Child’s Heart for the Unhoused Sparks New Ministry at Amarillo UMC

Mary Ellen and Swayze, children at Amarillo UMC, with more than 60 gift bags, packed and ready for delivery

A simple question from a child has grown into a new ministry at Amarillo United Methodist Church, bringing children and adults together to care for people experiencing homelessness in the community.

While riding with her mother, seven-year-old Swayze noticed people living on the streets and asked what could be done to help. Her mother shared the conversation with a children’s Sunday school teacher, who then raised the idea with the church’s Ladies’ Tuesday Fellowship group. From there, plans quickly took shape.

Church members consulted local organizations, created supply lists, purchased items and delivered them to the children’s Sunday school classrooms. At the same time, children learned about homelessness, discussed ways to respond with kindness and respect, and created drawings and handwritten notes to include with the supplies.

In late October, children and teachers assembled 60 gift bags filled with everyday necessities. And on Saturday, Nov. 1, members of the ladies’ group joined two children and their families at Ellwood Park to distribute the bags to people gathered for a meal being served by another local organization.

Recipients expressed gratitude, and church leaders say the effort has sparked ongoing conversations about how the congregation can continue serving neighbors in need.

“What started as a child noticing others and asking how to help has become a ministry that’s bringing generations together,” said Rev. Dr. Chad Johnson, senior pastor at Amarillo UMC. “It’s a reminder that meaningful ministry can begin with listening, compassion and a willingness to act.”