As we begin a new year, let us reflect on how the Lord blessed us in the past and how we can move forward in 2023. The Lord put the thought of this mission project on the minds of Susan Hively and myself twenty plus years ago Unfortunately, Susan passed away this year and it is with a sad yet joyful heart that I continue this project without her. I know that she is always with the project (and me) in spirit and is watching over it with her loving, caring heart. She and I spoke many times of how Food for Thought blesses both of us – knowing that because we started the program and your diligence in contributing we have given the gift of nourishment to many single people and families that might otherwise have gone hungry. We have been told that because of our assistance, we have opened the hearts of many of the recipients and enabled them to see that there are disciples of Christ in this world doing His good works. Thus causing them to reflect on their situation and helping them to get back on their feet and letting them pay it forward for others that are now in a bad situation. With this in mind let us start this new year off by doing as Christ said “when you do for the least of these you are doing for me.”

May we begin 2023 by filling all six bins with non-perishable food items that will bring sustenance to those in need as well as thought provoking ideas that cause us to pause and remember how the Lord has blessed us and how we can bless others. This blog is being posted a week early, so it doesn't get lost in all the hustle & bustle of this Advent/Christmas season. This collection on January 1 will be going to Carolyn’s Cupboard at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and they are in need of:

oatmeal

cereal

pop tarts

canned vegetables

canned meat

hamburger helper

soup

crackers

cooking oil

rice

dried beans

tea bags

kool aid

 coffee

(Always remember these are needed items but all contributions are greatly appreciated.)

Note: There will not be a drive thrU collection on January 1 - it will be held on January 8.

For those of you that like to shop early our next collection on February 5 will go to Lacey’s Spring Share House and they are in need of:

cereal

pop tarts

pancake mix

syrup

peanut butter

jelly

canned vegetables

all types of pasta

Hamburger Helper

seasoning packets (for meatloaf, chili, etc.)

Vienna sausages

canned meat

chips

cookies

Little Debbie snack cakes

small bags of sugar, flour, corn meal and bread crumb

powdered milk

Thank you.