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Everyone's heard the saying "It takes a village to raise a child."

But we believe "It takes a city to change a city."

 

Our Story

 

The By Name Project started in 2016 when founder Jeff Wright felt moved by the Lord to begin a street ministry in Sumter, SC. The goal of the ministry was simple: find people whom others ignored and befriend them. If they looked hungry, offer them a meal. If they seemed lost or lonely, lend them an ear.

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In the weeks that followed, Jeff found others who felt a similar call, and soon the project grew to four committed members and multiple volunteers. What started as random encounters, soon became regularly scheduled events where those called to serve would meet needy members of the community, get to know them by name, and provide physical, emotional, and spiritual support. 

 

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As relationships were built and the community responded to the outreach, the group applied for and gained status as a 501(c)3 Non-Profit organization called The By Name Project.

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In time, more partners have come alongside donating meals, clothing, and even a mobile trailer for storing and transporting equipment and supplies to the bi-monthly park events.

 

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Where We Are Today

 

After more than 7 years of service, The By Name Project continues to grow and go where the Lord directs. Here is how we are currently helping those in need in our community.

 

Bi-Monthly Park Event

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Lunch in the Park

 

On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the group meets at 305 Dingle Street Park right behind the area where the Emergency Shelter on Oakland Ave used to stand. We start the event by sharing a meal with the community. During this time we get to know those we serve by name, talk with them about their lives, and share about ourselves. The atmosphere is casual, with the goal of offering friendship and support to those who are often overlooked or ignored. 

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Life Supplies

 

After the meal and fellowship, we open our trailer to those in need. Community members can come and receive clothing, shoes, hygiene items, books and other things to support and enrich their lives.

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Food for the Soul

 

Many who come to The By Name Project events are in need of more than just food or clothing. They seek friendship, understanding, or a shoulder to cry on. We aim to meet the community where they are and offer all the spiritual and emotional support we can.  

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Weekday Homeless Ministry 

 

Several days during the week, committed members of The By Name Project visit the Dingle St. location, and other areas throughout the city, to distribute regularly donated food for the unsheltered who frequent there. This effort contributes to vision of consistency, and really caring to know people.  Over the years we've developed close ties with individuals we've encountered in Sumter and our volunteers are quickly recognized and welcomed. 

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KEY PEOPLE

Committed to the Cause

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ADAM ANDERSON

Volunteer

Adam is our former Executive Director. He continues to support and serve our community while he is on a much needed sabbatical. We look forward to his return.  

CHERYL HARRINGTON

Co-Director

Cheryl's passionate leadership and love for the community shines as she coordinates event programs and helps manage volunteer teams.

She leads planning with donors and volunteers to make our park events happen as well as seeking out new means of efficiency. 

RENEE ROBBINS

Co-Director

Renee is our committed, behind the scenes person that oversees all of the administration. She helps by serving wherever she can and has a heart for changing the community in a positive way.

CONTACT THE BY NAME PROJECT

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