Melino started through a church in Newark, Ca with a group of High Schoolers who decided to take what they learned about the gospel of Jesus Christ and serving and put it into practice. What began with Saturday morning breakfast grew into consistent community with those in recovery or experiencing homelessness. From being together for a Saturday morning bible study to celebrating birthdays, Christmas, other holidays, baby showers and funerals together. 

We started with a mindset of “let’s serve them”, in turn it was us who were changed and blessed by them! As we grew in relationships and knowing one another by name we experienced our lives forming transformational peace by being together. 

Knowing we could do more to help people transitioning out of trauma environments and find greater peace, we became an official non-profit. We are expanding in providing food, clothing, community, skill training, personal development, and spiritual growth. Our goal is to create a Melino community that includes support housing on the way to long term stability. 

Our desire is not only to bring paths for healing and restoration in the outer-life, but also the inner-life. If the entire outer life is restored yet the soul remains in poverty, what eternal good have we given. Through all of Melino we speak the peace of Christ, that people may come to know Him, who is their peace. It is from the love of God that the gospel is preached, not only in word, but also in deed.

The gospel brings peace with God… therefore may the “Melino (Peace)” of God be with all in the gospel we bring.

Melino!

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Barry Taimani
President and Founder of Melino Foundation