Friends feeding friends, serving up hope, too.

January 17, 2018

Written By

Mary Friona Celani

Regina Weise says it was a call from above, “It’s something God put in my heart. Western New York is filled with amazing people. It is filled with people who care and I am so grateful to have grown up in such a wonderful place.”  Regina started ‘Friends Feeding Friends’ to help those in need. Those with nothing. Literally nothing.

Regina Weise (on the far right) counts on volunteers and the community.

So, for four years, every Monday and Saturday at around 7:30 p.m., Regina and her crew of volunteers head over to Fireman’s Park in downtown Buffalo to feed the homeless. And each night, it’s a treat for those living on the frigid streets of the Queen City. Chili, soup, sandwiches, fruit, cookies, water and coffee served out of Regina’s trunk. They also bring socks, underwear, hats, gloves, blankets, coats, and more. The food fills the empty stomachs. The clothing fills a life-saving need in the bone-chilling cold.

It fills up Regina, too – just in a different way, “It fills an empty spot in me. It means so much to be able to help. These are people. Like you and me. People. Yes, many are addicted to drugs, but they are human beings. And yes, we see women and children, too.”

They know she’s coming, too. Word is out. Sadly, they prepare for 50, and often run out.

The reality is, there are simply not enough shelters in Buffalo. Regina’s dream is a building to fit anyone in need. To get each of them – especially the women and children – off the streets, teach them how to get and keep a job, get the kids in school.

Regina counts on support from the community, which always seems to be there. For three years, she’s been bringing hope and encouragement when so many turn away.

If you would like to help, visit the Friends Feeding Friends Facebook Page. 

Thank you Regina and all of the incredible volunteers for reminding us that we are all equal and we must look out for one another.

Bath Fitter

 

Rolly Pollies

 

Workbea Digital

 

About Me

 

 

Welcome to Totally Buffalo! A local lifestyle website.

My name is Mary Friona-Celani and I am the creator of this site! I’m a wife, a mom, a grandma, a Buffalo booster, an entrepreneur and a small business owner. I’m so glad you stopped by.  After 20 years in the buffalo media, I went out on my own to tell stories about the people, places, events and all-around fabulousness of this wonderful place we call home. Buffalo is different and so is this site. We are here to share stories, encourage kindness, and help make this a better place to live.

We’ll help those in need when we can through our charity arm, Totally Buffalo Cares.

We help local small businesses, artisans and vendors though our events and our Totally Buffalo Stores.

We’ll do all of this with a little help from friends in our community.

 

0 Comments

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This