Debbie Michel
September 10, 2025A beautifully decorated banquet table, complete with candles and elegant touches designed by Pamela Daly, director of logistics and operations, set the stage for an unforgettable gathering.
Volunteers from across the city served a hot meal from a local food establishment, carefully plated and presented with dignity. As the afternoon went on, the turnout exceeded expectations. When the pre-prepared meals ran out, volunteers quickly rallied to provide additional meals—bringing in tacos and other options to make sure no one left hungry.
Before the meal was served, Desmond Sturrup, associate pastor of Berean, offered an uplifting word of encouragement—reminding everyone present that they were valued, seen and loved.
This commitment to action and compassion was made possible through weeks of hard work and collaboration. Claval Hunter, senior pastor of Berean; Carl Hetler, head of homeless services for the City of South Bend, and the Welcome Table team dedicated six weeks to coordinating volunteers, aligning resources and ensuring every detail of the day came together.
Community in Action
Partnerships with Naxos Neighbors, Oakland Mental Health Services, the YWCA, and many other organizations brought additional layers of support. Free haircuts, testimonies of resilience and heartfelt words of gratitude from participants reminded all involved that true ministry is about presence, relationship and compassion in action.
Reflecting on the event, Hetler said, “When city leaders, churches, and neighbors come together like this, it shows our unhoused residents that they are not forgotten. What we did here is more than a meal—it’s a demonstration of the community’s commitment to walk with them toward stability and hope.”
One guest summed it up best:
“Out here, it’s love, compassion, and care—it’s God everywhere. I already got my blessing, so I came back to show my appreciation.”
Gratitude and Vision Forward
Reflecting on the day, Hunter extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the Welcome Table possible:
“Because of your service and generosity, we were able to bring hope and encouragement to our brothers and sisters who long for a place to call home and the opportunity to thrive.”
He also expressed his desire for South Bend to keep the momentum going:
“I would love to hear your ideas on how we can continue coming together to host more community engagement projects in the future.”
Habi Gasigwa serves as executive director of The Welcome Table, a ministry reaching people who are trafficked, unhoused, or struggling with mental health.
