Meet Jim Mather
Founder
About Jim Mather
Founder
It’s easy to recognize when
you’re in the company of a charismatic, confident
leader. It is also inspiring when that
person is completely driven by his faith. Jim
Mather has both of those traits. He is totally
committed to help the hungry and the homeless in
Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.
Jim understands what it’s like
to be at “rock bottom.” He is a recovering alcoholic
who has experienced the underbelly of that dreaded
disease and all the baggage that comes with it. So
far, he is winning that battle, but he knows those
demons lurk in the shadows as they do for every soul
with addictive tendencies. His faith in God
gives him all the strength he needs in his
courageous fight.
Mr. Mather heard his calling in
2008 when he noticed the growing number of homeless
people on the streets of Philadelphia. One day, he
and a friend started buying fast-food sandwiches for
the people on the street and it continued each
weekend for some time. They had to develop a better
way to reach more people. Just look at where Feeding
5000 is today and our trajectory for a bright
future.
Every day when you’re at work,
at home, with family or pursuing your passions, know
that Jim Mather is working diligently and
compassionately, to ease the burden of those who
are not currently able to help themselves. He can be
found scouting for food donations, funding,
volunteers, writing grants or finding sponsors.
Whether on the streets delivering food and clothing
or directing meal prep at Sunday Breakfast
Rescue Mission, Jim orchestrates the tasks
like a confident maestro.
When you volunteer with Feeding
5000 you will join over 300 individuals, many who
return week after week, month after month. Jim
will thank you with a great big bear hug. Some
people will give thanks in a very polite and generic
fashion. Jim grabs you and you feel his soul-deep
appreciation. When you look in his eyes you can
see the hawk-like focus…his determination
to help the downtrodden and to follow the
teachings of Jesus Christ.
- MJ 2019
Jim can be reached directly at feeding5000@comcast.net