Word On The Street

Another great day during street outreach yesterday. We were out bringing steak sandwiches to the streets of Syracuse, while Saoirse Murphy-Collins and Shelly Frank Dunham did what they always do best engaging with those who so often feel invisible. We were able to love on many people, make new connections, strengthen old relationships, and continue building trust with individuals by offering dignity and hope in the middle of their suffering. One powerful moment from the day was when one of our friends on the street asked John to pray for her. It was a reminder that beyond the physical needs, many people are deeply searching for hope, peace, purpose, and a spiritual connection. We never force conversations about faith, but we’ve found that many on the streets genuinely want prayer, encouragement, and to know that God has not forgotten them. A special thank you to our incredible partners at Housecalls for the Homeless. In the photos, you can see fourth-year medical student Colleen helping one of our friends navigate resources while Dr. Lehman provided much-needed medical care and medication. It was truly another big day on the streets of Syracuse, where compassion, connection, medical support, and faith all came together to remind people they are seen, valued, and loved. Thank you all for your continued prayers, support, and partnership in making this work possible

Today during street outreach, In My Father’s Kitchen had the opportunity to check in on one of our friends who is currently living in a tent in the woods. Pictured are Shelly, one of IMFK Care Managers, alongside Jess, a third-year Upstate Medical student from Housecalls for the Homeless – Upstate who joined to help bring food, supplies, sleeping bags, and most importantly care and human connection. This visit was simply a wellness check to make sure our friend is safe and knows they are not alone. Right now, this individual has chosen not to go to one of the major shelters and is choosing to remain outdoors. While we may not always understand the “why,” we will always respect the person. Our commitment is to walk alongside our friends, support their decisions, and continue building relationships rooted in trust so that when they are ready to come indoors, they know they have a safe place to turn. Thank you all for your continued support. This is a small snapshot of what we do every single day at In My Father’s Kitchen. Together, we are building hope and changing lives one meal at a time, one soft touch at a time through love, compassion, dignity, and value.

Our Hire Ground program, in partnership with Onondaga County, is out on the streets of Syracuse in the middle of this snowstorm—clearing sidewalks, serving our community, and restoring dignity through purposeful work.

This is what a hand up, not a handout looks like.

Every shovelful brings value not only to our city but to the men and women who join us each day. Through Hire Ground, participants get more than a job for a few hours—they get:

A safe place to belong
Case management and connection to needed services
A break from the struggles of the day
The dignity of earning compensation for their work

Huge gratitude to Kevin, George, and Kat, our incredible Hire Ground team members who facilitate the workdays, empower our participants, and walk with them through case management. They bring hope, structure, and encouragement to every workday.

Thank you to every supporter who makes this possible. Together, we’re beautifying our city, restoring dignity, and offering hope in the middle of brokenness.

Thank You,

John and Leigh Ann

🚨 Graphic Content Warning – Medical Images Below 🚨

We are so incredibly grateful for our amazing partners at Housecalls for the Homeless and Dr. Lehmann. 💙 Today, their medical team stepped in to help one of our friends experiencing a serious medical crisis.

The wound—caused by complications from intravenous drug use—had progressed to a dangerous state of infection and necrosis, where healing becomes nearly impossible without proper care. But thanks to the compassion and skill of Emily, a second-year medical student from Upstate Medical University, our friend received treatment with dignity, respect, and zero judgment. 🙌

This is what real care looks like. 💪 Thank you, Housecalls for the Homeless – Upstate, for walking alongside us in this mission. Your partnership saves lives. 🙏

📸 Swipe with caution – images may be graphic but tell the real story of need, compassion, and hope.

Every day, as we drive through town, we see individuals standing on street corners or wandering the streets, often holding cardboard signs. These moments can feel heavy or even uncomfortable as we wonder, “What can I do to help?” It’s a question many of us wrestle with, but through In My Father’s Kitchen (IMFK), there is an answer.

By connecting with IMFK, you’re becoming part of the solution. You’re turning those moments of uncertainty into action. Your support fuels our outreach efforts, allowing us to be the hands extended to our friends living outdoors. Through meals, resources, and a listening ear, we offer hope and build bridges of trust that change lives.

Every interaction matters. Every meal served, every conversation shared, and every step forward is possible because of you. When you choose to partner with us, you’re not just supporting an organization—you’re part of a movement of compassion and transformation. Together, we’re breaking through barriers of isolation and despair, reminding our friends on the streets that they are seen, valued, and loved.

You are making a difference. Your generosity drives hope and opens doors to brighter futures. It’s not just about giving; it’s about creating lasting impact in our community.

Let’s continue to build hope together. Join us as we extend kindness, one life at a time. Visit In My Father’s Kitchen today and be part of something bigger—because together, we’re changing lives.