By John Howell Sr.
The Convoy of Hope scheduled to distribute free food, services and spiritual counseling at the Batesville Civic Center Saturday, April 23, needs additional volunteers.
The first Convoy of Hope visit to Batesville in 2011 brought out 3,000 to 3,500 recipients and 750 volunteers to help with the distribution. Organizers of this year’s event expect at least as many people seeking the free goods and services.
One hundred special volunteers will be needed for site set-up on Friday and Saturday, April 22 and 23 to set up fencing, tables, chairs, electrical power, banners and signs and special construction projects.
“This Convoy of Hope event is a way that our community can rise above the current strife and conflict that is rearing up in the national political scene,” Convoy spokesman John Howell Jr. said. “The Convoy of Hope is a way for us to show that a focus on God’s love and a focus on God’s answers for life’s problems that are presented in His Word can bring a county together, even in troubled times.”  
The continual prayers of volunteers are needed daily with special emphasis at mealtimes when Convoy planners ask that the poor, needy and hungry in the community be remembered.
Lunch will be provided to recipients at the event along with groceries to take home, according to Batesville Convoy of Hope organizers. Free services will include health screenings, jobs and career services, distribution of children’s shoes, haircuts, family portraits, kids games, activities and music and prayer and spiritual counsel.
A volunteer rally will be held Friday, April 22 at the Batesville First Baptist Church at 7 p.m.
Dr. Robert Smith Jr. of Beeson Divinity School will lead spiritual rallies in the Batesville Civic Center Saturday and Sunday evenings, April 23 and 24, starting at 7 p.m.
For additional information, call 662-934-1470 or visit convoyofhope.org/batesville.