Wisconsin—The Northwest (Milwaukee) Church members have a passion—a passion to feed the hungry. Members have been involved with area food pantries for many years, providing baskets for those less fortunate whether they be church members or neighbors in the community. Sometimes those preparing the baskets insert tracts or perhaps a book by Ellen G. White with a prayer that the Holy Spirit uses this literature to draw the recipients closer to Jesus. During the month of November 2007, a plea was made to contribute a little extra to the pantry for the holiday season. The cupboards were becoming bare due to the distribution of food to more than 100 hungry men, women and children during the past six months.

Although money is often allocated to various other charities during this time of year, church members were generous. To ensure that every dollar spent would stretch to the maximum, purchasers for the food pantry prayed before each visit to the store. Once again, God provided a bounty beyond expectations, and the pantry cupboards were filled! Members were able to give out baskets to an additional 30 families, with plenty to spare. The extra funds will be used to restock the shelves in the next couple of months. As one church member remarked, "People get hungry in February, too, and throughout the year." Sad, but true.

The mission of the Northwest Church includes not only a willingness to recognize a serious need, but to take action and do something about it. The mission also includes plans to follow up with those in the community who received baskets and share the love of Christ with them.

Please take a moment and look around. Is there anyone in your church or community who could benefit from a food basket?

Joni Arthurs, communications secretary, Northwest Church, as shared with Bruce Babienco, Lake Union Herald volunteer correspondent