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Matthew 25:40 is a local charity based in Mendenhall. Their mission is to provide shelter, support, and practical resources to help homeless men regain stability and to serve the wider community through their food pantry and community meals. Most of all they strive to show the love of Christ and help people connect with a deeper relationship to God. Everyone deserves a safe place to sleep and a chance to get back on their feet. For five years, Matthew 25:40, a local nonprofit based right here in Simpson County, has been dedicated to making that a reality for men in our community who have fallen on hard times.
Founded by Dr. Matthew Pharis and Rev. Pete Carter, the group runs a shelter near Martinville that offers more than just a roof. It provides a supportive path to a new beginning. They focus on helping men who are homeless for reasons other than active addiction, offering a stable place to live while they search for work, save money, and prepare for life on their own again. They even help connect residents with local day labor jobs and provide transportation to work.
A large share of men at our shelter are older or disabled men who need extra help. Volunteers assist them in getting important paperwork like birth certificates and state IDs, which are essential for finding jobs and securing permanent housing or nursing home care.
“We believe in offering a hand up, not just a handout,” said Dr. Matthew Pharis, Director of Matthew 25:40. “In just the last two months, we’ve helped about 20 men move off the streets and into safe housing. We’re here to walk alongside them, with dignity and compassion, for as long as they need.”
For those struggling with addiction, the ministry acts as a caring guide, helping them find a faith-based treatment program that can offer the specialized help they need.
Helping the Whole Community
The help doesn’t stop at the shelter’s doors. Matthew 25:40 also runs a food pantry for anyone in the community who needs it. Every Tuesday night at 6 PM, everyone is welcome to a free community meal, a time of encouragement worship, Bible teaching and small group activity at Means of Grace Church (1286 East St., Mendenhall).
Join Us at Our Upcoming Community Event
Sunday, October 5th, you can see their work in action. Matthew 25:40 will be part of the “Church Has Left the Building” event at the Mendenhall Sports Complex Park from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. They will be giving away free food to anyone who needs it. A prayer team will also be available for anyone who would like to receive prayer.
How You Can Get Involved
This vital work is made possible by neighbors helping neighbors. There are several easy ways to support their mission:
- Volunteer: Come to a Tuesday night meal at Means of Grace Church to meet the team and see where you might fit in.
- Donate Items: They always need clothing, household goods, and non-perishable food.
- Give Financially: Make a one-time or monthly donation online at meansofgrace.net (select “Matthew 25:40 Men’s Shelter”).
Have Questions or Know Someone Who Needs Help?
- To learn more: Contact Dr. Matthew Pharis at 601-530-9875.
- To refer someone to the shelter: Call Shelter Manager Richard Belk at 601-674-1726.
- About the Veterans Support Group: Contact Rev. Pete Carter at 769-242-4006.
- About the Oct. 5th Food Giveaway: Contact Lee Week at 601-918-7331.
Everyone is welcome to be part of this effort to make our community a stronger, more caring place for all. Call one of our team members to see how you can get them back. Coming on Tuesday night is a great way to connect with us.
Learn more about our work by scanning the QR codes below: If you follow our social media you will be able to see the stories of a lot of our men that come through the shelter.
means of grace is a great place, my son Brent is there they helping him and he’s doing great, bro Rick and the other guys there are very nice and I enjoy being around them. may God continue giving them grace and the help they need