Food and Shelter

Huge hearts support the homeless and hungry throughout the year

BY: Rae Lynn Payton

Food & Shelter’s work is centered around two things: food and shelter, and has been for over 30 years. Countless hours are devoted to the organization by its staff and volunteers. They have a heart for people and extend an extra hand to those most at risk: the homeless.

April Heiple, the executive director of Food & Shelter, shared that their goal is to eliminate homelessness in Norman while they work at preventing it. The organization attacks the issue at all angles using multiple tiers, working to meet the needs of each individual and family regardless of their circumstances.

“No person can live to the best of their ability if they are having to worry about how they will have access to food,” she said.

They serve nutritious meals to 350400 people daily for both breakfast and lunch. There is also a food pantry available to anyone in need Tuesday-Saturday.

The group works to make sure everyone has safe and stable housing.

“We know some have to choose between paying rent and buying food,” Heiple shared.

Multi-faceted types of housing are available including emergency housing for short-term situations, a tiny house village for those that need more time to overcome difficult hurdles and permanent supportive housing for those with significant obstacles.

Food & Shelter has kept its doors open even in the most difficult of times, including during the pandemic.

“When the pandemic first started we made the big decision to not close. We maintained every service we had available, not because we didn’t understand the impact of the health crisis but because the economic crisis that started at the same time was so significant for our community. We knew that our services would be so important at that time,” Heiple explained.

Food & Shelter pivoted in many ways to continue meeting their citizens’ needs and not allow anyone to fall through the cracks. They increased their efforts, began food deliveries and served meals outside. They sanitize, social distance and incorporate the use of masks to make it as safe as possible for all.

They struggled with the loss of volunteers during the pandemic and have had to limit their numbers as they come back, but they are still very much needed and appreciated. Volunteers help with cooking, cleaning, serving and food delivery.

They have suffered from the cancellations of events and fundraisers that support their mission financially. However, Heiple assured that their yearly Thanksgiving Day dinner is still on.

“Many would not have a holiday at all if we didn’t hold it,” she added.

Accommodations with three options have already been planned. Many families will be served catered family-style meals that are pre-ordered and can be picked up. Single adults or couples that are housed will have meals delivered to them. Everyone else, homeless or people that are socially isolated, will have an in-person meal at the First Baptist Church in Norman from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

Their Christmas Day dinner will likely work similarly, with adjustments made as needed.

How can Normanites help? First and foremost, Heiple wishes to educate the community about the truth in homelessness.