At Make-A-Day, we believe that dignity is universal, but support must be specific. Recently, our outreach team partnered with community leaders, public health workers, and mutual aid providers to bring a street outreach event to a neighborhood outside of our usual routes. It was a chance to listen, to learn, and to serve in ways that honored the strengths already present.

We approached this event not as experts or fixers, but as neighbors. We knew we were stepping into a space with its own history, culture, and networks of support. Our goal was not to replace what was working, but to build relationships and extend our care where it was most needed.

Our chefs took that to heart. For this event, they partnered with a cultural representative from the neighborhood to prepare a meal that reflected the tastes, traditions, and warmth of the community we were serving. It was more than just food, it was a gesture of respect and a celebration of culture. From ingredients to preparation, every dish was rooted in conversation and care.

Together, here’s what we accomplished:

Make-A-Day served 85 hot meals, provided children's clothing, and supported six individuals through housing and navigation referrals.
Columbus Public Health’s Harm Reduction team distributed Naloxone, fentanyl and xylazine test strips, sharps containers, backpacks, and COVID tests.
CPH Reroute provided gun lock boxes to promote safety and prevent violence.
CPH Linden Anti-Violence offered social work support, helping guests process trauma and access ongoing care.
And the community itself donated coats, blankets, books, and more, helping guests prepare for future seasons ahead.

It was a day that reminded us what true collaboration looks like. Different groups, each with unique strengths, coming together to meet community needs with respect and compassion.

When we visit a new neighborhood, we are not bringing care to a place that lacks it. We are joining a community that already cares for itself in countless quiet ways. We simply offer another layer of support, another hand extended, another reminder that no one has to do it all alone.

Our work is only possible because of partnerships like these, and the trust we continue to build with our guests and neighbors across Columbus. Whether we’re offering a haircut, a meal, or a housing referral, it always starts with the same thing: showing up and seeing people fully.

We’re grateful to the organizations and individuals who welcomed us, worked beside us, and shared their time and energy. This is what community care looks like.

Let’s keep building it together.

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A New Neighborhood, A Shared Commitment