Hunger Wears Many Faces

I see hunger on a regular basis. It’s in the shaky hands wanting to open a meal before even reaching the door. It’s in the sneak appearance of someone coming through the line at Lunch Partners a second time, simply saying, “I’m still hungry.” It’s in the sobs of a mother wanting a second meal for a child coming home from school. It is also in the grateful smiles of many who work and earn enough to pay for a roof over their heads, but not enough to cover luxuries like a meal.

It’s easy to forget these neighbors in our community, but let’s remember that the hungry held a special place in Jesus’ heart. He fed them. He ministered to them. He came for the poor and afflicted. If we would draw near to Jesus, let’s draw near to those whom He would bless today.

Hunger isn’t a third world problem. It’s a first world problem. It’s a right here and now everyday problem.

We have a food drive culminating in support of St. Mark’s next week. These are the items they need include:

St Marks needs:

pasta sauce

spaghetti noodles

cereal

we are running very low on meat, specifically chicken for our larger families

hot dogs 

bologna

hamburger.

bottled water I give it out regularly. We go through a case every week. 

shelf stable milk

canned meat

Spaghetti O's

Chef Boyardee 

soups

ramen noodles

peanut butter and jelly

loaves of bread

We have zero hygiene products for our women in need of those items. 

Your kindness makes a difference. One can of food, a case of water, a package of noodles—make giving a regular family priority. Our children loved shopping for the needy. Each one got part of the total we wanted to give, and each one wore big smiles filling the shopping cart with gifts they wanted others to enjoy. Many of us give regularly to faceless people, and the gift feels much less personal than bringing the gift to those who will appreciate it. You’re invited to be a blessing! You can email extendedhands2023@gmail.com if you want someone to pick up your donation…or you can visit St. Mark’s and give it in person. My suggestion? Remember that hunger isn’t just a third world problem. Think of the hungry faces you could bless—and do so!