We remember

This week and every day, we remember the events of September 11, 2001, and how the world is still being affected by the attack that left a nation in mourning. In this edition, we’re sharing a firsthand account of volunteers who served alongside Convoy of Hope at Ground Zero, along with Tropical Storm Francine updates and events that restore dignity.

‘I prayed a bold prayer’

In the days following September 11, phone lines were down and the Teeds were waiting to hear how they could help — they were leading a small church in Seneca Falls, hours away. At their Wednesday prayer meeting, Patty made a move that started their response journey.

“I prayed a bold prayer, asking God to bring big trucks. I asked Him to help us meet this huge need.”

What followed was a series of miracles.

Eventually, it led to the Teeds serving at the Homeport recovery center on Staten Island, where thousands of firefighters, rescue workers, and National Guard members were supported as they responded. Norm accompanied crew members to Ground Zero as a chaplain and helped with recovery efforts. A small organization called Convoy of Hope was there, too, providing hot meals, supplies, shower facilities, and beds that could be a respite after long hours serving across the harbor.

Patty said they received cans from Convoy, and each came with a location on the side showing where they were donated from. Each also came with a note on the side:

“You’re not alone.”

“We’ve got your back.”

“We’re praying for you.”?

Read more about the many miracles at Ground Zero and Convoy’s continued response to those facing the impossible in our story.

Storm Francine response

Convoy of Hope is responding to Tropical Storm Francine. Team members deployed early Wednesday morning with equipment and essential supplies. This same area was also hit by Hurricane Ida back in 2021.?

This week, volunteers and staff gathered to pack thousands of bags of groceries to prepare for this response. We’re grateful for our volunteers who dedicate their time to serving at Hope Crew, a twice-weekly opportunity to pack supplies and assist with various projects.?

This past June, our partners at SpartanNash rallied together to pack 15,000 boxes of meals and hygiene kits for families impacted by disasters — all ready to go ahead of the fall hurricane season. Watch the recap video from the event.

Stay tuned for more Francine updates.

Summer recap

This summer, Convoy team members have been hard at work restoring hope and dignity to communities across the United States. This year, they’ve served more than 1.2 million people, distributed over 15.5 million pounds of product, and impacted countless individuals and families.?

“If we could break cycles of poverty in one day, we would,” Convoy’s Jason Bachman shared. “But we’re looking for the champions of communities who want to partner with Convoy of Hope to make a lasting impact.”?

Convoy may be the starting point, but it’s communities that keep that change going. There is power in connecting individuals with leaders from their own community to help them receive access to resources and support for the long haul.

Read some of these transformational stories in our recent recap.

On the horizon

• Convoy’s 2024 Gift Catalog — Stay tuned for meaningful and creative holiday gift opportunities to support Convoy’s various initiatives like feeding children, empowering women, training farmers, responding to disasters, and bringing hope to communities. More updates to come!
• Give back at Fall Community Events — Convoy will be hosting a Community Event in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, in partnership with the local community leaders, businesses, churches, and other groups. Register to volunteer here.