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We don’t have to look far to find an inspirational ministry with open arms and opportunities to give to others in need—Angel Food Ministries is right around the corner. Angel Food Ministries is one of the leading ministries providing nutritious meals for anyone who needs them. This ministry started in 1994 on the back porch of Joe and Linda Wingo’s farm in Monroe, Georgia. At that time, local factories were closing, leaving the Wingos’ friends and others in their community struggling financially to meet basic needs. Joe and Linda recognized the need, and Angel Food Ministries was born.
Starting humbly with two people with open arms and an inspiration to change lives, Angel Food Ministries has seen tremendous growth in the past 15 years. The ministry now provides support for people in 36 U.S. states, feeding over 500,000 families each month. They also assist over six million individuals annually—including singles, seniors, and those on disability—to meet their basic needs.
Angel Food Ministries now helps individuals in 36 states and feeds over 500,000 families each month. All because of two individuals with open arms and an inspiration to change lives.
According to their website, Angel Food Ministries provides “restaurant grade” meats, frozen vegetables, fruits, and other items which they acquire through purchasing arrangements with the “best producers/vendors of high quality, ‘name brand’ foods.” Through the relationships they have established with these vendors, they have buying power, which allows them to purchase items at costs unavailable to the general public and pass the savings on to people in need. The ministry is able to provide food items at about half price, enabling people to get what they need affordably. There are no pre-qualifications for receiving assistance, assuring that anyone in need can quickly benefit from Angel Food’s programs.
Angel Food Ministries reports that hunger affects over 37 million Americans each year. Even having a job does not guarantee that people will be able to provide enough food for themselves and their families; four out of ten people who need help are employed. With the global economic woes, an increasing number of individuals are struggling to make ends meet.
Joe and Linda started with a simple idea—to help these individuals in need—and opened their arms with what they had at the time. Then, they simply took the next step in making their vision come to life. Millions of lives have changed as a result of their inspiration to take that next step. We too can be a part of this influential ministry. Angel Food Ministries has opportunities for churches to become host sites; individuals can also volunteer at those host sites. For more details on how you or your church can join Joe and Linda in making a difference, one meal at a time, please visit www.angelfoodministries.com —Jeanne Henry
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