Kudos to the Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church (900 Massachusetts Avenue) for graciously extending a helping hand to Downtown’s homeless population. While the 163-year-old church has a history of providing food, fellowship and hot showers to those needing these services, local business contributions are essential. Take the Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square (806 15th Street). The luxury hotel delivers breakfast each Tuesday morning to those experiencing homelessness during the winter months. Two Starbucks, including the location at 901 New York Avenue, donate items each time the church opens its doors—now three days per week. Hensel Phelps Construction Company, which is building the $520 million Marriott Marquis convention center headquarters hotel underway at 901 Massachusetts Avenue, is also in on the action. Each Thursday morning, the company sends three volunteers to the church to deliver all the coffee, creamer and sugar served to homeless individuals and donates cleaning services for the Shower Ministry once per week. The day before Thanksgiving, Hensel Phelps also provided a free lunch and donated a new coat, hat and gloves to each guest. Talk about amazing and good looking out! Other city businesses donate gently used toiletries—such as shampoo, conditioner, lotion and soap—or contribute oral care products, including floss, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Want to help? Send an email to Jason Miller at jwmnc@me.com.
