Full Disclosure--I work at the corporate office at Cityteam in San Jose, CA…read more
I recently visited our Chester site, and from an outsider's point of view, I was struck by how friendly everyone was. The staff, volunteers, and clients were so hospitable--not just to me, but to everyone I observed. The genuine care and concern shown for those receiving services was so evident. The staff and regular volunteers are invested in this community. Chester is no walk in the park, and these people choose to come in every day, build relationships, pray for the community, and serve.
And they serve people with dignity. Have you heard about their Hope Cafe? In addition to serving cafeteria style meals all week long, on Saturday evenings, the space is transformed into a restaurant, the guests order from a menu, and they are served just as they would be at a restaurant. The Mother-Baby program provides families from the community with necessities they may not be able to afford on their own. Moms can get diapers, formula, clothes, diaper bags, etc. There is a recovery program for men who want to be freed from their addictions, and they do community outreach delivering meals, backpacks, turkeys, and toys. Cityteam Chester does a real good job of celebrating and sharing good news through their social media page on FB. Check them out!