Shiloh Feeds the Hungry

by Meghan Dombrink-Green

The Mercy Ministry of Shiloh Christian Fellowship, continuing a 20-year tradition, provides food for the hungry in the Laurel area. In 2002 they provided emergency food boxes for over 4,000 local families, according to volunteer Judy Moore. They helped 137 families in December alone, in addition to hosting their annual Christmas dinner, a combination feast and gift-giving celebration. Working with a number of local and government groups such as Alameda County Social Services, Children's Hospital, Black Infant Health Program, La Clínica de la Raza, and numerous others, Shiloh distributes thousands of pounds of food a year.

Shiloh's Mercy Ministry buys food from the Alameda County Food Bank twice a week, the Stockton food bank once a week, and receives shipments from the United States Department of Agriculture once a month. In addition to food from the food banks, both Safeway and Albertson's stores have authorized Mercy Ministry to pick up selected merchandise. Individuals on Social Security obtain groceries, including fresh produce, canned goods, and staples, by being referred by various government services or agencies. Because the ministry distributes government food, workers must follow specific nutritional guidelines.

Emergency food boxes are created specifically for each person or family. The food packers take into account the number and age of the family members, ethnicity, and special needs or disabilities. "Emergency" does not mean natural disaster, though Shiloh is designated by the Red Cross as a distribution center in the event of a disaster. Shiloh provides an emergency box when an agency recommends a client. That person usually needs food immediately and cannot wait until food stamps or Social Security checks arrive.

The first way a family obtains groceries is through referral from an agency, meaning the food is free. Those who can afford to pay something for the food can take advantage of the Value "25/75" Program. A client pays $25 to receive more than $75 worth of groceries in return. This program allows the recipient to list food preferences and receive fresh produce. In addition, this offers pride in being able to pay for the groceries.

While the Mercy Ministry generally serves families, individuals and the homeless are equally able to receive aid. Clients find it easy to pick up the groceries since Mercy Ministries is located along the AC Transit bus line #14. Monday through Friday, the volunteers work from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; food distribution occurs from 1 to 3:45 p.m. Mornings are spent sorting food, packaging emergency boxes, and handling paperwork. Occasionally, the volunteers are able to use their company connections. In the past, these connections have provided special treats such as Noah's bagels or Starbucks coffee about once a week.

While many of the volunteers are seniors from Shiloh Christian Fellowship, they are far from alone. Community members make up approximately 25 percent of those helping the cause. Since much of the food is distributed within the neighborhood, this helps feed the community and boost morale. High school students have also worked at Mercy Ministries to fulfill a community-service requirement, with some continuing to work even after completing their requirement.

This vital program can trace its roots back some 20 years. Originating in a building at the corner of Maple Avenue and School Street, the program distributed government commodities to local people. With the help of a dedicated community member, the late Wally Brothers, the ministry expanded. Brothers worked to improve what Shiloh had started, donating both time and land to the ministry.

While the program is fortunate to have regular volunteers, a leaflet at Shiloh asking for donations of time and money reflects the increasing demand of their services. The number offamilies in need continues to increase. Donations are not always limited to food. During March and April of this year, donations to Mercy Ministries of $25 or over will be matched by a foundation, enabling the program to assist even more families in need. Anyone wishing to make a donation or to volunteer should contact Shiloh Mercy Ministries at 436-0390. As one volunteer emphasized, the Mercy Ministry is not just about giving food but about teaching how to feed and sustain people.