CommUNITY First Programs

If you had told me that the person I would speak with most frequently–almost daily–would be a pastor, I would’ve thought you were nuttier than a squirrel’s winter stash. Yet here I am, having befriended a pastor, despite being far removed from the church and closer to a sinner than a saint.

I first met Pastor Randy Odom, 67, at Cafe 4–a vibrant hub of coffee, creativity, and community within the church after a neighbor said it was worth visiting. The crowd's diversity, spanning from young adults to seniors, created an atmosphere reminiscent of a study hall at UC Berkeley or co-working space.

Pastor Odom approached wearing loose jeans and a short-sleeve Hawaiian shirt.

He introduced himself. Handshakes barely complete, I blurted out my disbelief in organized religion, bracing for an awkward silence. But his eyes sparkled with intrigue. "Let me show you how 3Crosses works beyond Sundays," he said, steering our conversation to the "Compassion Fund."

He explained that the fund is a lifeline for those facing unexpected challenges, providing help for drug rehabilitation, sobriety programs, medical bills, and rental assistance. It’s open to everyone, regardless of faith or background. Feeling down? Let one of the 12 on-call support staff assist you in lifting your spirits. Need financial advice or budget coaching? You’re in luck—they offer that, too.

When I learned about the multitude of options available to the public, it felt like uncovering a hidden secret—a cheat code for quickly accessing help.

Hannah Blankenship, community outreach program director, emerged from the cafe clutching an apple danish. Overhearing our conversation, she flashed a warm, dimpled smile and chimed in, “Our streamlined approach cuts through the bureaucratic red tape, often completing the process in just two weeks.”

In 2022, Blankenship established the Care Portal for 3Crosses to better connect individuals facing overwhelming challenges with essential resources. Since its launch, nearly 600 families have benefited from the service in Alameda County.

"Our program is as diverse as the people it serves," Blankenship emphasized. "We assisted a refugee family from Afghanistan awaiting visas for six months by providing financial aid through our Care Portal," she shared. "We’ve also arranged professional cleaning services for an individual living in a mold-infested home."

I still had my skepticism and questioned potential hidden motives.

“We welcome the opportunity to build relationships with anyone who seeks our help, and we are honored that people trust us with their challenges. However, our main goal is to serve the people first, and we let the chips fall where they may, whether that means someone becomes part of the church or not.” Blankenship noted.

As Blankenship made her journey back to her office, Pastor Odom finished his iced latte. Rising from his chair, he offered a parting thought before leaving. "Our church and programs are for everyone," his voice conveying sincerity. "The church exists for the community, not the other way around," he added with a nod as he headed upstairs to his office, where his mission to help others remains steadfast and unwavering.

If you need further details about the Care Portal at 3Crosses, simply visit www.3crosses.church/care or give them a call at (510) 537-4690.