Riva Sharples | Editor
Share and Care, the new food giveaway ministry of Zion United Methodist Church, had a successful first indoor food giveaway on January 12.
“Though there were a few moments of confusion as we adjusted our processes and flow,” says Amy Cooper, a volunteer with the program, “The community showed patience and kindness, and we were grateful to serve so many families.”
The general food giveaway last week provided food to 111 adults, 56 children, and 45 seniors for a total of 213 served. In addition, 17 senior food boxes and 10 additional TEFAP boxes were given out.
Individuals attending the giveaway received a variety of food, including breads, sweets, fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy items, and snacks.
The next giveaway will be Monday, Jan. 26, at noon. After that, the ministry will take place on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, with doors always opening at noon.
All South Dakota residents are eligible to receive food at Share and Care, which offers three programs: TEFAP, the Senior boxes, and the general food giveaway. The TEFAP program is income-based and recipients must be within income guidelines to receive the additional food.
The Senior Food Program is for individuals ages 60 and over. Senior recipients must meet age and income requirements to receive a box every month.
The general food giveaway is for anyone who needs food and is a South Dakota resident.
The Share and Care program is a relatively new ministry of Beresford Zion United Methodist Church. It spawned out of the outdoor monthly food giveaway that happened during the past year in the parking lot of the church.
Inside, the program now has dedicated space for storage and indoor socialization space during the giveaway.
Additional volunteers are always welcome for the program.
“If you are interested in volunteering your time with Share and Care Food Ministry, please reach out to learn how you can get involved,” said Cooper. “Contact information is on our FaceBook page “Share and Care Food Distribution” or you can call Amy Cooper at 916-207-9872 or the Methodist Church at 605-763-2861 or you can email us at beresfordshareandcare@gmail.com.”
Those who wish to support the ministry financially, can make donations online at: https://secure.myvanco.com/L-ZB59/campaign/C-1679J. Donations, made payable to Share and Care Food Ministry, can be mailed to: Share and Care Ministry, 47106 298th Street, Beresford, SD 57004.