MOSS POINT—While the needs of the low income and homeless seem to be amplified during the holidays and when the weather is cold, but homelessness and the need for help knows no season or temperature. Just like God is ever present, so are the needs of those less fortunate.
For more than 10 years, God is Love Outreach and Ministries in Moss Point has been serving the homeless and low-income families by providing basic needs, financial support and spiritual guidance. Founder and director Candace Batiste said the mission of this ministry is to serve those in need within her local community but also supports efforts in other states during disasters and hardships.
“Our mission is to lend a helping hand and display the love God has for all mankind,” Mrs. Batiste said. “One day we hope to open a resource center in Moss Point to aid the homeless and low-income families on a full-time basis.”
Through her work, she said the greatest need for the homeless is shelter and daily access to hygiene and survival kits. Currently, the organization serves 100 homeless people and three families each month. She said the number changes regularly because they are led by the Lord in their ministry.
“The number of homeless people within our community is increasing, and several families we serve may have shelter but no access to heat, warm clothing or food,” she said, nothing the upcoming cold weather months. “We also serve individuals who live in their cars and can’t afford gas to stay warm.”
Working in ministry and taking care of others is second-nature to Mrs. Batiste as the daughter of Rev. Howard Bailey who is a long-time pastor of Emmanuel Full Gospel Worship Center in Moss Point.
“I am following the footsteps of my father in helping those in need,” she said. “I have seen him help so many families and individuals regardless of his circumstances, and he always taught us to help others no matter what.”
This time of year, the ministry provides warm gear, hot meals, blankets, and coats to those most in need. For this reason, the first project for God is Love is a community clothes and food drive for the Thanksgiving season.
“We will be giving away free clothes, shoes, jackets, and accessories along with turkey vouchers and food bags to help this holiday season,” Mrs. Batiste said. “In December, we will provide hot meals, personal hygiene kits, blankets and warm clothing to help show our love toward those in need.”
Along with this ministry, Mrs. Batiste is best known as “Coach” around the Moss Point Community where she serves as the head coach for the Lady Tiger Basketball Team. This connection allows her to share the love of service for others with the team. She said philanthropy teaches young adults the importance of making good choices in life and keeps them humble.
“This work teaches them that everyone does not have the luxury of having a warm place to stay, a hot meal to eat, or the support of family members,” she said. “I have seen how allowing the young adults has helped change their outlook on life, how they treat their parents and how to truly begin to appreciate the life that God has blessed them with.”
These experiences are an opportunity to take a look at themselves and others and to better appreciate the things they have.
“These people are fighting for their lives; they are fighting to survive,” she added.
Thanks to the generous donations of the community and its businesses, Batiste believes she will be able to open a full-time resource center in 2026 where homeless and low-income families can receive assistance on a daily basis.
“We believe God will bless us with a large shed to use as the resource center,” Coach Batiste added. “Regardless, God is Love will continue to move forward helping those in need, and I will continue with the calling and vision God showed me years ago.”
God is Love Outreach and Ministry is a 501 c 3 non-profit organization that is supported by donations and volunteers. Donations may be sent to God is Love at the Worship Center, 4500 1st Street, Moss Point, 39563, or to Batiste at 4212 Dantzler Street, Moss Point, MS 39563. All donations are tax deductible.
*Photos courtesy of God Is Love Ministry
