Homeless Winter Donations: Sharing Warmth When It’s Needed Most

As winter settles in and temperatures begin to fall, the men and women living in camps and on the streets face dangers that most of us will never experience. What feels like a chilly inconvenience to us—a cold car ride, a gust of wind while walking inside—can be life-threatening for someone without shelter. For our neighbors experiencing homelessness, every layer of clothing matters. Every blanket matters. Every act of compassion matters.

Those our Feed the Hunger Outreach team serves in Indianapolis often have little more than the clothes on their backs. Many are underweight, making warmth even more difficult to hold onto. Pants above size 34 frequently slip off. Sweatpants—worn over existing clothing—become a vital buffer against the cold. And simple items like gloves, flashlights, or a small tent can mean the difference between a brutal night and one that is at least bearable.

Items Needed

To help our homeless neighbors endure the harsh winter months, we are seeking donations of:

  • Hoodie sweatshirts: Large–XXL
  • Sweatpants: Medium–XL
  • Blankets
  • Stocking hats
  • Men’s jeans: Size 34 or smaller
  • Women’s jeans: Size 6 or smaller
  • Belts
  • Gloves
  • Flashlights
  • Lighters
  • Small tents

These items are not simply clothing—they are warmth, safety, dignity, and hope.

Your Compassion Can Change Someone’s Winter

If you’ve ever shivered on a cold morning, imagine facing that cold all day—and all night—with nowhere warm to go. Imagine bundling a thin sweatshirt tighter because it’s all you have. Imagine trying to sleep through freezing temperatures with nothing but a blanket that barely covers you.

For the people we serve, these donations are lifelines.

This winter, we ask you to give generously. Look through your closets. Pick up an extra item or two on your next shopping trip. Share this need with someone who might help. Each donation goes directly into the hands of someone who desperately needs it.

Your support allows our outreach team to carry God’s grace from Plainfield to the “least of these” in Indianapolis, offering warmth, comfort, and the assurance that they are not forgotten.
Thank you for your continued compassion and generosity.

Thank you, and God bless.

Join Us for the 2025 Plainfield UMC Community Fish Fry!

Since 1945, Plainfield United Methodist Church has proudly hosted one of the town’s most beloved summer traditions: the Community Fish Fry. What began as a simple gathering of church families cooking fried fish to support mission work after World War II has blossomed into a two-day celebration of fellowship, food, and faith that brings the entire Plainfield community together.

A Tradition Rooted in Service

The Fish Fry was originally created as a fundraiser to support the church’s mission outreach—helping those in need both near and far. Nearly 80 years later, that mission remains at the heart of the event. Every plate served helps fund programs that feed the hungry, support youth, and reach communities locally and globally.

When and Where

Mark your calendars for Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26 at Plainfield United Methodist Church, located at 600 Simmons Street, Plainfield, Indiana. Guests can enjoy their meals either under the large outdoor tent or through the convenient drive-thru service, accessible from Raymond Street.

Event Hours:

  • Friday, July 25: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM (Drive-Thru only), 4:00 PM–8:00 PM (Tent & Drive-Thru)
  • Saturday, July 26: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (Tent & Drive-Thru)

Delicious Menu to Enjoy

The Fish Fry menu offers a variety of crowd-pleasing favorites, including:
Our signature fried fish, crispy and golden

  • Tender grilled half chicken and crispy chicken tenders
  • Flavorful BBQ pulled pork
  • Classic homestyle sides such as creamy mac & cheese, crispy French fries, and fresh watermelon
  • Homemade desserts including pies, cakes, and cookies
  • Refreshing beverages like lemonade, iced tea and soda

Whether you’re joining family and friends for a meal under the tent or grabbing a quick and delicious dinner via drive-thru, you’ll be supporting a cause that extends well beyond the table.

Why You Should Come

The PUMC Fish Fry isn’t just about food—it’s about community. It’s a time to connect with neighbors, enjoy great meals, and contribute to vital mission work that impacts lives in Plainfield and across the globe. It’s a chance to be part of a tradition that has been strengthening our community spirit for nearly eight decades.

Bring your appetite and your loved ones! We look forward to seeing you there for great food, good company, and a meaningful cause.

Join Us for the May Mission Trip to Henderson Settlement

We are excited to announce our upcoming mission trip to Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky, scheduled for May 18–23. This is a wonderful opportunity to serve and make a meaningful impact in the Appalachian community.

About Henderson Settlement

Established in 1925 by Hiram M. Frakes, Henderson Settlement has been dedicated to improving lives through Christ-centered service. The settlement offers various community outreach programs, including childcare, youth ministries, a food pantry, senior support, a library, and more. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting these initiatives, contributing to home repairs, educational programs, and other essential services.

Volunteer Opportunities

During our mission trip, there will be diverse opportunities to serve:
Quilting and Sewing: Volunteers can assist in creating quilts and other handcrafted items to be sold in the Gift Shop, helping to offset operating expenses of the settlement.
Construction Projects: Depending on the number of volunteers and the community’s needs, we will undertake construction or repair projects to improve local homes and facilities.
No matter your skill set, there is a place for you to contribute meaningfully.

Accommodations and Costs

Henderson Settlement provides comfortable accommodations for volunteers. The cost per person for lodging and meals is $275 per week for dormitory-style housing or $350 per week for private housing. However, most – if not all – of this cost to volunteers is offset from previous donations. These fees cover lodging and meals during your stay.

Join Us

We invite you to be part of this fulfilling experience. Whether you’re skilled in construction, enjoy sewing, or simply have a heart to serve, your participation will make a difference.

For more information or to sign up for the mission trip, please contact Don Sanders at:

  • Email: dsandjs@att.net
  • Cell Phone: 317-340-5188

We look forward to serving together and sharing God’s love with the community of Henderson Settlement.