Andrew brothers deliver new message to Portsmouth residents

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Just outside downtown Portsmouth at High and Godwin streets, people on four-wheelers and twos stopped when they heard a man shout the word free.

In one hand he held a blue umbrella to shield his face from the scorching sun, and his other hand raised to the sky as he held zipped plastic bags containing items many took for granted.

At High and Godwin, an area that was a busy commercial corridor until the 1980s, nothing is taken for granted.

Edward Bragg, who is on a fixed income, pulled into the parking lot of the historic Third Baptist Church. According to legend, during the era of slavery, the church sheltered slaves fleeing north to freedom. In High and Godwin, many residents are now fleeing poverty.

“I saw a man giving away free packages,” Bragg said. “I said, ‘Let me stop and see what’s going on.'”

From the church parking lot, the men of Andrew’s Brothers set up a white buffet-style table where they handed out packages including deodorant, toothpaste, socks and soap. The packages weren’t labeled, but the gifts delivered a message that spoke silently to young mothers with strollers, to homeless men who have aged well beyond their years, and to chronically ill people who may have experienced their best years.

Carl Williams is the leader of Andrew’s Brothers. Over the years, 10 On Your Side has shared several stories about the Brothers, who have thrown a lifeline to young men in Portsmouth who make their parents proud.

Free toiletries are another aspect of Andrew’s Brothers’ ministry.

“Thank God we are able to give back to the community,” Williams said. “This is our conversation. To let them know someone who loves them and cares for them. And it’s not always bad, bad, bad. Sometimes you have to show love by doing acts of kindness.

Mt. Herman Preschool Center teachers, along with other supporters, donated the items.

The timing was critical.

Residents with limited resources say every penny counts and every contribution counts.

Vernon Harrell of Portsmouth was proud to receive the gallon-sized plastic bag filled with toiletries and other items.

Regina Mobley: How does it help you financially when you receive items like this?

Vernon Harrell: Oh, really good, really good, and besides, I need these socks anyway.

If you would like to help the organization, Andrew’s Brothers, or need assistance from Andrew’s Brothers, contact Third Baptist Church at 757-393-9312.