In Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Bob Lenz, the senior pastor of Restoration Community Church and the board chair for the Salvation Army, is leading a dedicated effort to address homelessness in the area. With the closure of the Salvation Army’s warming center due to a lack of heat, Pastor Lenz has taken the initiative to open a new warming center at Restoration Community Church. This center, equipped with 21 cots and the capacity to accommodate up to 50 people, is supported by a team of 53 trained volunteers.
“I realize there are about 60 churches here in Cape, and I ask, why do we still have a homeless problem? There’s a lot of duplication, but not enough collaboration,” he said.
Pastor Lenz’s commitment to helping the homeless is deeply rooted in his past experiences. Coming from San Diego, where homelessness is a significant issue, he has served in various capacities, including at dream centers and rescue missions. His passion for aiding the less fortunate is evident in his statement: “If I keep 30 people warm and feed 30 people, I just fed Jesus 30 times and tucked him in 30 times.”
The new warming center has also received support from Spread Hope Now Ministries in Sikeston, which operates a small warming center and is willing to assist with this new initiative. However, the center currently does not accommodate women and children due to the lack of background checks on male guests, prioritizing the safety of all individuals, especially children.
Pastor Lenz raises a crucial question about the local community, highlighting the existence of around 60 churches in Cape Girardeau and questioning why homelessness remains an issue. He emphasizes the need for collective action and communication among the churches to address this problem effectively. Reflecting on his experiences in larger cities, he notes the difference in community responses and urges a more proactive approach.
Despite facing challenges, including pushback from some residents and authorities, Pastor Lenz continues to advocate for the homeless. He collaborates with other community leaders, such as Rev. Allen-Patterson of St. James AME, to expand support programs and explore new ways to transport and accommodate those in need. St. James has previously provided hotel vouchers and food to those in need and now supports directing individuals to Restoration’s warming center.
One big issue Lenz points out – transportation. “We don’t have the ability to run over to Cape, but people from Cape can come here, people from Jackson can come here, Sikeston, doesn’t matter,” he added. “We don’t want people to be cold.” “The God I serve is not bound by zip codes,” Lenz remarked. “We may not be able to do it all, but we can do so much more collectively.”
Pastor Lenz’s work is not limited to providing immediate relief. He also engages with local law enforcement, conducting Bible study sessions with police officers to spread awareness and ensure that the homeless are informed about available resources. This collaboration aims to create a more supportive network for those in need.
One significant observation made by Pastor Lenz is the lack of diversity in community meetings and efforts. Pastor Lenz is candid about the need for greater inclusion, particularly in engaging African American churches in discussions and decision-making. “In many cities I’ve worked in, diversity at the table was a given, but here, it feels like an oversight,” he noted. Everyone needs to be at the table because we can’t serve one group and neglect others.” His efforts to bridge gaps and foster collaboration are ongoing, as he continues to invite and encourage participation from all community members.
Pastor Bob Lenz’s is a testament to his unwavering commitment to helping those in need. With growing partnerships and an unwavering commitment to service, Pastor Lenz is hopeful that the community will rise to meet the needs of its most vulnerable. He believes that collaboration and compassion can transform lives and ensure no one is left out in the cold.
For more information or to volunteer, visit the RCC Warming Center Facebook page.
