Decatur Cares 2011

First Baptist Church Decatur joins expanding ministry to feed Wise County children

Last year dozens of volunteers prepared food and took it to Harmon Park each Wednesday of the Summer to feed 75 – 120 children a warm lunch. In spite of the high temperatures, hot sun, and hard work, First Decatur workers provided the love of God to children who would not have had a meal. “Thanks Pastor,” said one 11 year old, “I haven’t had anything to eat in two days.” What? In our town? It is hard to believe in small town Texas that children are going to bed hungry, but it is a reality all too familiar. When 45% of the school age children in DISD are on free and subsidized lunches, there is a need. But once a week was not enough!

This year the Mayor and several churches, First Baptist, First United Methodist, and Victory Family, joined together with several ministries like W.A.R.M., the Learning Ladder, United Way and the DISD School district to provide a meal a day for children during the 11 weeks of summer. The community responded in a generous way by donating over $40,000 to provide for the food. Each Friday deliveries of food arrive and are stored. On Monday morning, volunteers arrive early to sort and package the dry goods, the frozen foods and supplements for older students. Over 200 children are enrolled in the Decatur Cares community project where they pick up the food each Tuesday. About 9am on Tuesday, the line forms as families present their program card, get it punched and pick up tickets. They proceed through the hall to exchange tickets and present them to volunteers who present the food and help them carry it to their vehicles.

Decatur Cares is making a difference by showing that any community that really cares can meet the needs around them by coming together and serving one another. http://www.decaturcares.com/