Giving That Makes Cents launched in Broken Arrow

The City of Broken Arrow installed signs at the intersection of Kenosha Street and Aspen Avenue to bring awareness to its partnership with John 3:16 Mission for the Giving That Makes Cents campaign.

Giving That Makes Cents is a way for citizens to redirect their generosity to ensure the money they donate goes directly to support John 3:16 Mission which can provide a hot meal and a warm bed for individuals in need.

It's an alternative to handing cash to panhandlers.

Citizens who are compelled to donate through the Giving That Makes Cents campaign are encouraged to text BA to 50155. A link to John 3:16 Mission’s website will then be provided via text message. Hear more about the campaign by clicking on the photo. 

"We've heard from citizens who have expressed concern about the growing number of individuals seen standing along our city streets asking for money," Mayor Debra Wimpee said. "With this partnership, our goal is to balance citizens' concerns for public safety and wanting a solution that offers compassionate assistance to help our neighbors who are truly in need." 
 
According to Mayor Wimpee, John 3:16 is an organization the city has partnered with to help people in homeless situations for several years.  
 
"It made sense, again, to partner with them on this with their texting service that we are utilizing," Mayor Wimpee said. "It seemed like a great way to continue that giving spirit that we have in our community and make sure that it actually is going to help combat the panhandling and homeless needs." 
 
City Manager Michael Spurgeon said the city had been receiving several complaints about why it doesn't stop panhandling in Broken Arrow.  
 
"I need to mention that panhandling is a constitutional right under the First Amendment of free speech," Spurgeon said. "We believe this is a better initiative to help those with some challenges." 
 
The sign featured in the unveiling is in Ward 2, represented by Councilor Lisa Ford. She hopes this initiative supports needy individuals and prevents accidents involving panhandling pedestrians on the city's bustling roads.  
 
"How do you know if someone standing on the corner with their hand out really needs more resources?," Ford said. "I am happy that we're being proactive and letting our citizens know that you can still help the homeless; just make sure it is going to people that truly need help." 
 
Ward 4 City Councilor Justin Green is a Corporal with the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office and says Giving that Makes Cents is a great opportunity for citizens to give back to the community.

"I know everyone here in the city has a big heart, and they see the needs out there," Green said. "And, sometimes, there is confusion about whether I should give money here. Are they going to spend it on the right thing? Are they going to buy cigarettes or drugs with it? With this initiative, I know that the citizens can feel good about what they're doing by donating that money and that it is going to the right place. It's going to really help with the needs that are there." 
 
Citizens compelled to donate through the Giving That Makes Cents campaign can text BA to 50155. A link to John 3:16 Mission's website will be provided via text message. The easy-to-follow website offers several donation options to choose from, as well as opportunities for how to directly support.  
 
"Every person, regardless of their status, should be treated with dignity and respect, and that's our focus at John 3:16 Mission," said Rev. Steve Whitaker, John 3:16 Mission Director. "For someone who is hungry and homeless, one meal can help bring that person hope that one day soon they may be off the street and experiencing true life change." 
 
John 3:16 Mission provides hot meals, safe shelter, and wide-ranging programs and services. A donation of $4.50 will feed and shelter two people. 
 
"I couldn't be happier to work alongside Mayor Wimpee, Broken Arrow, and its wonderful citizens on the Giving That Makes Cents campaign to help individuals who are less fortunate and need a helping hand," Rev. Whitaker said.  
 
One hundred percent of all donations through the Giving That Makes Cents campaign go to support the John 3:16 Mission. The City of Broken Arrow will begin installing signs at various locations around the community to raise awareness about the campaign.