Oklahoma Churches Partner to Help Homeless
Ice Angels is a network of four local congregations and a United Methodist-related organization, assisted by more than a dozen other churches, nonprofit agencies, individuals and businesses around Oklahoma City.
Founding of Ice Angels (2010): Mary and Lenny Kaplan, members of the United Methodist Church, started the Ice Angels ministry by offering water to unsheltered people under a bridge in Oklahoma City. This initiative has since expanded into a network of four local congregations and other organizations.
Expansion of Services: Initially focused on distributing water, the ministry grew to include providing food, tents, sleeping bags, clothing, toiletries, and other necessary items to those in need.
Community Involvement: Ice Angels is supported by multiple congregations, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and individuals around Oklahoma City. The ministry has become a collaborative effort, with various groups contributing food, clothing, blankets, haircuts, flu shots, and more.
Impact: The ministry served 4,480 meals last year and regularly provides meals, clothing, and other supplies to 70-120 low-income individuals weekly.
Continuing Legacy: Despite the death of Lenny Kaplan in 2023, Mary Kaplan, now 81, continues to lead the ministry. The initiative is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness in addressing the needs of the unsheltered community.
Broader Vision: Ice Angels is seen as a model of how faith communities can work together to address social issues, embodying the principle of loving one's neighbor through tangible support.
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