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The Rev. James Giles distributes food and the hope of the gospel at Gateway to Hope.
GATEWAY TO HOPE OFFERS SERVICE, �
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EVANGELISM IN OCALA BY DEWAYNE H A M BY
As many ministries have adapted to the changing landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gateway to Hope has regrouped and expanded its mission to feed families in the greater Ocala area. The nonprofit has existed since 2011, providing more than 100,000 people with services ranging from employment to housing to food. With physical distancing now in place, the ministry has adapted, focusing more on food delivery, this time using a safe, drive-thru model. “We’ve been running what they’re calling a mobile pantry,” The Rev. James Giles, CEO, said. “Every Saturday, we have
about anywhere from 150 to 300 cars, averaging about 1,200 to 2,000 people represented that come through, and we fill their cars with food.” MEETING NEEDS During the distribution, Giles’ army of 30-40 volunteers gather to help hand out the food and minister to people in cars as they drive in, giving comfort and spiritual direction. Giles, an ordained Episcopal priest, has a nursing degree with some experience in psychology. He soon learned his background was helpful in discerning red flags of emotional need, a valuable tool he has also instilled in his volunteers. “We’re trying to help people and keep them safe,” he said. “Somebody might be struggling with extreme bipolar. We have a lot of schizophrenics that come through. We find ourselves in a lot of different situations.” Giles said before the pandemic hit, Gateway to Hope’s primary beneficiaries were the homeless, retired veterans and the self-employed. Since the shutdown, with so many job losses, their crowds come from a variety of places and all
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Easter 2021 CFE
