Dozens of mothers experiencing homelessness showered with love in Tustin

Dozens of mothers in need in Tustin were being showered with love on this special day. 

Such was the result of Operation Warm Wishes, an organization dedicated to "helping and serving the homeless, troubled youths, struggling  families, Veterans and senior citizens in need throughout Orange County, CA and the world," as detailed by their website. 

They organized a free Mother's Day brunch and clothing expo designed to draw mothers and families experiencing homelessness. 

Jorge Arroyo was one of a few cooks kept busy by firing hundreds of pancakes on the griddle, set to be transported to the Tustin Library where the brunch was held. 

He noted how he had hit rock bottom before, but kept fighting to be where he is today and in turn, help those who need it.

Many of Operation Warm Wishes' ranks are compiled of people who managed to turn their lives around after reaching their lowest points, including Tyron Jackson.

"I decided to give back and make a difference," Jackson said, detailing how he could've been bitter about his homelessness and struggles as a teenager, but decided to turn those feelings into an opportunity for generosity. 

"It's really a blessing to be a part of it," said Sally Rich, a volunteer who helped hand out nearly 200 pancake breakfasts. "It really adds a lot of joys to our holidays when we're able to help."

"It's important for me because you have a lot of single moms out here that need help and it's important for me to give back to the community," one volunteer shared as she was setting the event up early Sunday morning. "It's just a blessing. It's a blessing."

Additionally, attendees were given a chance to partake in their clothing expo, featuring clothing items for women, men and children that had been donated over recent weeks. 

Carol Lyman has been homeless for over a year, recently living in a shelter with 128 other women. She was one of many mothers on hand Sunday, taking advantage of the kindness Operation Warm Wishes provided for her and so many others. 

"I'm homeless, and I'm getting some clothes because I actually really need them," she said. "You live within your clothes when you go to a shelter."

She said that one of the most powerful things you can do is give. 

"I didn't think there was any love... but there is love in giving," she concluded.