One year after the inauguration of the Coat and Clothing Drive, and the Sufi Service Committee of Boston is as active as ever. Last week, Cambridge’s Vice Mayor – Marc McGovern , Bethel Temple of Belmont- Rabbi Jonathan Kraus,   Handel and Haydn Society representative  - Emily Yoder Reed , Stephen Blinn of Harvard University, MIT Emeritus Professor of Mathematics  Steve Kleiman,  Executive Director of Somerville Homeless Coalition- Mark Alston-Follansbee and many dedicated core volunteers and supporters  gathered at Noor Oriental Rugs to celebrate the past year’s achievements.

 

The crowd met inside among beautiful Persian rugs to share tea and wisdom alike before the official event began. Many have been donors and volunteers for years, and have nothing but love and respect in their hearts for Mr. Mo Nooraee, who has brought them all together under his mission to relieve people from poverty’s hardships. His network is wide and far reaching, connecting friends of friends, interfaith communities, and people of all walks and ages.

           
The heart of the event took place outdoors. Stephen Blinn, a long-time volunteer, facilitated the speeches, starting with one of his own before introducing Bill Bumpus, another loyal member. Both men had quite a bit to say about the community formed through this volunteer work, and how much it means to continue the mission. They also shared thoughts and on how much the Sufi Service  has grown since the Coat and Clothing Drive had opened last year. Next, Stephen introduced Mark Alston-Follansbee, Executive Director of the Somerville Homeless Coalition. He covered the history of homelessness prevention in the Boston area, which has been an uphill battle for the past 30 years. He addressed the fact that Boston area is in a “state of emergency” when it comes to hunger and homelessness, and that programs like the Sufi Service are some of the most important and necessary tools in combatting those injustices. He aptly stated that “if you fall into homelessness, it’s much harder to get back out”, which is why having access to clean and warm clothing, affordable housing, and food are as essential for people trying to stay off of the street.

           

Finally, Vice Mayor of Cambridge, Marc McGovern delivered the keynote address on behalf of Mayor Denise Simmons. Vice Mayor McGovern took a moment to note his presence at the inauguration of the donation box, and how he could not have predicted the immense, and tangible success it has had in just a year.

 

 

 

 

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