The proJect 8 story…

proJect 8 started with $8 from Jarrett Allen. 

On June 19, 2021, Russ and Emily Allen's lives were forever changed. Jarrett, their 7 year old son, was involved in a tragic drowning accident. He gained his wings and went to his eternal, heavenly home on June 20, 2021.

Jarrett had such a tender, loving heart, especially for the needy. One day, Jarrett gave Emily $8 to hold onto for her to give to someone in need, but unfortunately, that day never happened for Jarrett this side of Heaven. One day several months later, on the way to lunch with Ashley Ruffin, Emily felt a nudge from the Lord to give a homeless man Jarrett's $8. From then on, it has been on Emily's heart to keep items in her car for those in need. Blessing bags came to mind and she thought this would be a perfect way to honor her son, Jarrett.

Russ and Emily's prayer as Jarrett's parents is that the Lord will help them find joy in the midst of the pain. 

The Lord laid it on Emily's heart to join with Ashley Ruffin and Stacey Reynolds to multiply Jarrett's compassion and $8 that he left for the homeless. This was the birth of proJect 8. 

Our mission is that proJect 8 will help those who are in desperate need of a blessing and better yet to draw near or become a follower of Jesus Christ. We desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus by serving and loving the homeless in our community and help provide their basic and personal needs. We want to not only serve but encourage others to have a servants heart like Jarrett’s.