'Bridge Builders' Giving Hope To Everyone
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - It is often said no one should have to celebrate Christmas alone. On this cold Christmas day, hundreds of needy families from Dallas didn't have to do that. They were invited to lunch and went home with presents.
For Velma Mitchell and hundreds of other volunteers here in the Bon Ton neighborhood of South Dallas, giving is receiving. "I've had Jesus bumps all day long."
Mitchell is part of the group Hope In Salvation Bridge Builders, which served a hot lunch to 500 families.
Everyone who came left with a box of food and toiletries, a wrapped present, a coat, and two outfits. But it's the smiles here that never seem to wear out.
Javier Serrato came with his mother, wife, and three daughters. "We know people think of us. I appreciate it. We're very happy for the girls. They got toys and clothes."
The line to get in stretched around the building.
Mike Fechner co-founded the event with Mitchell. "The need in our cities is real. So often we live across the bridge but we don't really see the need of our families and friends across the bridge in our cities."
"This is about god taking care of his people," says Mitchell.
The warm and joyous event was born from a personal tragedy. Mitchell's 17-year-old son Romon was shot and killed during a drive-by shooting 18-years-ago.
They never found his killer. "I lost my only son, my only child. During that time, i would have a pity party at Christmas time."
Then ten years ago Mitchell says she had had enough pity. "I said 'God, you help me because I want to be helping someone else.'" So she started cooking and giving away food on Christmas.
After partnering with Mike Fechner, it's grown into this massive event. "The death of my son brought on a ministry like this and this is what we're serving all because a 17-year-old boy was shot down."
Mitchell's story touched Javier Serrato. "Something from a tragedy, to make a big thing for a lot of people... It's nice, very good job for her."
Among the companies who made donations: Feed The Children, World Vision, Luby's, Karlie Contemporary Clothing, and Eva's House of BBQ.
The group Hope In Salvation Bridge Builders also provides job training and employment and other services year round.
