Angel Food Ministries is helping feed Newton families

NDN Staff Writers Turkey, hamburgers, chicken breasts, corn dogs, rice, onions, potatoes, dessert for just $25 is a bargain few can resist. Add eight 8 oz. rib eye steaks for only $18 and that is enough food for an entire family to eat for weeks. That’s what Angel Food Ministries is all about — offering high quality food for a very low price. “We knew it would be a great program and people would recognize a good bargain,” said Lisa Skinner who is helping with the nation-wide ministry that is locally based out of the First United Methodist Church. Skinner said she learned of the program from her friend Lorelea Baker, who also is helping organize the ministry at the church. The women said they felt the timing was perfect for the community, which is facing the shut-down of all Maytag operations in a matter of days. “We knew that there was a need, especially with Maytag going out and groceries have gotten so expensive,” said Skinner also noting the loss of SHARE, which had offered food at a reduced rate. Baker said she is excited to be working a program like Angel Food Ministries and offering it to her community. “I think it is a good thing for our community and I think this community really needs it,” she said. “I know there are a lot of single parents out their having trouble making ends meet.” Shawna Forst who is helping with the ministry said she was excited about the program because she knew it would have a positive impact on many Newton families including her own. “I knew my family could benefit from this,” Forst said. “I grew up in Newton so I’m passionate about helping others within my community.” The church offered its first distribution dated on Oct. 13 and is gearing up for a city-wide distribution date from 2 to 3 p.m. Nov. 17. The registration deadline is Nov. 5. People wishing to purchase a box of food for themselves or for someone else can do so by visiting the church at 2110 N. Second Ave. E. from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Sunday and 7 to 7:45 p.m. Wednesday in the church’s dining room or from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday in the church office. The church accepts personal checks made out to the church, cashier’s checks, money orders or food stamps and there is no limit on how many boxes of food a person can buy. The women also noted their is no financial requirement to be met in order to make a purchase. “It is just for people in need,” Skinner said. “It’s for anyone who wants high quality food at a bargain.”