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Metropolitan Baptist Church held a giveaway to help the community and build relationships. The weather cleared out in time for the outdoor event.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 19, church members set up tables in the church parking lot with proper spacing and masks to minister to those who had needs whether they be physical or spiritual.

“This is what the church is all about,” said Donald Everett, youth pastor of education at Metropolitan Baptist Church. “As a missionary church, this is what we do. We help people.”

Numerous tables were full of different items for people to take, such as suits, jeans, dresses, and shoes available in sizes ranging from children to adults. Canned goods and school supplies were also available. Members of the church supplied all of the donations.

“We have something for everyone,” said Everett. “This event is for everyone, so we hope they will come.”

The giveaway was a church effort, with all of its ministries – the Young Developers ministry, Afrocentric ministry and the Polly Armstrong ministry – helping out along with the church’s deacons and trustees.

“I enjoy doing this for people and to be able to have the opportunity to help people,” said Glenda Outlaw, president of the Polly Armstrong ministry.

The church usually holds giveaways at least twice per year. However, this was the first giveaway event they were able to do this year due to the pandemic and other obstacles. The church tries to help the community in as many ways as possible as they try to exemplify Christ’s teachings, according to Everett. The church also hopes to hold a drive-through Halloween near the end of October.

“If people are searching for what the church is, this is it,” Everett said. “It is Christ’s love shown through giving and love. This is the time for us to show what Christ has put into us during these times. This is not for show, but a message of love.”