Convoy of Hope anticipates 7,500 guests and 2,000 volunteers at an event tomorrow geared toward helping people in poverty.
Focused on Zone 1 residents, more than $1 million worth of goods and services will be available to guests. The event starting at 10 a.m. at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds represents a partnership with the city of Springfield, local businesses, churches, government agencies and nonprofits.
“They’ve been a great asset for this event,” Convoy of Hope Director of Public Relations Molly Erickson said of the city and other volunteers.
Erickson said donated goods and services include groceries, health care, haircuts, family portraits and shoes. Organizations also will help residents connect with long-term betterment services, such as housing assistance.
Last year, Convoy of Hope held 28 such events across the country, providing goods and services to 82,000 people. The Springfield event - the first in the Queen City at this level of involvement - is among 20 planned this year, Erickson said.
Tomorrow, volunteers also will work on betterment projects across the city, including painting and maintenance at Hillcrest High School and yard maintenance and cleanup at various homes in Zone 1.
Last month, Community Foundation of the Ozarks announced a $500,000 grant toward a five-year, $1.3 million initiative dubbed the Northwest Project. The project aims to help families living in Zone 1 become more self-sustainable and overcome poverty.
