This past week, families, food banks, and food pantries across the country have been thrown into confusion about the status of SNAP benefits. There has been plenty of finger-pointing in Washington, D.C. over this issue – probably more than enough finger-pointing. Suffice it to say that the very idea that the nation who has had the largest economy for the longest period in modern times still has inhabitants who are food-insecure baffles me. Maybe I’m not the only one who feels this way.
As of the time I am writing this on Friday, a court has ordered the government to fully fund SNAP benefits and emergency food assistance – government shutdown or no government shutdown.
But also, as of today, our Deacons are preparing to give nearly $9,000 in Market Basket gift cards to people in need, AND because more help is needed, our Mission Committee has been in touch with two of our key partners who feed hungry people on a regular basis.
First, thankfully, The Bedford Community Food Pantry (which we house in our building) is doing very well, food-wise. Scouting for Food is taking place this weekend and there are several other food drives going. They will let us know when they need food. See below for a list of non-food items that would be helpful, though.
Second, Families in Transition in Manchester is seeing increased use of their food pantry and are in need of high-demand food items such as:
Coffee (caffeinated)
Milk (shelf-stable)
Baby formula
Grains (rice, pasta, oatmeal)
Cereal
Canned food (tuna, beans, soups)
Healthy, nonperishable, individually wrapped snacks.
Both Families in Transition and the Bedford Community Food Pantry are in need of toiletry items such as:
Shampoo
Conditioner
Bar Soap
Body Wash
Disposable Razors
Deordorant
Toothpaste
Tooth Brushes
Laundry Soap
Dish Detergent
On Sunday, November 16, which is the day that we are celebrating God’s generosity by responding with generosity of our own, we are beginning a drive to collect all-of-the-above items.
What we are able to offer might seem like a drop in the bucket when it comes to the great needs that are out there in our community, BUT every gift will make a difference in the life of at least one person, which is a gift, in and of itself.
Thanks be to God that our congregation is in a position to be helpful and that the Holy Spirit is at work through God’s people. Thanks be to God for you!
See you in church.
Grace and Peace,
John
Prepare for Worship
This Week: “Thanks Be to God for You – And Be Thankful – Week 4”
Read Colossians 3:15-17
Read 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
Read or sing Hymn # 700 – I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me
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Preview YouTube video I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me – African American Spiritual (w/ lyrics)Preview YouTube video I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me – African American Spiritual (w/ lyrics)