On a Monday night in October, Ephesus church participated in the opening night of the Watts Labor Community Action Committee’s (WLCAC) safe-parking program. WLCAC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents of South Central Los Angeles. WLCAC’s safe-parking program, SafeParking LA, is committed to homelessness intervention by providing resources for people who are living in their vehicles.
During opening night, guests—single adults and couples who are facing homelessness or who are living in their cars and RVs—were treated to a nutritious hot meal. Tables adorned with tablecloths resembled a home-dining atmosphere.
Diva Jones-Moses, community services director of Ephesus church, worked alongside Reba Stevens, homeless and community advocate for the city of Los Angeles, and Shannon Murray, WLCAC program director. A small group of volunteers rounded out the team.
This program is near to Stevens’ heart, as she experienced 21 years of homelessness, as well as 21 years of alcohol and drug use. She advocated for a faith-based group to join together and make a Christ-like difference in the community.
At the end of dinner, ample leftovers remained for guests to take, along with sack lunches in which small pamphlets were enclosed for spiritual nourishment.
Murray was grateful for the support of Ephesus church through this endeavor. “Last night was amazing, and they loved the leftovers,” recalled Murray. “We are so blessed to have you as part of our village. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
The Safe Parking Program is a city-sponsored program designed to provide safe and legal alternatives to people who are experiencing homelessness and living in their vehicles. This program serves as an intervention to connect those in the homeless community to much needed resources. If you have an interest in serving your community through the Safe Parking Programs, you may access more information at https://www.safeparkingla.org/.
