On Christmas Day, a dedicated group of volunteers ensured that men experiencing homelessness at the East Valley Men’s Center in Mesa, Arizona, felt the warmth of community and compassion. For the eighth consecutive year, From the Ashes We Rise Ministries organized a Christmas dinner, providing not only a festive meal but also a sense of belonging to those in need.
Amid the holiday celebrations, Tyler Fannon, a resident at the shelter, expressed how the community has positively impacted his life. “It’s a family. I don’t want to say ‘like’ a family — it is a family,” Fannon stated. Having called the East Valley Men’s Center home for approximately three months, he reflected on his journey from living on the streets of Tempe to finding shelter and security.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Fannon, along with around 100 men currently residing at the shelter, has benefited from the basic necessities provided, including food, shelter, and support services. “It’s a roof over my head, food in my stomach and a place to sleep,” he noted. Staff members at the shelter are committed to helping residents regain their independence through job assistance and regular interactions with case managers.
“We help them as best as we can — finding a job, maintaining sobriety, overcoming addiction, whatever challenges they may be dealing with,” said Tanner Swanson of A New Leaf. During the holiday season, when feelings of loneliness can be particularly acute, this support plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of connection among residents.
Fannon shared his gratitude for the efforts made by the volunteers, stating, “Just being in a home with other people, and not out on the streets when it’s raining or cold — it touches my heart.”
A Meaningful Christmas Celebration
The annual Christmas dinner, prepared by volunteers from From the Ashes We Rise Ministries, is a labor of love. Pastors Tim and Toni Grimm emphasized the importance of community during the holidays. “Christmas is not the time to be alone. It’s the time to show love and compassion,” Toni Grimm remarked. “There’s no better way to do that than to feed people and give them a Christmas gift.”
This year, volunteers decorated the dining hall and served a festive meal that included turkey with gravy, smoked barbecue chicken, ham, and an array of sides. To satisfy sweet cravings, desserts such as banana pudding, cupcakes, sweet potato pies, and peach cobbler were also on the menu.
As the evening came to a close, each man staying at the shelter received a Christmas gift, reinforcing the message of care and support. “For somebody to be there for you, it makes life go around,” Fannon concluded. “That’s what makes a house into a home, and that’s what I cherish.”
