Though Fridays are busy for former school teacher Jackie Harper, Everyday Hero host Bill Murphy met her at the Salvation Army in Tampa on a Friday.
For years on this day, she and other volunteers have provided a lunch for the homeless and underserved.
And not just any lunch: a hot, balanced meal.
“For the five and a half years that we’ve been here, we’ve tried never to give them a sandwich because we know that sandwiches are something that they come in contact with all the time," said Harper. " But a hot, balanced meal is a horse of a different color."
Those hot, balanced meals are served up with love and compassion by Harper and others like Robert, a retired member of the U.S. Air Force; Tina, who spent years with the Tampa Police Department; and Rita, who helps Harper load lunches that will go to the bed-ridden.
The Salvation Army’s Captain Andy Miller says this extra love goes a long way.
“When it gets personalized with somebody like Jackie and her team, the people have more than just a warm meal,” Miller said. “They get their spirit that comes with them as well. That she helps them. That there are people in the community that care and want them to do better.”
On average, more than 100 people will be fed each Friday. They all will also receive personal hygiene bags.
Working with her Rivers of Life Ministry, Harper says for many of these people Friday’s meal will be all they eat that day.
“It is the least that I can do to give somebody a hot meal and help make their day better," said Harper. "Help make their week better. Many of them tell me without me, without our ministry, they wouldn’t get a hot meal for the week."
Harper said many people are a just a pay check, or even less, away from being homeless. Until that changes, this is where you’ll find her.
“I’m not a hero,” Harper said. “I’m just doing my one percent in the world to make this place a better place. I would never see myself as a hero. Just an everyday citizen doing her part."