Church members to distribute food again Saturday, July 9th
BERLIN TWP. — Those who “have” should consider giving to those who “have not.”
That was the message shared among volunteers at the June 4 food giveaway at the West Berlin United Methodist Church.
The church’s inaugural food distribution project was made possible through a collaboration between Heaven Sent Ministries and the Eastern Michigan Food Bank in Flint. Pastor Chris Titus and wife, Gina, were pleased to be able to host the church’s first-ever food giveaway.
They acknowledged the dozens of volunteers, including the participation of Armada Methodist Church and a Christian youth group.
Volunteers of all ages were on hand for the June 4 food giveaway at West Berlin United Methodist Church in Allenton. Organizers Pastor Chris and Gina Titus plan another on Saturday, July 9.
“Over 84 cars participated in this drive-thru event, with each car receiving enough food for three families,” the Tituses said. “Some of whom car-pooled to save gas money.
“With each family averaging about three people, we were able to serve about 747 people,” Pastor Chris said. “Given the abundance of food, other parties also received food assistance, including neighbors, shut-ins at a local senior apartment, and a men’s shelter.”
Chris pointed out that the majority of volunteers who were unloading trucks, boxing up and handing out food were from West Berlin Methodist Church.
In addition to food, those in need were offered prayers in dealing with their various struggles, including illness, loss of job, economic woes and overall frustration with the cost of goods and gasoline.
“The church wanted to find a way to give to the community that was both practical and met a definite need,” Gina said. “The turnout of volunteers speaks volumes about our church members’ commitment to to help others in the Almont, Imlay City and Lapeer County areas.
“What was especially encouraging was the number of young kids who showed up to help distribute the food,” she continued. “There were plenty of smiles from both volunteers and those picking up food.”
Chris and Gina alluded to some of the comments they heard from those receiving food.
“A woman named Barb said, “I can’t put into words the work this church is doing in helping with food shortages.” she said. “I am so thankful.”
Another woman, Mary, commented that “this kind of thing is so necessary. It is great that the church wanted to help the community because lots of us sure need it.”
Gina said that a gentleman named Dan expressed his appreciation for the church’s display of kindness and generosity.
“It is so discouraging to go to the grocery store, knowing you can’t get much for your buck,” Dan said. “The church gave food to us and I so appreciate it.”
July 9 drive-thru
Given the level of need, the Tituses and fellow church members are planning another drive-thru food distribution day on Saturday, July 9, beginning at 9 a.m.
The West Berlin United Methodist Church is located at 905 Holmes Rd., just south of the Berlin Township Cemetery.
Those wishing to pick up food on July 9 are asked to approach the church from the south on Holmes Rd. to eliminate traffic congestion at the intersection of Almont and Holmes roads.
“Just look for the little white church with the big red doors,” said Pastor and Mrs. Titus.
