shared by the Halley Brooke Smith Circle of the United Women in Faith of St. Paul’s UMC

On November 10, 2023, thousands of people on Charleston’s West Side were without natural gas and water services.  This situation left many without heat, hot water and a way to cook a meal.  It started when a water main break flooded 46 miles of gas line. This situation was on the news detailing the growing desperate needs of many, including the need for meals.

Our circle was scheduled to meet November 14 with Amber Walker as the leader for that night’s program.  She initiated a plan a few days before for our meeting to provide a meal to as many people in the affected area as possible.  We were asked to bring meats, cheeses, peanut butter, jelly, bread, fruit, and snacks to prepare as many lunch bag meals as we could for people in the affected area.

During our meeting time, we gathered in the kitchen, organized the food, set up an assembly line and began our lunch meal preparation.

99 bag lunch meals were made as a result of our efforts.  Delivery was arranged for the next day.

Mission accomplished!  Our goal that evening was that the lunches would provide some relief to those needing a meal.

Our United Women in Faith’s Vision statement includes “…seeks to connect and nurture women through Christian spiritual formation, leadership development, creative fellowship, and education so that they can inspire, influence and impact local and global communities.”

Thank you, Amber, for your leadership!  Thank you to all circle members for your contributions!  Thank you, St. Paul’s, for enabling the establishment of the group!

May we continue to look for ways to extend our vision and impact in God’s name.  

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