New Clothes Give Tulsa Homeless Hope

Lacie Lowry, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Dozens of homeless people at the Tulsa Day Center are now dressed for success, thanks to some generous donations.

An outreach ministry that works with the center delivered new clothes to families there Saturday. Racks and rows of new clothes and shoes greeted families at the Day Center.

"I was thankful, excited because I like wearing suits, I've always wanted to wear suits, I dream about wearing suits," said Kindera Jasper.

Every Saturday, the Changing Lives Ministry holds a worship service at the Day Center. For Easter, they got several stores to donate Easter outfits to the homeless, from the little kids to the grownups.

"I was like, 'cool.' I was happy about it. The lady that picked it out - she has really good taste," said Donna Payne.

For many, the clothes mean more than just a boost to their appearance.

"It gives me hope, it gives me encouragement. Sometimes being homeless, I'm discouraged, but it gives me a lot of encouragement," said Charles Jackson.

Bernadette McQueen is the mastermind behind Changing Lives Ministry. Her own homelessness in the past led her to start the outreach.

"God called me here and spoke to me and told me 'one day you will move to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and you will reach thousands upon thousands of hurting people," McQueen said.

John McDaniel is hurting right now. But the small gift has given him hope to get out of his low place.

"It made me feel great that people still care about other people and they have a general idea that people can change and they're willing to donate to that," McDaniel said.

Changing Lives Ministry is a non-profit and they need more donations to keep going. They don't ask for money, rather clothing, toiletries, food, even a warehouse to store all of it.

If you want more information about donations or the mission of Changing Lives Ministry, contact Bernadette McQueen at 918-814-8313.