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FROM COMFORT TO COURAGE: GROWING VOLUNTEER LEADERS

At Feed the Need Missions, we have the privilege of seeing incredible transformations in our volunteers every day. What begins as hesitant participation often blossoms into bold leadership through intentional training and a supportive community. Recognizing the importance of equipping volunteers for effective ministry, we have developed Feed the Need University—a monthly training initiative that fosters spiritual growth, builds leadership skills, and encourages meaningful engagement at our weekly sites.

Initially, many volunteers join Feed the Need Missions eager to help but uncertain of their own abilities to engage others spiritually or lead conversations effectively. Common hesitations include fear of public speaking, uncertainty in handling tough conversations, or doubts about their biblical knowledge. Through Feed the Need University, we intentionally create a welcoming environment that addresses these concerns head-on, helping volunteers grow from timid participants into confident servant-leaders.

Each session is carefully crafted around core biblical principles, practical leadership insights, and interactive discussions designed to encourage immediate application. Volunteers leave empowered with the tools and confidence needed to lead meaningful interactions and ministry moments. They learn the significance of asking open-ended questions, actively listening, and offering prayer, ultimately enhancing their ability to connect deeply with guests and fellow volunteers.

We have seen remarkable outcomes. Volunteers who once avoided eye contact during prayer now eagerly volunteer to lead group discussions. Those previously hesitant to initiate conversations with guests now proactively seek opportunities to connect and encourage. Each transformation enriches the individual volunteer’s experience and profoundly impacts our community outreach. Through consistent, intentional training, Feed the Need University is cultivating courageous, compassionate leaders who embody the heart of our mission.

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MOBILIZING THE MISSION: UNSUNG HEROS OF FEED THE NEED

Our ministry’s success hinges significantly on dedicated volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes. Volunteers like Johnny, Tobi, and Charlie, serving at different Feed the Need Missions sites, exemplify humble, practical service—towing trailers, setting up equipment, and ensuring every logistical detail runs smoothly. These individuals are just a few of the many logistics and equipment managers whose dedication allows Feed the Need Missions to function week in and week out.

Johnny’s consistent commitment to towing trailers and meticulously managing equipment ensures our La Grange site operates effectively. Tobi diligently coordinates equipment set up at our Bastrop Central location, guaranteeing every meal meets standards of excellence and care. Charlie, attentive and dependable, manages logistics at the Stony Point site, overseeing tent placement and meal distribution flow and ensuring a welcoming environment for all attendees. Their tireless efforts guarantee that every guest experiences hospitality, consistency, and excellence.

These logistical volunteers often may not fully realize the profound impact of their service. Without their consistent, behind-the-scenes dedication, Feed the Need Missions simply would not function effectively. Each role is critical in enabling our mission to unfold—meeting spiritual needs through prayer and gospel sharing and physical needs by serving meals and creating environments conducive to meaningful conversations.

When we collectively stack hands—from equipment managers and meal-prep volunteers to those actively praying and engaging guests—the result is a powerful expression of a Christ-centered community. We build trust and demonstrate genuine care by meeting physical needs first through lovingly prepared and served meals. This holistic approach creates opportunities to speak truth in love, fostering relationships that transform lives and advance the kingdom impact we strive for weekly.

We deeply appreciate every volunteer’s contribution, recognizing the immense spiritual and practical value of their dedicated service. Their faithful work ensures every participant experiences a tangible demonstration of Christ’s love and care.

Have you considered how your skills or willingness to serve could impact your community? If you feel drawn to serve in a tangible, behind-the-scenes way, we would love to have you join us. Whether you have experience in logistics or simply a heart ready to serve, your participation can significantly impact lives and further God’s kingdom.

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THE POWER OF IMMEDIATE PRAYER: COMMUNITY SUPPORTING COMMUNITY

At Feed the Need Missions, community is not just a concept—it is our daily practice. Recently, a profound moment illustrated this beautifully at our La Grange site. Nicki, one of our dedicated volunteers, approached Ed privately, requesting prayer for her ongoing health struggles. To her surprise, Ed immediately gathered the community of volunteers around her, enveloping Nicki in a heartfelt moment of prayer and genuine care.

This spontaneous act exemplifies our belief in immediate, responsive prayer. It challenges conventional comfort zones, encouraging volunteers to move past fears and uncertainties to authentically minister to one another. Ed’s simple yet powerful response highlights prayer’s essential role in our ministry—bringing immediate support, encouragement, and unity.

We are incredibly grateful for Nicki, whose dedication at the La Grange site has significantly impacted the mission over the years. Often working behind the scenes, her consistent commitment demonstrates how deeply she values the kingdom impact Feed the Need Missions has on transforming communities, including her own.

Such moments reflect the deeper calling of our mission: not only to provide physical nourishment but to foster emotional and spiritual healing through Christ-centered community interactions. The impact extends far beyond Nicki’s individual experience. Volunteers witness firsthand the power of prayer. Guests see genuine care in action and the broader community benefits from a strengthened spiritual fabric.

Have you ever experienced the power of immediate prayer in your own life or felt the calling to minister to others through prayer? We warmly invite you to join us. You, too, can make a tangible difference by engaging in meaningful, supportive prayer alongside a community committed to serving others.

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TRAINING FOR KINGDOM IMPACT: FEED THE NEED UNIVERSITY

Feed the Need Missions has historically conducted extensive training through lengthy workshops and conferences. However, recognizing volunteers’ busy lives and the need for ongoing, practical training, we have adopted a new, innovative approach: Feed the Need University. This monthly training model provides accessible, bite-sized sessions designed for maximum impact in minimal time.

Our recent focus has been the “Table Talk” curriculum, which unpacks the foundational principles behind our method of ministry. Understanding the “why” is crucial for volunteers, enabling them to appreciate the deeper purpose behind seemingly simple acts, like serving meals or facilitating conversations. Each session includes targeted teachings, practical tools, and three core questions that guide reflection, group discussion, and immediate application.

The sessions occur directly before volunteers begin serving at weekly sites, creating a timely opportunity to prepare and align our hearts with God’s spiritual purpose. Volunteers learn practical skills for leading discussions effectively, nurturing relationships, and ministering with humility and grace. We emphasize servant leadership and a community-focused mindset, reinforcing the belief that volunteers and guests alike have valuable insights and spiritual contributions.

Upcoming sessions will delve deeper into team-building and viewing each site as a robust platform for ongoing discipleship. We are excited about the potential of this training approach to multiply our impact, transforming the weekly cookout from a meal service into a powerful discipleship and community-building tool. The positive feedback and visible growth in our volunteers confirm the effectiveness and necessity of this continuous, focused training.

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A POWERFUL START IN BUILDING COMMUNITY TOGETHER

Since the exciting announcement of our new Bastrop Central site, we’ve already experienced incredible blessings and growth. During our soft launch, there was a tangible energy in the air—an undeniable buzz of excitement as people came together, eager to serve. With 120 volunteers joining us, including a local church youth group, the enthusiasm was infectious. This amazing team didn’t just come to serve; they took it a step further, going door-to-door throughout the neighborhood to invite others to join us for a free meal. It was a beautiful example of the love and outreach that drives our mission forward.

Before we even began training, our team prayed over the site, asking for God’s guidance and blessing over each person who will step into this place in the coming weeks and months. We prayed that everyone who comes through will feel welcomed, loved, and cared for in a way that reflects Christ’s love for us all. God is moving here, preparing hearts for something special in Bastrop, and we can feel that He has big plans in store.

Over the past two weeks, we’ve served about 300 meals with the help of around 30 dedicated volunteers. It’s been heartwarming to see familiar faces from other sites—some we haven’t seen in years—alongside new neighbors eager to get involved. The blend of new and seasoned volunteers, all united in service, has truly shown the beauty and strength of the Bastrop community. Each week, we’re reminded of the powerful message of love, unity, and compassion that God calls us to embody.

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, our hearts are focused on giving even more. We’ve been signing up families for Gobble Kits; as of now, 73 families are set to receive a kit this Thanksgiving. On November 20th, we’ll come together to distribute these Gobble Kits, hoping to spread the joy and gratitude of the season to families in need. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to share God’s love in a tangible way, to meet people’s needs, and to celebrate together.

If you’d like to be part of this special Gobble Kit distribution on November 20th or feel called to serve with us weekly, we’d love to welcome you into our Feed the Need community. Each moment we spend serving here is a chance to connect with others, share a meal, and be part of God’s transformative work in Bastrop.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support for the Bastrop Central site. We look forward to building lasting relationships, serving those in need, and growing in faith together. God is alive in Bastrop, and we’re so grateful to be part of what He’s doing here.

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FINDING PURPOSE IN SERVICE

Cherie has been part of the Feed the Need Missions family since 2010, lending her hands and heart to everything from back-office tasks to on-the-ground service at our community sites. While she’s always been dedicated, it was during last year’s Gobble Kit season that she experienced something truly life-changing.

The Gobble Kit initiative is one of Cherie’s favorite events. Each Thanksgiving, we distribute meal kits to families who might otherwise go without, bringing a bit of joy and relief to their holiday. “It warms my heart that we get to help people who might not otherwise enjoy a Thanksgiving meal like this,” Cherie shares. “I love being able to help others!”

Through her experience handing out kits, Cherie discovered that Feed the Need Missions is about more than just meals—it’s about connection, compassion, and hope. She recalls seeing the gratitude on people’s faces as they received their kits, a reminder of the impact that a simple meal can have. “Being involved at the site has helped me see people through God’s eyes and love them more,” she reflects. “I feel more open when sharing His love with others.”

For Cherie, Feed the Need Missions has become a place of purpose and growth. By slowing down and being present with those she serves, she’s found a deeper connection to the community and to her faith. Her journey exemplifies the power of serving others—how it can transform both the giver and the receiver.

At Feed the Need Missions, we are committed to creating change in our communities by feeding people physically and spiritually. Each meal we serve is a chance to connect, support, and uplift. Join us as we continue this mission, whether through volunteering, donating, or partnering with us. Together, we can build a community united by compassion and faith.

VOLUNTEER FOR GOBBLE KIT EVENT DAYS
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TWO BY TWO: WALKING OUT THE MISSION

At Feed the Need Missions, our calling is to be the hands and feet of Jesus, sharing His love and message with those in need. This is not just a mission; it is a way of life that drives us forward each day.

Before we begin serving each week at our sites, we gather for a Table Talk discussion with our volunteers and guests. This moment sets the tone for our service, reminding us why we are here: to point people to Christ and to support each other in our shared journey. A humbling truth we embrace is that we are all in need of something, and together, we discover and meet those needs.

Recently, our Table Talk series focused on the intentionality behind using an order form to take guests’ orders. While this may seem like a small detail, it is a powerful tool for fostering meaningful interactions. We emphasize that even small acts of service can have a significant impact when done with love and purpose.

After our discussions, we pair up our volunteers, pray, and send them out to engage with walk-up and drive-up guests. This approach not only provides support and encouragement but also offers opportunities to train and equip each other in sharing the Gospel and ministering to people, ultimately elevating relationships.

As Ecclesiastes 4:9 reminds us, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.”

One inspiring example comes from Lupe, a dedicated volunteer at our Stony Point site. Lupe has faced many challenges in life, but through Jesus, he has experienced incredible transformation. Despite his reservations about engaging directly with guests, an opportunity arose when another volunteer needed help. Sean, our Program Director, asked Lupe if he would assist with taking orders. Hesitantly, Lupe agreed, and the impact was profound.

By translating and connecting with a family in deep need, Lupe not only gained confidence but also experienced the joy of making a real difference. He met their immediate needs and prayed for them, and together, our group joined in prayer. This moment highlighted the beauty of our mission: one person’s willingness to serve, another’s belief in their potential, and the power of relationships to bring a glimpse of heaven to earth.

We invite you to come out to one of our sites and experience the mission firsthand. Witness the power of community, the impact of service, and the joy of being part of something greater than ourselves. Are you willing to step out and join us? If you can’t, will you pray for us and those we serve? Your involvement, in any form, makes a difference.

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TABLE TALK: CORE VALUES – WEEK 2

What is new with Table Talk?

We started a new Table Talk series covering all six of Feed the Need Missions’ core values: Jesus, Consistency, Stewardship, Servant Leadership, Mercy, and Simplicity. Last week we visited Stony Point to see how the volunteers see the core value of Jesus playing out at their site. This week we visited Smithville to discuss consistency.

Week 2: Consistency, Smithville Site

No matter where we are, everything we do must stay consistent in order to spread the mission and advance the vision of feeding people physically and spiritually. How do we stay true to this not only at our sites but with those we do life with? Here was the challenge for this week:

  1. We learned that harmony is a synonym for consistency. So, we asked, “What does it mean to have Harmony with Jesus (and with others)?” And,  “What would it look like if all our volunteers and guests had true harmony?”
  2. We asked everyone to consider this: How are you being consistent?

Here’s some of what our Smithville volunteers had to say about how Table Talk has impacted them personally and how it’s impacting their site.

Marion

Marion shared that when she first started volunteering with Feed the Need Missions, the main focus was on the physical need being providing—it was more self-focused. But as the weeks go on, she has seen the guests become more genuine, and they have gotten more involved with Table Talk. “The physical need began fading as the primary reason for returning to the site each week. That is the defining shift that has occurred in Smithville.”

She also discussed how the guided questions within Table Talk has helped her engage with others more, which has started deepening her relationships with the volunteers and the guests. She also credits the Tangen family with modeling effective ways of engaging with others. “They have provided so much consistency in how they express genuine love and care for the people here—they’re always engaged with everyone. They know how to pull people in, and I’m trying to learn from that because that doesn’t come naturally to me. I know there will come a time when I will feel more confident engaging with people where I can sit down at the table with them and have a meaningful conversation.”

Asher

Asher is one of our teens who consistently serves each week–wherever he is needed. He talked about how he has seen the guests talking and engaging more during Table Talk instead of just the volunteers, and how that shows that they are truly listening to what is being discussed. “I think the impact of being consistent with Table Talk and discussing salvation has people thinking more about how God is working in their lives.”

He explained how he has learned that you can’t judge someone’s relationship with God based solely on their body language or lack of participation. Even though someone may appear disengaged, they will eventually show you they are paying attention. “Sometimes, you’ll see someone nodding to something being said or saying something that shows that the things we discuss around the table are sinking in; when it’s easy to understand, it helps us share what we’ve learned with others.”

“I’ve also learned that there’s always two right answers to anything: Either Feed the Need or Jesus.”

Heather

Heather explained how the questions during Table Talk have been very useful in leading into conversations with guests. “I’ve had several instances where I’ve been really excited to expand on the questions with guests, which have led to some of the most meaningful conversations.”

She also talked about how consistency at the site, from set up to engaging with guests as orders are being taken, has let to building community through a meal and a time of devotion. “It’s been really cool to see the regular guests who consistently get here early every week to be part of Table Talk. It’s also been amazing to see guests, who you think aren’t listening, prove that it is really sinking in when you have a conversation with them or just seeing their hearts softening—I think a lot of that comes from the consistency of our volunteers—and we’re all participating in Table Talk together.”

At our weekly sites, you walk side by side with people, which allows you to see the needs. Table Talk helps you build and strengthen your relationship with God, and when you consistently work on your faith walk, that begins to overflow into your community.

If you have never been to a site, we encourage you to check it out. Feel free to hang around for Table Talk to experience it for yourself, and if you feel compelled, stay and volunteer. The beauty of our time around the table is that you not only spend time with the Lord but also get to encourage others on their spiritual journey.

We hope to see you at one of our weekly sites soon!

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

Colossians 3:23-24

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TABLE TALK: CORE VALUES – WEEK 1

What is Table Talk?

Table Talk is how Feed the Need Missions feeds hungry souls. Our interactive discipleship time takes place at our sites every week, where we provide free meals for anyone who joins us. Table Talk includes a practical, Gospel-centered devotion with discussion questions to encourage interaction and relationship development among our volunteers and guests.

What is new with Table Talk?

This week, we started a new Table Talk series covering all six of Feed the Need Missions’ core values: Jesus, Consistency, Stewardship, Servant Leadership, Mercy, and Simplicity. As a staff, we realized that each one of our Central Texas sites boldly embodies these core values, so for the next six weeks, we will highlight one of our sites and see how our volunteers see that core value playing out at their site.

Week 1: Jesus, Stony Point Site

He is the heart of why we serve. He is the model for how we serve each other as well as those he has called us to serve. Jesus modeled for us how to serve, and in Matthew 6:9-14 He said, Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, holy be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For if you forgive others of their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their offenses, neither will your Father forgive your offenses.”

Here’s some of what our Stony Point volunteers had to say about how Table Talk has impacted them personally and how it’s impacting their site.

Sean

“Table Talk takes you out of the busy work and helps remind us why we’re here. It’s helping our guests realize that they can come here and have their souls nourished as well as their bodies, and there’s definitely been an uptick in the number of guests who are partaking in Table Talk regularly.”

Ben

“Our weekly Table Talk has guests curious, so when they join us, they see that we’re serious about studying the Word of God, and that helps us plant seeds. Table Talk has greatly affected our church. This last Sunday, one of our regular guests, who we have kept inviting to church, finally showed up. We have other guests who have shown up, too– they want to be part of what’s going on out here.”

“Being a part of Feed the Need Missions has opened me up enough to get involved with other missions that serve local communities; serving at the site teaches us generosity.”

Debbie

“Table Talk is making me think more about my actions, like, I need to be reading my Bible more, and I need to be sharing the gospel more. It’s making me aware of what I really need to be doing. It’s also helping get to know others–who they are and what they think.”

“Today, I talked to a couple who joined Table Talk for the first time, and they told me how much they enjoyed being part of it. We made sure they knew they were welcome to join every week.”

At our weekly sites, you walk side by side with people, which allows you to see the needs. Table Talk helps you build and strengthen your relationship with God, and when you consistently work on your faith walk, that begins to overflow into your community.

If you have never been to a site, we encourage you to check it out. Feel free to hang around for Table Talk to experience it for yourself, and if you feel compelled, stay and volunteer. The beauty of our time around the table is that you not only spend time with the Lord but also get to encourage others on their spiritual journey.

We hope to see you at one of our weekly sites soon!

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 15:5-6

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REMEMBERING ALLEN

Allen’s life was a profound lesson in the power of acceptance and the deep impact of community care. At Feed the Need Missions in Bastrop, Texas, Allen found much more than meals—he discovered a family. When he first arrived, his appearance and manner made it difficult for people to connect with him. Despite his unkempt state and sometimes rough language, Allen was embraced by a group of dedicated volunteers.

Over the last few years, several volunteers visited him regularly at the nursing home, demonstrating the deep and enduring bonds they formed. These volunteers and others cared for Allen in various ways over the last decade, integrating him into their lives, taking him to church, and celebrating holidays together, filling the void of family he had felt for so long.

Allen’s journey was not without its challenges. Struggling with mental health issues, he could be tough to love at times. However, those who took the time to look beyond his rough exterior learned invaluable lessons about themselves and about love. Allen, with all his complexities, inadvertently taught those around him to love unconditionally and to meet people where they are, regardless of their circumstances.

Despite the difficulties, Allen’s kindness and gratitude shone through. His story is a powerful reminder to look past first impressions and reach out with empathy and kindness.

Allen passed away on April 8, 2024, but his legacy of teaching others about the depths of human kindness will always be remembered. His life encourages us to deepen our connections, offer our support selflessly, and cherish the community we help build.

As we remember Allen, let us continue to carry his spirit of understanding and connection forward, making every interaction meaningful and every relationship count.

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