Andrew’s Brothers deliver fresh message to Portsmouth residents
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Just outside downtown Portsmouth at High and Godwin streets, passersby on four wheels and two stopped when they heard a man yelling the word free.
In one hand, he held a blue umbrella to protect his face from the blistering sun, with his other hand raised toward the sky as he clutched zipped plastic bags that contained items many would take for granted.
At High and Godwin, an area that was a busy commercial corridor as late as the 1980s, nothing is taken for granted.
Edward Bragg, who has a fixed income, pulled over and into the parking lot of the historic Third Baptist Church. As legend has it, during the slavery era, the church sheltered slaves who were running north to freedom. At High and Godwin, many residents are now running from poverty.
“I saw a gentleman giving away free packages,” Bragg said. “I said, ‘let me stop and see what’s going on.'”
From the church parking lot, the men of Andrew’s Brothers set up a white buffet-style table where they handed out packages that included deodorant, toothpaste, socks, and soap. The packages were not labeled but the gifts delivered a message that silently spoke to the young mothers with strollers, the homeless men who have aged far beyond their years, and the chronically ill who may have seen their best years.
Carl Williams is the leader of Andrew’s Brothers. Over the years 10 On Your Side has shared several stories on the Brothers, who have thrown a lifeline to young men in Portsmouth who are making their parents proud.
The free toiletries are another aspect of the Andrew’s Brothers ministry.
“Thank God that we are able to give back to the community,” Williams said. “That is our conversation. To let them know someone who loves them and cares for them. And it’s not always bad, bad, bad. Sometimes you got to show love by giving acts of kindness.”
The faculty of Mount Hermon Preschool Center, along with other supporters, donated the items.
The timing was critical.
Residents with limited resources say every penny counts, and every contribution counts.
Vernon Harrell of Portsmouth was proud to receive the gallon-size plastic bag full of toiletries and other items.
Regina Mobley: How does this help you financially when you get items like this?
Vernon Harrell: Oh real good, real good, plus I need these socks anyway.
If you would like to help the organization, Andrew’s Brothers, or if you need assistance from Andrew’s Brothers, contact Third Baptist Church at 757-393-9312.
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