Andrews – When COVID-19 first hit in 2020, many folks were already struggling. The virus just intensified those hardships.
However, a ray of hope and sunshine sprung up from the town at the Seventh-day Adventist Church and continues to this day.
It all started with Don and Ruthie Jacobsen, who attend the church. In March 2020, the Jacobsens decided to buy a couple loaves of bread and a couple jars of peanut butter. They went into the neighborhood asking if anyone needed bread and peanut butter. Each person’s door they knocked on, when opened, stated that yes they could use the bread and peanut butter.
That day they discovered a real need in the area. After a church meeting to discuss the need, volunteers stepped up to help and created an outreach of love. They wanted to help folks within the area, which is why the outreach is known as “For Andrews.”
One person who was not even a member of the church but simply wanted to help, suggested giving out ice cream. As a result, passing out ice cream cones to the kids has become part of the ministry.
The “For Andrews” outreach program goes out every Friday weather permitting with boxes of food and other items for the residents needing them.
The Andrews Seventh-day Adventist congregation continues to donate to the ministry. They have also received support from local businesses to help with the cause, including Walmart and Ingles. Someone within the congregation knew someone at the Little Debbie Co. When they reached out for help, the company was happy to assist them.
“I’m amazed at the generosity of the people within our Andrews church. They have continuously given to this ministry and we have never lacked the funds or the food. I’m very excited we’re reaching people in need and this is something the Lord has asked us to do,” said Pat Kelley, a member of the church and organizer of the ministry.
Even Kelley’s 4-year-old granddaughter, Bristol Kemmerer, helps out by adding items to the boxes. Pastor Craig Fish’s three children also help with the project as well as other kids inside and outside of the congregation.
The “For Andrews” ministry gives away 24 boxes each week and each box weighs about 30 pounds. They serve 125-150 homes in Andrews.
“The idea is to help people and let them know that we love them and Jesus loves them, and that we are here to help them,” Kelley said.
They have been doing this every week since March 2020. On rainy days, they will go out on another day that week.
The core group is made up of about 12 people. Kelley said, “We are actually doing what God has told us to do, and that’s feed the hungry. It’s fun, and people are so appreciative.”
Food is not the only thing they’ve given out. They give according to need, which sometimes includes helping with utility bills and other essentials. They’ve even provided a mattress when that need came up earlier.
The group is not looking to bring people into their church; they simply want to help others as they believe Christ would. For details, call 828-321-5099.