13 members of the epic team gathered at the Valero gas station, located at the corner of 11th Avenue and Grangeville Blvd. on Saturday, November 5th.  From 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM cars lined up out into the street to receive $5 gift certificates for free gasoline.

 

 

Gift Certificates were presented in small folders that simply read, "We care because God cares."  The cards also listed this web site address.  Astonished Hanford residents responded with shock, amazement and gratitude.  When the cynicism broke down in the skeptical patrons, our team was showered with thanks and interest in what motivated us to make such an offer.

 

One woman, reported that she left her home that morning, without any cash for the upcoming week and wondering how she would get her children to school and to their medical appointments.  Some asked what we were really trying to get out of this, while others left the station still grappling with how to understand what had just happened to them.  Many patrons initially denied the free gas, skeptical of the situation.  Then, as they reached the pump, asked if they could still get one of the certificates.

 

All in all, the event caused a great number of people to sit up and take a second look at what they have previously thought about Christians and about Christ.

 

The next Community Kindness ministry is planned for December:  free gift wrapping at Target.

 

For more pictures of the gas give-away, check out the gallery.