Newsletter | July
Staff Spotlight: Jose Marquez
This month, we begin Small Things’ salute to service by highlighting the work of Jose Marquez, who handles the stock (among other tasks) at the Small Things Market in Fairhill! Jose, who has been with us since June 2024, was instrumental in getting the market ready for our annual monitoring visit by Philabundance.
The visit came at a time of significant staff changes at the market. Jose, ever the stabilizing factor, reorganized the stock and readied the market for inspection. Thanks in large part to Jose’s efforts, we passed with flying colors!
Jose originally joined Small Things as an intern in June 2024 and was subsequently hired as a part-time employee in August of that year. Today, Jose is an integral part of the team that manages the market that welcomes over 1,000 shoppers every month.
Jose is very involved in helping shoppers when they come to the market at 3510 A Street. He is known for his welcoming smile and joyful disposition.
“Jose is a real pleasure to work with,” said Small Things' new program manager, Yassmin Moor. “He is always upbeat and ready to help anyone. He is a great team player.”
Jose, a resident of Kensington, is one of those serving close to home.
“It makes me very happy to help other people, because I need to give back to my community,” Jose said.
Epic Church Partners with Small Things for “This Is Love” Week of Service
Small Things is proud to once again partner with Epic Church for its annual “This Is Love” celebration — a week-long initiative focused on radical generosity, compassion, and service across Philadelphia.
Epic Church, a non-denominational church with campuses in Center City, Roxborough, King of Prussia, and online, has been a long-time supporter of our work to fight food insecurity and build stronger communities. From July 19 to 26, dozens of Epic members will serve at our Roxborough warehouse and Center City market, helping to prepare and distribute meals to those experiencing homelessness. They did the same last year, and we’re thrilled to welcome them back.
“This Is Love” is more than a campaign — it’s a movement to reorient hearts toward kindness and generosity. One of Epic Church’s goals is to be known for how its members love and serve their neighbors, and that mission aligns beautifully with the heart of Small Things.
At Small Things, we believe in the power of partnerships — and Epic Church continues to show up with energy, compassion, and a willingness to get involved where it matters most. We’re deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment to the city and to our shared mission.
Thank you, Epic Church, for choosing love in action. Your presence makes our work stronger — and our city better.
