A Better Chapter: How Catholic Charities of West TN is Changing Lives, One Porch at a Time

written by the Mr. Keith’s Team

“Everyone has a story — our job is to help get them to a better chapter.”

That’s more than just a motto at Catholic Charities of West Tennessee — it’s a daily mission. You see it come to life at the corner of Jefferson and Cleveland right on their front porch, where kindness meets need without judgment. The Front Porch Ministry is exactly what it sounds like — a physical porch where people experiencing homelessness or instability can show up and find food, clothing, dignity, and the kind of human connection that’s far too rare when someone is in crisis.

Each week, volunteers and staff serve meal bags Monday through Thursday through a community-driven sandwich program. Then on Friday mornings, there’s a warm cooked breakfast — something many haven’t had in a long time. But it doesn’t stop with food. Every Wednesday, the team runs a clothing distribution, handing out over 600 items each week. Socks, underwear, and men’s pants (sizes 30–36) are always in short supply, and since the community they serve is about 90% male, these items go quickly. When the weather turns hot, they hand out bug spray and sunscreen; in the cold, it’s Hot Hands warmers. The needs shift, but the mission never does: show up, serve, and give people a reason to feel seen again.

One man who found hope here is a Vietnam veteran. He was living on the streets until Catholic Charities helped him secure permanent housing through their Rapid Rehousing Program for Veterans — one of the only programs of its kind in Tennessee. Today, he lives in his own apartment, but he still comes back to the Front Porch every morning. “I love this place,” he says. “They changed my life.” His story is one of hundreds, but it sticks — a quiet reminder that when we care for people without condition, healing is possible. Because here, the relationships built on this porch don’t end once the crisis does.

In April, Catholic Charities launched a new initiative that’s already reshaping lives: the Shower Ministry. On the first Tuesday and Wednesday of every month, individuals can receive a 30-minute private shower and a fresh change of clothes. It’s more than hygiene — it’s restoration. The process begins with gentle outreach. Volunteers ask if someone would like a shower. It’s simple, respectful, and for many, the first time they’ve been invited to do something just for their own well-being. That invitation opens the door to trust, and trust leads to transformation.

But hunger and homelessness aren’t limited to those on the streets. Many of Catholic Charities’ clients are the working poor — people holding down jobs but unable to make ends meet. For them, the organization operates the largest mobile food pantry in Shelby County. Monday through Thursday, over 140 boxes of food are distributed daily, with ingredients designed to be cooked at home — rice, pasta, canned goods — the kind of supplies that stretch across days, not just moments. Families can access this service once per month using a punch card system, and for many, it’s the thing that keeps the lights on and their kids fed just a little longer. This ministry was created to allow people some relief throughout the month while they juggle whatever life might throw their way.

Support at Catholic Charities isn’t just for individuals — it extends to families, starting at birth. Programs like Tiny Blessings and Tennessee Strong Families provide full-circle care for new and expecting mothers. From prenatal appointments to baby supplies to safe-sleep education, the goal is to help every child start life on stable ground. Moms are supported with transportation, essentials like diapers and formula, and guidance on riding safe, feeding safe, and sleeping safe. The care doesn’t stop after delivery — it continues through the first 18 months of the baby’s life. Last year alone, more than 1,200 mothers and children received support through these programs. Many of them are then connected to housing services, food assistance, and other wraparound care that helps them truly start over. Thanks to a recent baby shower drive hosted by St. Peter’s Church, shelves were stocked with donated baby gear — proof that community love shows up in practical ways.

For women escaping domestic violence, Catholic Charities offers another kind of sanctuary: a private clothing closet created specifically for women and children. Unlike the open-air Front Porch clothes distribution, this one is appointment-only — a safe, trauma-informed space where women can regain some control and dignity after leaving unsafe situations. Here, they’re not just given clothes. They’re given compassion, privacy, and a sense of security that’s been missing for far too long.

Behind all of this work are numbers that tell the bigger story. Catholic Charities operates with a staff of just 35 and leans on more than 2,600 volunteers each year. Over 800 people have been housed through their efforts over the past 12 months. And they remain the only agency in Shelby County providing rapid rehousing to both veterans and youth ages 18 to 24. These statistics are impressive, but more importantly, they represent lives — real people — who now have a roof, a meal, a moment of peace.

And none of it would be possible without the quiet, consistent support of monthly donors. Their generosity fuels everything — from sandwich bags to strollers to utility deposits. They keep programs running, shelves stocked, and the Front Porch open for whoever shows up next. These donors might not always see the impact of their giving, but it’s written in every safe shower, every full belly, every baby born into a better beginning.

How You Can Help Someone Start Their Next Chapter

If you’re wondering where your time or resources could do the most good, start here. Catholic Charities of West TN isn’t just serving the community — they’re changing it, one story at a time. You can help write the next chapter.

Become a monthly donor and make hope part of your routine: ccwtn.org/donate
Volunteer your time and show up for someone who needs it: ccwtn.org/volunteer
Host a drive for socks, bug spray, baby items, or coats: ccwtn.org/ways-to-give
Spread the word. Share this story and remind others that there’s help right here in Memphis.

Because everyone has a story. And together, we can help them find a better chapter.

Turning the mic around: doing the right thing—the memphis way

posted by the Mr. Keith’s Team

They Talked About Memphis — Now Let’s Talk to Ourselves

Recently, Memphis found itself in the middle of a national conversation — not because of our music, our food, or even our Grizzlies. This time, it was about something more complex. During an episode of ESPN’s First Take, commentator Stephen A. Smith shared his concerns about NBA players feeling hesitant to come to Memphis. He cited conversations with officials and urged the city to “clean some of that stuff up.”

Naturally, his comments hit a nerve with many Memphians. Social media lit up. People defended the city they love, pushing back on the narrative being built by someone who doesn’t live here.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant responded quickly and directly. He stood up for Memphis and made it clear that his love for this city runs deep. Others joined him, voicing their frustrations and reminding the world that Memphis is more than what outsiders might think.

And they’re right to feel that way. Memphis is more than a soundbite or a headline. It’s personal. It’s layered. And it’s ours.

This Is Bigger Than a Comment — It’s a Conversation

What Stephen A. said touched a nerve because it echoed a story that’s too often told about Memphis rather than by Memphis. And while it’s easy to feel defensive, this is also a moment to step back and ask ourselves — what can we learn from this? How can we use this moment, not to prove a point to outsiders, but to recommit to each other?

This is not about whether we agree with his opinion. It’s about what we do now that the conversation is happening.

We have an opportunity to take this moment and shift the focus inward. We can use it to highlight the people, the efforts, and the values that define Memphis in ways that no national show ever could. This is our chance to remind ourselves that we already have the power to move our city forward — not out of shame or pressure, but out of pride.

Memphis: You Are Already Doing the Right Thing

In every corner of this city, people are showing up for Memphis in real and meaningful ways.

We see it in the classrooms, where teachers work tirelessly to support and uplift students — often going above and beyond with limited resources. We see it in local businesses that pour back into their neighborhoods, not for recognition, but because they care. We see it in young people starting community organizations, podcasts, and movements that inspire hope and drive change.

These acts may not always be public, but they are powerful. They remind us that doing the right thing doesn’t require attention. It requires commitment — and Memphis has plenty of that.

This city is already filled with people who are choosing to build something better. Every day, in big ways and small, we are making progress, showing love, and holding each other up.

Memphis, the World Is Watching — Let’s Show Them Who We Really Are

Now that the spotlight is on us, we have the chance to guide the conversation — not by proving ourselves to critics, but by staying focused on what matters most: each other.

We don’t need to shout back. We need to continue showing up, building trust, and strengthening our communities from the inside out. That’s where real transformation lives — not in the headlines, but in the neighborhoods, in the classrooms, in the hearts of the people who care deeply about this city.

Memphis doesn’t need fixing by outsiders. What we need — and what we already have — is the ability to lead with pride, take care of our own, and keep moving forward with purpose. We’re not perfect, but we are powerful. And our story is far from over.

Let’s call each other in — not out. Let’s talk to our young people, support our elders, celebrate our culture, and protect what’s sacred to us. Because no one else can do that for us. And honestly? We wouldn’t want them to

Keep doing the right thing — not because the world is watching, but because Memphis deserves nothing less.

Have something to say about this moment? Share your thoughts, stories, or words of encouragement with us. Let’s keep this conversation rooted in pride, in progress, and in love for the city we call home.

#DoTheRightThing901 | #WeAreMemphis | #OurCityOurStory

Why I Started Mr. Keith’s

by Mr. Keith

INTro

I never thought I’d start a brand. That’s not something I grew up thinking about.

I’m a husband, a dad, and someone who’s worked hard his whole life. I’ve been in jobs where your name matters more than your resume, and I’ve always believed in showing up, doing your part, and treating people right. That’s just how I was raised.

Over time, there was this one thing I found myself saying over and over — to my daughters, to coworkers, to anybody who was at a crossroads:
“Just do the right thing.”

That’s where this all started. Not with a big business plan — just with a simple idea that’s gotten me through a lot of life.

The Heart Behind It

I grew up around people who didn’t have much, but they had character. You told the truth. You helped when someone needed it. You worked for what you had, and you didn’t take shortcuts. That stuck with me.

Now I’ve got a family of my own — a wife who’s my is rock, and two daughters who I hope see in me what I saw in my own parents. I’ve never tried to be perfect, but I’ve always tried to be consistent. I want them to know that no matter what, their dad tried to do what was right.

That mindset is what led to Mr. Keith’s.

What This Is (And What It’s Not)

This isn’t some flashy clothing line or some motivational campaign. I’m not trying to be something I’m not. Mr. Keith’s is just a way to share something that’s meant a lot in my own life — that steady voice in your head that reminds you to keep your word, show up on time, and take care of the people around you.

The shirts, the gear — that’s just a piece of it. What matters more to me is what the name stands for. I want people to feel like they’re part of something solid. Not perfect — just honest.

What We’re Building

We’re starting small — right here in Memphis. But we’ve got some hopes for this. One of our goals is to build a space where people feel comfortable enough to slow down and read something good. Something that feels like home.

We want to share simple stories — real-life stuff that reminds you what matters. And not just from me — we want other folks to eventually share their stories too. The everyday stuff that doesn’t always make headlines but sticks with you: good people doing right by each other.

If someone reads something on our site and it makes them feel a little more hopeful or seen, that’s a win. We want people to subscribe, engage, and if they’ve got something to say — share it. No pressure. No gimmicks. Just honest connection.

And down the line, we hope to reach other communities nearby, too — places like ours that are full of folks who work hard and care deeply.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, this brand is about trying. That’s all I’ve ever done — and all I’m asking others to do. Try to be decent. Try to take care of your people. Try to leave things better than you found them.

If you’re someone who believes in that — welcome.
If you’re trying your best every day — you belong here.

Thanks for stopping by.
I appreciate your time more than you know.

— Mr. Keith

"The right thing isn’t always the easy thing. Do it anyway."
— Mr. Keith

Stay connected with us for more community initiatives, events, and ways we’re working to Do The Right Thing.

#TeamMrKeiths
#DoTheRightThing
#MyWhy
#DoItAnyway

Shining a Light on Talent: Mr. Keith’s Sponsors FireFly’s The Wizard of Oz

Posted on May 23, 2025 by The Mr. Keith's Team

Doing the Right Thing, One Spotlight at a Time

At Mr. Keith’s, our mission is simple: Do The Right Thing — and that means showing up for our community in meaningful ways. On May 9th, we had the incredible opportunity to do just that by sponsoring FireFly’s newest theater production of The Wizard of Oz.

About FireFly

FireFly is a local nonprofit that creates magical outdoor theatre performance opportunities for young, aspiring actors — and this show was a perfect reminder of just how powerful creativity and community can be. From dazzling costumes to heartfelt performances, the kids lit up the stage and reminded us that talent lives everywhere — it just needs a spotlight. And thanks to the incredible team at FireFly, these young performers are getting the stage they deserve.

Our Contribution

As part of our sponsorship, Mr. Keith’s contributed to support future productions and donated 20 cases of water to help keep the cast, crew, and audience refreshed during the event. Supporting a cause like this — one that builds confidence, encourages expression, and brings people together — aligns perfectly with our mission to always do the right thing. Every contribution helps FireFly continue to fund costumes, set designs, and everything else that makes their productions shine.

Why It Matters

This event was extra special for us because it was our first official community sponsorship. Seeing our name associated with something so uplifting and joyful reminded us why we started Mr. Keith’s in the first place — to make a positive impact, however we can. It was a chance to not only support a great cause but also introduce Mr. Keith’s to a broader audience who shares our values.

Thank You, FireFly

To the entire FireFly team, the young performers, and the families who came out to support — thank you. Your passion and dedication are inspiring, and we’re honored to have played a small part in your incredible production.

We can’t wait to see what you do next — and we’ll be there to cheer you on.

Stay connected with us for more community initiatives, events, and ways we’re working to Do The Right Thing.

#TeamMrKeiths
#DoTheRightThing
#CommunitySupport
#MemphisFireFly