Council Members Fields and Spadola join Pastor Ben at Food and Clothing Giveaway in Wilmington’s S.U.N. Park
WILMINGTON – New Council Members Bregetta Fields (5th District) and James Spadola (At-Large) celebrated the significant contributions of Pastor Sandra Ben and the Safe United Neighborhoods (S.U.N.) organization on February 13th in Wilmington’s S.U.N. Park on 22nd & Lamotte Streets. On this cold Saturday, Pastor Ben, Safe United Neighborhoods (S.U.N.), and the NorthEast Civic Association offered a hand up and hope to neighbors.
“We’re partnering together to give out food, clothing, and toys. We’re calling it ‘Show Love’ for Valentine’s Day weekend,” said Pastor Sandra Ben. “Normally we just give out food items but today we had so much more to share. People don’t just need food. People are asking for clothing. You can’t afford to buy clothes and things right now so we have it out here. And it is free. Everything is free.”
Residents participating in the event. Photo provided by Saquan Stimpson
The giveaway event distributed food, clothing, toys, and shoes to the community, despite the freezing temperature and rain. The event ended with the presentation of a resolution by Council Members Spadola and Fields on behalf of Wilmington City Council to Pastor Ben for the support she continues to give to the Wilmington community.
“Pastor Ben is a beacon of light in our community, said Councilwoman Bregetta Fields, 5th District. “She has been a blessing to so many residents throughout the city. She has a church with four walls where she ministers. However, she takes her God-given gift outside of those walls to feed “His” people. She feeds the community with food, clothing, and a word from God. She reminds me of my mother.”
Councilwoman Fields (Fifth District) and Councilman Spadola (At-Large) presenting a resolution to Pastor Sandra Ben. Photo provided by Yesenia Taveras
Far too many people in Wilmington are struggling with the devastating impacts of the pandemic and economic downturn. The giveaway event is only one of the many acts of service and kindness toward Wilmington’s community by Pastor Ben and S.U.N.
Councilwoman Fields speaking with residents. Photo provided by Saquan Stimpson
“This is so typical of Pastor Ben to be out here when it is 25 degrees and raining. It is freezing and still, she is here with her supporters and donations to help anyone who needs it,” said Councilman Spadola. “It’s an honor to give this resolution, our small token of appreciation, to Pastor Ben for all she does in our community. The world would be a better place if we had more Pastor Bens in it. She brings people together and makes us all better for it.”