posted May 8, 2008
Lee University students have been volunteering in a feeding ministry reaching out into the Cleveland community. Created three years ago by Lee graduate Aaron Scaggs, the “Crossover” program provides groceries and fellowship to East Cleveland residents in need.
“It’s really not about the food, but the relationships you make with the people there,” Mandy Panos, Lee junior and Crossover volunteer said.
Crossover meets on Saturdays at 9 a.m. on campus and typically lasts until about 1 p.m. Students load up vehicles with groceries donated by Bi-Lo and Cooke’s Food Store, as well as any leftover food at the Lee food bank.
There are between 10-40 student volunteers each week and they break up into five different routes, including a Spanish-speaking route. These paths have been created as the ministry has grown through connections with the families served and relationships built over the course of the program. The volunteers go where there is a need.
“It’s not supposed to be charity, but it is what Christians are called to do. Many of the people we help have health issues or have no family to care for them. We also help a lot of single moms. Some people that we pray with and visit take pictures and even call us their kids,” said Ms. Panos.
Crossover volunteers provide any type of help the Cleveland residents may need. They not only offer food, but build lasting friendships. Students visit residents in the hospital, babysit their children, or even take a person fighting addiction to a rehabilitation center.
“Crossover is motivating for both those we help and for us. I’ve seen people wanting to rise above their situation because students cared enough to help them. This has completely opened my eyes to the reality of life,” said Ms. Panos.
Although Crossover is a relatively new ministry, Lee students are confident that it will flourish for years to come.
“I think Crossover will continue. There are so many students that are devoted and passionate about the cause. God is working visibly, so I feel like Crossover will continue,” said Ms. Panos.
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