Jumpstart shows Jesus' love to youth
At 7 to 8:15 a.m. each Friday, the church welcomes students and serves them free breakfast items and lattes while adult volunteers chat with them and provide hospitality. Rev. Kim Hastings said Jumpstart is the church’s way of connecting with youth who might not otherwise walk through its doors or experience the love of God.
Volunteers greet the youth each week with a smile, crafted coffee beverage, and with the hope that they invite their peers to Jumpstart, which currently attracts about 40-60 students each week. Hastings estimates that 80 percent of the students who come to Jumpstart are not otherwise connected to Unite Church.
The youth say their favorite part of Jumpstart is the lattes and treats, but they also appreciate having an informal space where they can gather and be heard.
"There is no obligation for anyone that shows up. We just want to share the love of Jesus," said Pastor Kim.