Bread of Life
The
“Bread of Life” food distribution takes place on the last Monday of each month
at the Big Blue. It was started by another local church for the purpose of
helping those who are were not eligible to receive assistance, but struggled to
put food on the table and many of our River people volunteered there. For the last 8 years this ministry has been
under the direction of the River.
Each month, anywhere from 125-175 families are given free food that they can take home and feed their families with. The food ranges from perishable items (fruits, vegetables, bread, etc.) to non-perishable items (canned & boxed foods). Boxes are not pre-packaged. They are able to go through the line and pick items their own items. By doing it this way, they get items that they will actually use. They receive a good variety and quite a bit of it too! Anyone is welcome to come and receive a box. We believe that if they’re going to take the time to come and stand in line, sometimes up to two hours, they need it!
We have an amazing group of about 20-30 volunteers who serve passionately each month. Without them, this ministry would not exist. It is amazing to watch the volunteers interact with the people who come through the lines. Sometimes they stop to pray with them, sometimes a hug or a smile is all they are searching for, but our number one goal is that they see the love of Jesus in us, and want to experience it too. We believe that when we are obedient to God in serving other people, He gives us far more blessings than we can ever give in return.
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something
to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I
was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Matthew 25:35-36
