Saturday, thousands will receive free clothing, food, and even haircuts in Pueblo. The Convoy of Hope, a faith-based humanitarian organization, plans to provide many services free of charge to residents on a first-come first-serve basis.

A job fair, kid zone, and live entertainment will also be provided. There will be opportunities for people to speak with members of various religions, but organizers say no one will be pressured into joining. "There is no sell taking place here, no one is being asked to join a church or become a member of any club. This is just a demonstration of compassion," said Dan Clark, Outreach Director for the Convoy of Hope.

The Convoy of Hope was founded by Hal Donaldson. At the age of 12, Donaldson's father was killed and his mother injured when a drunk driver hit their car head on. With his mother unable to work, Hal and his three siblings were thrust into poverty, required to learn to live without many of life's basic necessities. Local churches and the community rallied around the family providing them with food, clothing and shelter. It was through the demonstration of kindness and compassion that left the impression on them to one day help others as they had been helped. Thus, the idea for the Convoy of Hope was planted and in 1994 it became a reality.

Since then the humanitarian group has traveled the country bringing their gift of compassion to communities just like Pueblo. They helped in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and now have chosen Pueblo because of the dire need many of the residents have. This week, the convoy has brought some 40 thousand pounds of groceries. Those will be given away in addition to hot lunches. The gates open Saturday morning at 10, at the Midtown Shopping Center.