Let the Bidding Begin

The Missing Link Street Ministry, lead by Pastor Willie Bacote is conducting an auction of a signed football by Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb. Bidding currently sits at $200; a pledge made by Mayor Tutunjian on Friday. I'm not too sure when bidding ends, the email and Facebook notification I received simply stated "Let the Bidding Begin," but the Mayor has set the bar high for the rest of us.

Proceeds of the auction will benefit the Ministry located in the North Central neighborhood of Troy to help offset the current National Grid bill. Earlier in the month Pastor Bacote emailed a notification detailing the current expenses and asking anyone who can and is willing to donate to their cause, to do so.

Since being founded roughly 18 months ago Willie and his countless volunteers have made a tremendous and positive impact in the community. Three times a week the Ministry distributes free meals to children from ages 3 - 15. The Ministry also conducted the very successful gun by-back program that removed approximately 200 guns off the streets in North Central with the assistance of the Troy Police Department and funds secured by former Senator Joe Bruno. I have partnered with Willie and the Ministry on several occasions with the North Lansingburgh Neighborhood Watch as we put together a Children's Neighborhood Safety Day and a March Against Violence on National Night Out. The programs and services provided through and in conjunction with the Ministry has the sole purpose of benefiting the children and showing them that there is another option in life other than violence, drugs, and other vices.

This is a positive and worthwhile organization in Troy that relies solely on donations and the support of the community to continue with their successes. Whether you bid on this autographed football, stop by one of Willies "Huge" flea markets at Power's Park in the summer, or simply make a donation, you will be welcomed with open arms and a warm smile, not just by Willie, but by the children and families that benefit from the generosity of the community and the Ministry's hard work. As Willie always says "Be Blessed But More So Be A Blessing In Someone’s Life today."

For more information and to contact the Ministry click here.