During the last few years, In My Father's Kitchen has been meeting the physical and spiritual needs of many disadvantaged people in the Syracuse area and beyond. The message of hope begins with a sandwich and bottle of water and continues with the words, "You are not invisible. God sees you!" The members of IMFK strive to meet and assist homeless men and women of Central New York. Another area of outreach is to the growing refugee community in the Syracuse area. It doesn't stop there, there are many other people who have been changed for the better due to IMFK. I am one of those people that have been positively impacted in my time with In My Father's Kitchen. I have known the founders for many years through church. In the last two years, I have been blessed to come alongside this ministry. I have worked at multiple outreach events where free clothing, toys, bikes and food were given to those that attended. Many that attended the events are living in Syracuse but are originally from countries far away. It has been very rewarding to meet new people from across the world. My favorite attendees are the children. Often times, there will be a donated bike raffle. So all of the nearby children come and sign up for a chance to win their very own bike while the older members of their families pick out clothing and shoes to bring home. Meanwhile, the children are so excited and hopeful. Many have never received a gift or prize as special as a brand new bike. They come and help each other fill out their raffle tickets for the drawing. Some speak English very well, some do not, yet, they assist each other and make it work. Once each child has been entered into the drawing, and the waiting is over, the drawing takes place. A name will be called and everyone cheers for the little boy or little girl that receives a brand new bicycle. It's beautiful to see their faces! They are shocked and so thrilled to have won. Finally, they get a picture taken with their newest prized possession and then they ride home. More than receiving a bike, these kids are receiving a special message that Jesus sees and loves them! I am so glad to be a part of the volunteers that aide IMFK. I am happy to say that my 10 year old daughter is also a part of the volunteer team. I love teaching her to be a giver of not only money and things but also of her time. She loves it! I'm so thankful for the opportunity to serve the community together. We are blessed to be missionaries in our own city, thanks to the leadership of In My Father's Kitchen. I recommend that more families get involved. Elderly, retirees, single moms, single dads, young couples, teens and children all have a place in giving to and serving others. Giving hope and help to others makes our own challenges seem not so big after all. And if you are unable to be there in person, definitely make a donation of money, clothing or other useful items. You will be blessed and so will many others.
In my father’s kitchen has thought of innovative ways to help people in need. They make delicious meals for people and build relationships with them to move them inside. Their hire ground program gives them jobs to support themselves. It’s brilliant and beautiful seeing how God is working though John and Leanne!
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I met John and Leigh Ann while working for a company's fundraising program. I was so impressed by their story and how they decided to help people on the streets "come inside ". Not only that but John used his cooking skills to bottle sauce to sell to help his cause. Now families all across central New York can "eat with a purpose". Blessing to them and to all that need their help.
I volunteered for IMFK for the first time this weekend during their winter giveaway. To say this organization is incredible is an understatement. John & Leigh-Ann have the most pure hearts and our community would not be the same without them or In My Father's Kitchen.
John and Leigh Anne have become the leading example of true compassion in Syracuse. Their innovative thinking and intentionally personalised recognition of their "friends" sets the bar for all other social assistance programs anywhere.
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Having had the privilege of being a donor to this organization I have to say that their integrity is only one reason for their success. They do everything they do with excellence in the love of Jesus
Christ. They honor everyone as equals no matter what walk of life someone is at when they meet. If more people were like those who pioneered this work we wouldn't need social services with our government.
IMFK is a Spiritually guided charity of wonderful people, led by John and Leigh Ann Tumino. Everyone continues to be impressed by their work to help the homeless here in Onondaga County, and because of their organization, there are fewer on the streets here than ever before.
I have stopped to talk with some of them myself, and to date, I have learned that every one of them knows what/who IMFK is, as they are fed and cared for by this selfless organization. They actually see that someone cares, things are NOT hopeless, and that if they accept the help with guidance from the Lord, they will be all right.
Thank you and God bless you both, John and Leigh Ann Tumino and and your entire organization at In My Father's Kitchen for your compassion and for what you do in the name of the Lord. Sharon H. Cicero, NY
John and Leigh-Ann Tumino operate this organization with love and integrity. I have been incredibly blessed to get to know them and join them over the last year. This is only the beginning! There is much more to come as they lead this city into loving all people from all walks of life!
There are a lot of charities out there that claim they are bettering mankind. In My Father's Kitchen is an loving testimony of that. John and his wife faithfully show God's unconditional love to people who so desperately need it! They show the homeless they are not invisible by consistently being there to not only feed and clothe, but also connecting them with agencies to assist in getting them off the street and into housing. They also provide food and clothing for refugees that come here. There's so much more they do!! "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." My family is honored to support this organization!
I have watched IMFK save lives. The addicted with no hope now living a life that includes belief in a future. IMFK does this on a shoestring budget, unwavering belief in god, and unlimited patience. This is the most amazing organization I have ever encountered.
If I had to sum up what In My Father's Kitchen does it would be "love people". Imfk takes giving of ones self to the ultimate level. Whether it's serving a sandwich to the person holding a sign, or visiting a "friend" under a bridge just to say hello, Imfk puts their heart and soul into every encounter. I was homeless ten years ago and I know the value of a smile and being recognized for who you are instead of what you look like. Imfk shows that kind of love everyday.
You are not Invisible 10/11/2016
Thank you Tony for all your support John & Leigh Ann
In My Father's Kitchen is such an amazing nonprofit organization that is actually making a huge difference and changing lives! Supporting this organization has been wonderful because I know the items I've donated are truly being a blessing a being enjoyed by someone who needed them way more than I ever did. Thank you for helping me be a blessing to others In My Father's Kitchen!
John Tumino and In My Father's Kitchen is the reason why my Dad is alive, and sober, today. John helped my father get medical attention and treatment. The work he does keeps my father busy by giving back. Thanks to In My Fathers Kitchen, I reconnected with my dad and he finally met his granddaughter. We're beyond blessed. I couldn't be more thankful this organization exists and helps those like my father.
I have been a supporter of In My Father's Kitchen for a few years as a volunteer and a bit financially. The clothing and food give aways that they hold are incredibly well received and helpful to the many recipients. Countless hours are put forth to prepare for these events.
The work that IMFK does for our homeless sisters and brothers is done with a deep and abiding love for each of them, individually. They offer the loving hand of our Lord to our homeless friends...and it shows by how many they have been able to bring inside.
The pasta sauce they jar and sell as a fund raiser is the best sauce I have ever had. What a wonderful way to raise money for such a noble cause.
There is no other organization I would rather donate my time, talent and treasure to than In My Father's Kitchen.
When a person thinks of a charity or non-profit, they often wonder how much actually goes to the people the charity is there to serve. In My Father's Kitchen is that charity you wish all charities would be. John and his wife Leighann have dedicated themselves fully to this cause. They are the true meaning of Christians, ministering selflessly to those who have fallen onto extremely tough times. They don't just minister, clothe folks and deliver restaurant quality meals to the homeless and downtrodden, they befriend them and make them whole again. They let them know everyday and in every way, they truly are not invisible. I have met some of those they have helped and the transformation is absolutely amazing. John and Leighann are the meaning of love.
This group of individuals are working with the intention to serve people. Selfless is what comes to mind as they invest in the people that could easily be considered invisible. They seek THE LOST! Each day is considered THE DAY to bring home a FRIEND! GREAT WORK!
I only support sincere efforts in non profits where sleeves are rolled up & boots are on the streets. I don't like top heavy charities as too little goes to the cause.
IMFK, John Tumino & his team are angels among us who are helping the helpless. It's a bonus that I get to buy his amazing sauce by the case on Fridays. That's when I give him a hug & walk away with gifts to share with others. (I'm a good snob who cooks her own sauce generally)
When we only have time & energy for part of a meal like homemade calzones ~ here's the perfect compliment.
IMFK is an amazing ministry, and the hearts behind it are love, and compassion for people. John and Leigh Ann take the brokenhearted and give them more than just food and clothes. They give them vision, purpose, hope, and most importantly, friendship.
My wife and I have assisted IMFK BY donating and in helping find housing for the homeless . John and Leigh Anne truly care and believe in what they are doing. They are truly gifted vessels doing Gods work
IMFK has been such a blessing to the homeless and people in need. Our family continues to support their outreach to our community. My wife has donated many times with good clothes for the homeless , John and his wife truly love ❤️ the homeless and those in need in our community. The people they helped get off the streets is amazing proof of their success,
The heart feels what the eyes see. When the eyes see hate the heart is angry. When the eyes see sadness, the heart is tired. When the eyes see hope, the heart feels joy. Hope is what IMFK gives to those who no longer see hope possible. Love to those who no longer believe worthy, food to those who no longer have to means to eat, four walls that replace a tent, a light at the end of a dark tunnel and the will to live again. Give back, in prayer, in time, in goods, talent or monetary donations. There is nothing more rewarding than bring hope back to a person who has lost it along the way.
I have been volunteering for In My Father's Kitchen since I first heard about them back in October 2013 and I have been a faithful servant ever since. John Tumino and Reverend Leigh-Ann Tumino have a special burden in their heart for the people that others overlook/give up on/ignore--the people that for various reasons have ended up homeless. The Tuminos call these homeless people "friends" (not clients); they show them they are not invisible. In Syracuse we experience some very cold winters and our collective efforts are year-round.
The Tuminos changed their whole life to dedicate their life to pulling our friends out from the streets. John, a trained Chef and former restaurant owner, now uses his culinary skills to treat our friends to a hot meal and one on one time spent with them. Recently, IMFK released their specialty Taste & See Pasta Sauce sold at various stores including Wegmans and 100% of the proceeds go back to IMFK to build hope and change lives.
As a volunteer, my experience has been amazing. The Tuminos also show me I am not invisible. They take in consideration my strengths and gifts when they assign tasks. Each opportunity I get to give of my time, finances, or resources, I grow in spirit. Every bit of effort counts. In whatever role associated at IMFK, you are part of the main goal to help someone come out the worst experience of their life. We have seen people completely turn their life around and find hope again. I can't see myself not being a part of IMFK.
Two things stand out when I think of In My Fathers Kitchen. First is that each homeless person has a story of how they got where they are and inspite of any of that, the people @ IMFK love each person they come in contact with. Second is helping out and working with IMFK I have seen lives changed, but the biggest change has certainly been within me. I thank IMFK for making a positive difference!
I have known John and Leigh-Ann for 6 months and find them to be one of the most sincere couples to do Jesus' work that I have ever met. It only takes a few minutes of talking with them to see that they are the real thing and so devoted to the needs of the less fortunate. I have been a donor but hope to find ways to volunteer for IMFK also.
My husband & I have been involved with In My Father's Kitchen for a year as volunteers. It has to be one of the most compassionate organizations I have known. They bring value to the homeless people of Syracuse and let them know they are not invisible and let them know they are loved. John & Leigh-Ann reach out & feed them, give them clothing and if they need help getting a place to live they make every effort to provide the services that are needed. John & Leigh-Ann also minister to the immigrants that come to the community. They have provided food, furniture, & clothing. I cannot say enough about what I have seen and had a chance to participate in the many outreaches for the homeless, immigrants and communities. Nobody is invisible, each person has value and is loved!
I was introduced to John Tumino and his charity In My Fathers Kitchen, by a friend in South Africa on facebook. I watched the video's John was making and listened as he cast his vision for Syracuse, NY. I have operated a living center and children's home for 23 years housing folks just like those John meets on the streets and was touched by his commitment to those who thought they were invisible. It wasn't long and we were communicating by emails and on the telephone sharing our passion for "the least of them." Leigh Ann, John's talented wife and Abigail their daughter asked if they could come to Branson and serve us by teaching the children, preparing meals and generally lifting us up. We ended up doing what we love, which is feeding the hungry in our area and discussing how to better reach those in our communities. John has a great vision and the heart and vigor to carry it out. His service includes the hurting and displaced in Joplin after the tornado, Moore, Oklahoma just a few months ago. His new facility will allow him a greater impact on Syracuse and those who finally come out of the shadows into the light and a big dose of love, Italian style. Get involved financially, volunteering and sharing your surplus with this five star charity.
I can speak to the value of In My Father's Kitchen as the voice of those who John and Leigh Ann serve. I interact with many homeless people in our community. The response to them is always one of deep gratitude for all they do. Providing clothing, shoes, and food is just the beginning of their mission. Their real gift is showing a sincere love and care for these disadvantaged people. Many of the people on the streets have given up on a life that can be more than what they have. John and Leigh Ann let them know they are valued and loved. I believe feeling valued is where real change can begin. When people are ready to make a move, John and Leigh Ann are there to help facilitate this with human service agencies in our area. Thank you for all you do!
You are not Invisible 10/06/2013
Thank you Maria.
I have been privileged to know the Tuminos for several years and have served alongside them on many occasions. Their genuine hearts are seen throughout the ministry of In My Father's Kitchen. From the homeless under the bridges of Syracuse to the immigrants and refugees on the Northside of Syracuse, John and LeighAnn extend God's love and mercy to everyone they meet. "You are not invisible!" is not just a motto or slogan for IMFK, but it is the strong heartbeat of that ministry. The Tuminos are not only making a difference in the lives of a few less fortunate people in their neighborhood, but their impact of love is resonating throughout Syracuse, Upstate NewYork, and even as far away as India. It is an honor to serve and support In My Father's Kitchen.
You are not Invisible 10/05/2013
Thank you Carolyn we appreciate your excitement and willingness to serve those who feel Invisible. John and Leigh Ann
John contacted me after watching my two TV interviews on the night of the annual homeless census in Syracuse. He invited me to travel with him and his wife Leigh Ann as they distributed lunches to their homeless contacts in Syracuse. I was deeply moved to observe the level of their commitment to these people, by the beautifully prepared and nutritious lunches they distribited and by their generosity in providing for various needs their street friends expressed that day, for example, for clothes, hygiene products. and shoes. I encourage you to support their work on the streets and to help them to close on their new building.
This nonprofit organization is truly a gift. John and LeighAnn are amazing people doing God's work here on Earth. I was lucky enough to volunteer and donate some items for one of their giveaways. It was amazing to see how happy and grateful people in the community were for the generosity of In My Father's Kitchen. These items were needed and it was awesome to see people getting things they needed for free! This was all made possible by this wonderful organization and these wonderful people. John and LeighAnn are a blessing to the community and make our world a better place. They shower God's love on everyone they meet. I love what they are doing with all their time and effort. If there were more organizations like In My Father's Kitchen our world would be more representative of the life God wants for us.
A year ago, I was lead to John and Leigh Ann Tumino's ministry. I am a hairstylist and had found out that the daughter of one of my clients was a homeless woman who was killed in downtown Syracuse last year. They told me of how John spoke at the woman's services and informed me of things that he and his wife had done to help the homeless. My heart was drawn to them from that point. I can't believe that it has only been a year since I've met this wonderful couple. What they do for the homeless and refugee families is such a blessing. They are truly Christ our lord's hands and feet extended in Jesus name.
John and LeighAnn share the gospel of Christ in a living manner. They love with unconditional love to those who for whatever reason have lost their way. They look past living conditions, the way a person looks or the habits they may practice. These homeless people need to be recognized and friended, exactly what John and Leigh Ann do. They go to their homes, even if it is just a make shift shelter under a bridge, bring the well prepared hot lunches and a drink, help them reach agencies that assist them in a better future, encourage them to take steps to a better life. Patience is a key, first they have to build trust, sometimes it is baby steps but they keep going back. John's cute little car travels to pick up donations for both the refugees and the homeless. They truly clothe with love in action. This ministry is not only a blessing to those who receive from it but to those of us who have been given the opportunity to witness "unconditional love"! Amazing ......
In My Father's Kitchen is the epitome of Serving the less fortunate.
Their motto is "You are not invisible", we see you and love you.
This Ministry goes right to the front door of the people it seeks to help.
The Tumino's bring a homemade, hot lunch, bottled water, and clothing to the Homeless people living under the bridges in Syracuse, New York. As these homeless folks are standing on the street corners, holding signs, and being ignored by the people who pretend not to see them, John and Leigh Ann go right to these places and share God's love by listening, feeding, and praying with these people.
John & Leigh Ann work directly with Social Services to help these people receive medical attention and housing.
I have volunteered twice with IMFK and I am amazed by the deep, genuine love this Ministry has for the homeless and refugees of this city.
I have complete confidence that every penny I donate to this ministry is used carefully and prayerfully for the people in my community.
My favorite activity in life was to have random encounters with homeless people around Syracuse. I've since become disabled and don't get out on the streets much, but I was THRILLED to see what John is doing - helping the people who fall through the cracks. No matter how many agencies and programs exist, someone will still be in need, out on their own. To be able to find those people, the neediest among us, and help them up from the low places they are in, that is completely remarkable. They don't have to come to In My Father's Kitchen - "we" go and find them! So proud to have been able to donate. This is, quite honestly, the best thing that someone can do. With the love of Christ, too? PSSH! SHUT YO MOUF!
John and Leigh Ann Tumino are wonderful, giving people who are following the direction of our Lord Jesus. They continually sow seeds by providing basic human needs such as food, clothing and shelter. I volunteered at one of their clothing giveaways and walked away feeling blessed at the amount of wholesome giving that I witnessed. God bless this couple today and every day!
You meet many people like John and Leigh Ann Tumino. They have hearts of gold and truly gave up all to follow Gods call to feed and minister to those who may feel invisible.
In My Fathers Kitchen is an organization that is far beyond just another outreach. They truly are The Lords hands extended on the earth. They are also our hands extended.
They go where many are not called to go, or do not find themselves in a position to go, but through them, and through our donations we can partner with them and reach those who need it the most.
Comments ( 1 )
You are not Invisible 10/07/2013 Love you Shanna and family!