An ordained UCC pastor, Rev. Shannon Spencer is the founder and Director of Asheville Poverty Initiative (API) and also serves as a chaplain at Swannanoa Correctional Facility for Women. The API seeks to address poverty by facilitating opportunities where the voices and experiences of “the poor” are heard and valued. While we have various ways to try and meet the immediate needs of those impacted, these basic services are rarely able to influence or change the unjust systems that cause so many to go without in the first place. API offers opportunities for community building and personal encounters that will challenge stereotypes and decrease fear that stems from an “us” and “them” philosophy. API created a community cafe, 12 Baskets that uses 100% rescued already prepared food from local agencies. This Cafe serves as a container for conversations – a place everyone can come and eat free of charge and be reminded of their worth and purpose in this world!
Enjoy this one-hour Living Well shares about her inspiration for addressing hunger and creating a more just and compassionate society, one relationship at a time!
Living Well with Rev Shannon Spencer on AshevilleFM, November 26, 2018
