I ran out of money in Brunswick, Georgia and it caused me to get stuck. Again. I was running low on food, so I went to Victory Assembly of God Food Bank on Saturday morning.
When I showed up, I met Charles and Jane Smith, a retired couple that run the food bank. Charles told me that in January a woman had come to the church asking for food. He told her they didn’t have a food bank and she was turned away. He felt horrible.
In February, they opened the food bank to 60 families in the first week. After five months, they now feed 574 families, and they’re losing about $1,000 dollars per month to maintain the service. Their community continues to grow.
When I walked in, I noticed a huge stack of Hostess doughnut boxes, next to a stack of more doughnut boxes, next to a pile of cheap fluffy bread loaves and a large quantity of tomato soup cans. Although they offered other foods that were more nourishing, I was surprised to see so many unhealthy food choices in their inventory.
What really surprised me was the lack of protein in the food supply. However, Jane stated to the crowd, “Make sure you take a package of meat before you go.” I couldn’t take it because I lack refrigeration, and because ice is too expensive to maintain on a regular basis.
I learned that Jane and Charles purchase their food from a non-profit supplier, and I’m assuming their selection is determined by their budget. This is sad to me because they’re doing such a great service to their community. If they had more money, they could actually select a healthier stock, but things are tough and money is tight.
At the bottom of Charles’ business card, it reads, “Give and it will be given unto you. Luke 6:38 (NIV).” Before I left, Charles asked me how much gas I had in my tank. It was half full. He then sent me down to the gas station to fill up at his expense.
If you would like to donate toward their cause, you may send donations to: Victory Assembly of God Food Bank, 4232 Old Cypress Mill Road, Brunswick, GA, 31520. They could use some help.
Hi Aaron — my husband and I met you last week on the road at the Maryland Welcome Center — we are so impressed with you and your project. I gave you my card — I am a professor at Hofstra University on Long Island, about 40 miles east of New York City. Would love to have you come to our University and talk to our students….your posted schedule is different than we talked about…When will you hit NY?
Warmly, Ellen
Hi Aaron, We got the article about Brunswick, Sept9.
You have been in our prayers since you stopped by The Victory Assembly of God Food Bank in Brunswick, Ga. Charlie & Jane ask me if I have heard from you. Charlie wants to know how you are doing. And for you to keep in touch with him. We are all looking forward to your writings
God Bless You Aaron.
Hope