News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
National nonprofit organization Convoy of Hope will be in Cookeville Saturday to assist those in need.
Jason Stanford is the Assistant Pastor at TRINITYalgood. He said the organization will provide services from handing out groceries and shoes, giving haircuts, and helping people apply for jobs.
“A group of churches, businesses, and community organizations have come together to sponsor Convoy of Hope to come to our area,” Stanford said. “They’ve gathered together and have been planning for some time to bring them in and bless people in our community who need help. There’s a wide range of goods that are going to be available to those in need, so we encourage people to come and receive.”
Stanford said Convoy of Hope’s visit will be the first for the organization in Cookeville since August 2016, in which they served just under 5,000 people in one day.
“We’re just inviting and encouraging people if you know anybody that knows of anybody that needs help or assistance to come and receive that day,” Stanford said. “We are anticipating to serve that approximate same number of people (in 2016), so we’re ready and willing and able to accommodate that crowd again.”
According to Convoy of Hope’s website, volunteer registration is still open to those interested in serving during Saturday’s event.
“We live in a wonderful community that wants to help people and bless people,” Stanford said. “People experience rough patches in life and difficult seasons… and it’s wonderful when people can come together to encourage and help people and reach out, and we want to do that. We want to show the love of God and give them hope.”
The event will begin at 10 a.m. and will be located at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. Stanford said people are not required to bring anything but themselves to the event.
“No ID is required to come and get assistance and get help,” Stanford said. “We’ll last until supplies runs out so we encourage people to come early and get ready to receive.”
Convoy of Hope’s website indicates a volunteer rally will take place Friday at 7 p.m. at River Community Church off Miracle Road. The organization is accepting donations on their site as well.
