Feed the Need is one of our ministries that seems self-explanatory by its name. As an outreach ministry providing home-cooked meals to those going through a life transition or a difficult time, the food they offer serves as a welcome respite from the daily chore of preparing a healthy dinner during stressful or busy periods. As Feed the Need coordinator Celesta Carlson says, “Whether they are recovering from surgery, grieving a loss, welcoming a new baby, or facing other challenges, our volunteers offer the comfort of a nourishing meal. Meals can be modified to fit any dietary restrictions or allergies of those receiving the meal.”
“These home-cooked meals, from the hands of our gifted cooks, bring comfort and nourishment to those unable to prepare them themselves. Each meal is not just food, but a blessing, lovingly crafted with time, talent, and treasure,” says Celesta. It’s not just providing the food, though. She says, “Every week, a devoted ministry member personally checks in with the families receiving meals. They listen to how they’re doing, make sure the meals are helpful, check to see if any adjustments are needed, and offer prayers for their needs. This ‘presence’ is the essence of community: awareness of one another’s needs drawing us closer together.”
Celesta points out that the ministry is rooted in compassion and Christian service. Feed the Need supports our St. Francis community’s authentic living of the Gospel message to respond to the practical needs of others with love and care. She adds that Matthew 22:37-39 says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Does Feed the Need sound like the ministry for you and your culinary skills? Check the calendar on St Francis Serves for an opportunity to prepare a meal. All the information you may need, such as dietary restrictions, likes, dislikes, and drop-off information, is outlined for each family receiving meals. All you need to do is drop off your meal on the appropriate day in the Clare Hall ‘Feed the Need’ refrigerator. You can reach out to Celesta Carlson by email with any questions at ccarlson210@gmail.com. Help to feed the need!