Food for the body and soul
Published: July 3, 2006
The rising cost of fuel and utilities have made it more difficult than ever for families to make ends meet, often resulting in less money being available for some of the more necessary things in life — like food.
In light of the current situation, the Pauls Valley First United Methodist Church has decided to pitch in and help local families obtain the proper nutrition they require through a nationwide food program.
“We’re currently involved with Angel Food Ministries. It’s a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief to communities throughout the U. S.,” explained local program organizer Jeanne Balcerak.
“The program began in 1994 and has grown to serve 32 states, helping thousands. We decided to get involved with them as a way of reaching out and helping the people in our community.”
The way the program is set up, once a month participants put in their order from a monthly menu for a tub of top quality food items. They pay $25 for a list of grocery items that are valued at closer to $45, saving them almost 50 percent on their purchase.
Along with the usual tub of food, participants also have the option of purchasing a monthly “special” of assorted fresh meat products at a reduced cost.
The following month, participants arrive at the church to pick up their order which is loaded in their vehicles by church volunteers. At this time they can look over the menu for the following month and place their next order then or on another designated date.
Balcerak said each tub of food purchased not only blesses the family who receives it, it also helps to provide food to families in the community who are not able to purchase their own tubs.
“Besides offering people a great deal on top quality food, we’re also able to help feed those in our community who are less fortunate by funneling some of the food through the local Samaritans,” Balcerak noted.
“For every order placed, Angel Food is able to donate food to people in our community in need. So we encourage everyone to order so we have more food to donate.”
According to Balcerak, the Angel Food Ministry takes its inspiration to reach out to others directly from scripture. And while it does seek to meet the physical needs of the recipients, it also attempts to address the spiritual aspect of their lives as well.
“Jesus is our example. While he was on earth he was the King of all Kings, yet he became as a servant and fed people so they would be able to hear his true and absolute words,” she said.
“This program is run by Christian volunteers, helping people understand God’s unconditional love for everyone. We place an Angel Food brochure in each tub of food sold or given away to help people know about Jesus and understand our ministry better.”
Balcerak noted several locations around Pauls Valley carry Angel Food grocery menus including Balcerak Law Offices, Rapid Roberts, Williamsburg Animal Clinic, Pauls Valley Police Department, Bob’s Easy Shop, Department of Human Services, local Methodist and Baptist churches as well as several doctors’ offices around town.
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