When senior John Nguyen was young, his parents taught him an important lesson: help those in need.

“Ever since I was young, my parents always taught me to pass out food to the homeless and to be kind to them, so I always had those values in me,” Nguyen said.

This year, that lesson grew into something bigger. While passing out food with friends one day, one suggested he start an Instagram account to get more people involved. The simple idea sparked what is now a growing volunteer effort.

Nguyen created Hearts and Hunger with the help of his two brothers James and Joseph, and his two friends Jack, a freshman at Rockhurst University, and Tristan a freshman at Oklahoma State University. The group regularly gather friends and volunteers to pass out food to people experiencing homelessness in the Oklahoma City metro area.

But their work goes beyond just giving out meals.

“We don’t just pass out food,” Nguyen said. “We pray for people, we talk to them, we get to know them and hear their stories. It’s about making them feel seen and cared for.”

That personal connection is what makes the group different. While many organizations help meet physical needs, Nguyen believes listening is just as important.

“If you want to help somebody, do it with your heart not with your head,” Nguyen said.

The group’s events change from time to time but volunteers most often bring food, water, and clothing to distribute while taking the time to have conversations with the people they meet, to learn about their experiences and offer encouragement.

Nguyen hopes that by involving students and young people, the organizations will spread awareness and allow people to see homelessness in a new light.

“I would say to the people that join my organization, learn with your heart, learn with an open mind, and just hear everyone’s story,” Nguyen said.

Students interested in volunteering or supporting the effort can follow the group on Instagram at Hearts and Hunger.