The Power of a Simple Burger: Annie’s Journey from Guest to Leader

At Feed the Need Missions, we often see God working through the simplest of gestures—whether it’s serving a meal or offering a prayer. Annie Howell’s story is a remarkable testimony to this. What began as a visit to one of our sites for food turned into a life-changing moment, and today, she stands as a leader, helping others experience the same grace she received.

Annie first encountered Feed the Need Missions during one of the most challenging times in her life. She was struggling with a 10-year battle against addiction, feeling lost, depressed, and hopeless. One day, a neighbor invited her along for what seemed like a casual food run. Curious and hungry, Annie agreed. They pulled up to one of our sites, where volunteers were serving meals.

As she sat in the car, waiting for her food, two volunteers approached, asking how many meals they’d need. One volunteer joyfully went to get their meals, but what happened next planted the seed that would eventually transform Annie’s life. Another volunteer asked if they could pray for her. Surprised and caught off guard, Annie thought, “Why me?” But she allowed them to pray.

That simple act of kindness and prayer sparked something deep within her. As Annie shared during our gala, “Oh, that precious seed that was sown that night.”

Fast forward a few years—Annie entered a faith-based recovery program, and during her stay, she often remembered that night at Feed the Need Missions. The recovery program encouraged community service, and one of her favorite activities was returning to the same site where she had once been a guest, now preparing meals for others in need. “I got to go back and prepare hamburgers and hot dogs at the same site that I was once a guest at,” she recalled with gratitude.

Three years into her recovery, Annie found herself being invited to lead Table Talk, a gospel-centered discussion held weekly before meals are served at our sites. Erin, a previous Table Talk leader, had always encouraged her, telling her that she’d be leading one day. Annie didn’t believe it at first, but eventually, she accepted the challenge. “And then it happened,” she said with joy. “Erin asked me to lead Table Talk with him, and all of that precious seed that was sown came to life.”

Now, Annie serves faithfully at our Bastrop South location, sharing her testimony and leading others to the love of Christ. She reflects on the impact volunteers have had on her journey and the countless others they serve. “Every woman who has lost her sense of self-worth is given a chance to share the love of Jesus and give back to the community.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that the small things—like a simple burger and a heartfelt prayer—can be the beginning of something extraordinary. Annie closed her speech with gratitude for everyone in attendance at the gala, urging them to continue sowing those precious seeds of kindness and faith because they have the power to transform lives, just as hers was transformed.

Annie’s journey is a living testament to the mission of Feed the Need—to feed people physically and spiritually, one meal, one prayer, and one precious seed at a time.