West Houston Assistance Ministries, Inc. (WHAM) received an early Christmas gift thanks to one generous Houston teenager. Nathan Brunell recently celebrated his 16th birthday by hosting a food drive for the organization.
In lieu of gifts, the young member of Ashford United Methodist Church asked friends and fellow churchgoers to bring canned goods and other food items to his birthday party.
The result was 60 pounds of much needed food for WHAM’s food pantry.
“It made me feel happy,” said Nathan, as he toured WHAM offices on Monday. “I learned that giving is better than receiving.”
Nathan is dyslexic and home schooled. His father says they have always strived to teach Nathan the value of giving back to the community. He says Ashford United Methodist Church and WHAM has given the 16-year-old a new sense of purpose and accomplishment.
“We wanted to use this as a time for him to grow,” said Lee Brunell, Nathan’s dad. “And so we suggested this to him and he said ʻYeah, Iʼd really like to do that,’ so we are really proud of him.”
Ashford United Methodist Church is one of WHAM’s founding churches. The congregation has helped throughout the years by providing WHAM with food, clothing and other essential items for families needing assistance. Two of the church’s members also serve on
WHAM’s Board of Directors.
“There are two parts to this,” said Carol Greenslate, spokesperson for Ashford United Methodist Church. “First, it allows the older members of our congregation to see that there is hope for the future. Secondly, it taps into the competitive nature of teenagers. I have already been approached by two other teens who also want to host a food drive for their birthdays.”
During the holiday season, WHAM’s food pantry continues to need mashed potatoes, stuffing mix, gravy, chicken broth, canned vegetables, fruit and yams. Grocery store gift cards in the amount of $10 are also needed to assist with the purchases of ham or turkey.
For more information on hosting a holiday food, contact the WHAM Care Ministry at (713) 977-9942.
West Houston Assistance Ministries, Inc. (WHAM) needs winter clothing to help homeless men, women and children stay warm this time of the year. The organization is currently hosting a winter clothing drive. Items most in need are new or gently used coats of all sizes. Also needed are new blankets, socks, winter caps, gloves and scarves. Donations can be dropped off at WHAM, located at 10501 Meadowglen at Rodgerdale. For more information on how you can help, call the WHAM Care Ministry at 713-977-9942.
