GAUTIER TO BE RECOGNIZED WITH THE NATIONAL DAILY POINTS OF LIGHT" AWARD

Haggeo Gautier will be recognized with the distinguished Daily Point of Light" award on Friday, February 7, 2003.

Haggeo Gautier runs three programs for the Christian Service Center for Central Florida: Family & Emergency Services (pantry items, clothing, financial assistance and referral), Daily Bread (serving 500 each day a nourishing noontime meal), and Fresh Start (a mens residential program).

Haggeo is a wonderful person filled with patience, compassion and dedication to helping anyone that he meets," said Robert Stuart of the Christian Service Center. His patience is evidenced in myriad situations. Haggeo greets people with a smile and a hug, and does whatever is necessary to get someone the help they need."

In addition to his duties at the Center, Gautier is an ordained minister. After taking a break" from the church for several years, he felt drawn to help the homeless find Christ and purpose in their lives. Two years ago he opened the Inner City Community Church" in the downtown area of Orlando. He wanted a place for the homeless to worship each Sunday where they would feel comfortable and welcomed. Many homeless people feel embarrassed to walk into a church where others are dressed up and look nice.

Recently, Gautier began a new project-he has opened a Friday night coffee house. It is simply a place to go for a free cup of coffee and some friendly fellowship. He said he wanted to keep the homeless off the streets and away from drugs, alcohol and panhandling.

In addition, Gautier has found time to volunteer at other organizations in the area such as Second Harvest Food Bank and Trees for Live. Gautier received the 1999 Florida Coalition for the Homeless outstanding service award for his outstanding work to the community. He gives his heart, his time and his soul to helping the homeless and needy.

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The Daily Points of Light Award, administered by the Points of Light Foundation, is given in honor of recipients who exemplify the best of volunteerism, a sense of caring and responsibility for others that connects citizens and solves community problems. Each weekday, one volunteer or volunteer effort in the country receives a Daily Point of Light Award. For more information, please visit www.PointsofLight.org.