One of the highlights of the PW Spring Retreat was delving into the history and impact of WRPC’s Feeding Ministry. This week we also wanted to share with you the results of our Retreat food drive and ideas about how you can get involved.
History and Mission of WRPC’s Feeding Ministry/Bag Lunch
Janet Pecci, founder of the Bag Lunch Ministry, provided the history of WRPC’s Feeding Ministry which was formed in Spring 2000. A small group met on a regular basis to discern how hunger could be addressed. WRPC was already serving meals to Step-Up, Family Promise (formerly WIHN), and the Helen Wright Center. The Bag Lunch Ministry was launched with funding initially from members of the congregation. Eventually the Mission Committee added $2,500 to their annual budget for this ministry supplemented by congregation members as the need for lunches continued to grow. A dedicated group of volunteers made sandwiches and bag lunches were provided every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11:30am to 12:30pm. Lunches contained an entrée such as Beenie Weenies, snack crackers, granola bar, a pudding or fruit cup, and a bottle of water. At times lunches were supplemented with homemade sandwiches and fresh fruit. Volunteers recognized needs other than food, and they requested donations of hats, gloves, socks, and scarves in colder weather. Other basic toiletry items and supplies, such as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are available. A hot, sit-down meal was offered each quarter inside to bag lunch friends and may include soup such as chili, or hot dogs and hamburgers. This provided an opportunity for fellowship and great conversation, and relationships were formed. Memorial services were held for friends Waldi (in the sanctuary) and Jeff (in the courtyard); PCM students planted a tree in Jeff’s memory by the sign with the church’s name at the corner of Horne and Vanderbilt.
When COVID appeared, the bag lunch ministry continued with safety precautions in place along with help of many younger church members. The Feeding Ministry decided to increase the amount of food served after learning that many lunch programs closed due to COVID. They worked with a deli near the church to provide heartier sandwiches to guests; this also helped keep a local business afloat. During COVID, WPRC members gave generously to allow the purchase of sandwiches. As the food costs increased during and after the pandemic, the Feeding Ministry realized a new strategy was needed to continue serving more affordable fresh sandwiches three times a week.
Kate Stryker stepped up to serve as Coordinator of the Bag Lunch Ministry in Fall 2022, when Janet transitioned to provide care for hubby George. Various options were explored to make fresh sandwiches at WRPC. It was decided to purchase a Costco membership in July 2023. Starting August 2023, lunches contained freshly made sandwiches (choice of turkey or ham), fresh fruit, protein bar, snack crackers of cheese or peanut butter, and a bottle of water. Volunteers were encouraged to bake so brownie mixes were provided. For vegetarians, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches can be made. As of April 2024, approximately 240 to 260 fresh and filling lunches are served each month.
The nutrition level of the lunches was assessed by our own WRPC nutritionist, Jeanette Sukhu. With her guidance, the amount of meat and cheese per sandwich was increased, and a high protein multigrain bread is now used so each lunch provides between 75 to 100 grams of protein. Individual packets of mustard and mayo were donated by Ryon and Frances Wilder for the sandwiches.
This ministry would not be possible without the loyal support of many volunteers. Guests have testified to the essential nature of the food program and how it can make a difference in their own survival. They add that the Courtyard is a place where they feel safe, seen, and able to sit and eat in a welcoming area.
Reflections/Actions
After all the presentations, Mary Lee Hall and Mary Thornbury lead us in reflections and actions. When asked about words or images that come to mind when thinking about hunger, we identified sadness, anger, children, older adults, soup kitchens, embarrassment, people and families begging, among others. Then we talked about what we can do, as individuals, as part of WRPC, and in the broader community to address hunger. Suggestions included donate to Feeding Ministries, Wake Relief, BackPack Buddies and Urban Ministries; start/support community gardens to feed the hungry; volunteer; donate money; support Food Banks; donations to World Central Kitchen; donations to the Turks; and continue to learn about hunger and available resources.
We believe in treating people with dignity and respect and want to ensure the lunches we provide adequately meet the person’s dietary needs. We invite you to join us by volunteering to make sandwiches and serve guests, donating baked goods, or donating money to support Feeding Ministries.
After the retreat, we learned that we collected 312 pounds of canned goods and donated $315.00 to APATT! It all makes a difference.
Thanks to this year’s Retreat Planning Team: Mary Lee Hall, Barbara Kirby, Mary Thornbury, and Susan Randolph, PW Moderator.
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