DEARBORN — Project Dignity Detroit and the Lebanese American Heritage Club (LAHC) have been working together to help feed the needy in metro Detroit. Recently, both groups partnered up with Chef Habib Bazzi of Habib’s Cuisine to feed the homeless and provide them with clothing and shelter. 

Project Dignity has been at the forefront of bringing together Arab Americans and organizations to participate in its ongoing efforts in reaching out to the homeless and drawing attention to the issue of poverty. One anonymous donor in the community has provided a hotel for the homeless to sleep in this winter. 

Needy individuals who attended the dinner left with bags of canned goods that were packaged by volunteers and provided by Ziyad Brothers. 

The meal, which was donated by Chef Habib Bazzi, allowed the needy, groups and their volunteers to break bread and get to know each other. The LAHC has a longstanding history of helping the needy and plans on expanding its efforts. 

 The LAHC also provided warm clothing to attendees, including sweaters, blankets, hats and gloves to help them better prepare for the winter season. 

“This is the mission we began 30 years ago with the desire to serve humanity in every aspect of our activities,” stated Wassim Mahfouz, LAHC Executive Director.  “Our programs and activities aim to touch the lives of those we serve.  It is heartwarming to see our guests happy and enjoying a warm, hearty, home-cooked meal.  Many of our guests during this event were veterans who have proudly served our nation and its people…the least we can do is show them our support and try our best to provide them with assistance to make their journey easier.”

 Mahfouz helped pick up the homeless and take them to the event. He and other volunteers dropped many of them back to abandoned buildings and homes where they live. He says the LAHC is considering getting a vehicle that will be used to drive out to certain locations with food to feed the homeless.