EVERETT — Some just come for a hot meal. Others, to nurture their faith.
But most people who attend the Life Changes Ministry dinner for homeless and low-income people come looking for companionship.
Stephen Browning, 56, has enjoyed good food and good company at the church in Everett’s Riverside neighborhood for several years now.
“I live by myself. It gets me out of my apartment,” Browning said.
Browning arrived early July 11 to get his hair cut by Sandi Larson, who is in charge of the weekend dinners.
About 80 people come to the dinner each Saturday and Sunday, she said. Most are regulars. Everyone is welcome, no matter their faith.
“The church likes to let them know that God loves them no matter what,” Larson said.
Life Changes Ministry also puts together “Queen, It’s a New Day,” an annual event that seeks to change the lives of women who are homeless, battered or recovering addicts.
The church has a housing program for men and women in recovery.
Volunteers from other churches help sponsor and serve the dinners.
People are first brought to the church’s doorstep by hunger and then form friendships and turn their lives around, Larson said.
Serving dinner to people in need is very rewarding. “It gives me joy,” Larson said, “knowing that I filled someone’s stomach.”
Larson met many incredible people at the church over the years. Her American sign language skills helped reach out to people who can’t hear.
Larson feeds people from all over Snohomish County. She said she would like more people from the neighborhood to visit the church or just to help with the dinners.
Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452, kyefimova@heraldnet.com.
Want to help?
Meat, coffee, sugar and cream always are needed. Monetary donations are welcome. Call Sandi Larson at 425-314-7786.
For more information about the Recovery for Life Training Center, call Marsha at 425-252-6484, ext. 102, or e-mail at info@recoveryforlife.org
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