I was first introduced to Angel Food Ministries in Georgia while directing a program for single parents and displaced homemakers after a friend said it might be something they would be interested in, as they could receive a box of food each month at a discounted rate. The following month they came into the classroom discussing what a bargain they got for $25. The ladies were saying the program was a better than food stamps because they had received meat items, fresh vegetables and fruit. This started another aspect of training as they began planning menus around the contents of Angel Food ministries food boxes.

While attending a meeting at Lilly Grove Baptist Church, I saw a flyer about Angel Food Ministries here in Nacogdoches. The flyer said I could participate at either Lilly Grove or Holly Springs Baptist Church. I chose Holly Springs because it was nearer to me. I called the church, where Kathy Stanisich answered all my questions and to my surprise, informed me it that it was not a low income food program. I ordered a box in advance, going to the church and paying the $30.

I plan to share my Angel Food box with others. During one holiday season I purchased an extra food box for a family with several children. In each box you can expect several frozen cuts of chicken, beef and pork. You can also expect one dessert, frozen vegetables and at least one fresh vegetable or/and fruit. You will receive from $60 to $80 worth of food for $30. The economy has placed a financial burden on many families with children and seniors with limited income. Angel Food will certainly help stretch your food budget.

Kathy Stanisich and other members of Holly Spring Church have always greeted me warmly. When Kathy asked what I thought of Angel Food Ministries, we both agreed that more people needed to know about it.

Kathy is the perfect choice as the Angel Food Ministries coordinator. She is warm, caring, and spiritually-based. She admits to having a good feeling when she has helped someone find the Lord through their spiritual sharing or just helping them with food. Until I had the conversation with Kathy, I never thought of food being a ministry practiced in churches. Joe Wingo, founder of Angel Food Ministries, was quoted in an article by Stanisich saying "God is doing wonderful and mighty works through food ministry. When we put God first churches throughout the country will be able to make a difference and bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Angel Food Ministries encourages spreading the gospel. They give churches (host sites) the tools needed not only with the basic food but with spiritual food." Stanisich further explained," A person come into the church to place an order and then to pick up the order. This opportunity serves as a connection between you and them. It is a time of ministering to them. What ever the need you may find yourself praying, crying, rejoicing and witnessing in a genuine way."

Angel Food Ministries is not like other food programs, Stanisich said. "It is more of a hands up instead of a hands out." Some food programs will give you a box of food with can goods, dry goods or non-perishable items. You pay for the food that you get from Angel Food. You do not have to qualify by filling our applications as are required by many "free food" programs.

But let me state now that food programs such as Harvest House, H.O.P.E, the East Texas Food Bank and others are good for low or limited income people. I am making the point that anyone who wants to pay the $30 and order Angel Food can do so, with no questions asked.

If people are affected by the current state of the economy and need help with their food budget, Angel Food may be a good consideration for you. Like most non-profit programs, volunteers play a major role in this mission ministry. Stanisich, a committed volunteer herself, noted that "this program would not get off the ground without volunteers. When East Texas Churches come together and show genuine love we will see miraculous and mighty works happen in our communities."

Go to angelfoodministries.com for more information. If your church is interested in becoming a host site, contact them. You can put in a zip code and find the closest host church to your area. Or call Kathy Stanisich at Holly Spring Baptist Church at 936-559-5511, Ext. 16.

Folks, I can honestly say that when I pick up my food box, I have always left that church feeling good that I am helping, whether it is my food budget, by sharing the food with others or preparing it and taking it to them. I feel the Lord has indeed blessed this ministry.

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Accolades and kudos to Commissioner Reggie Cotton and Charlotte Stokes for serving as co-Chairpersons for the recent Juneteenth Celebration in Nacogdoches. Under their leadership, funds were raised and volunteers were assembled to pull off another successful event. Thanks to both of you for a job well done. Accolades and kudos also to Cottrell McGowan and the Hanson Lake Club members for hosting a fish fry at Lake Hanson for Senior Citizens of Nacogdoches. Congratulations to the E.J. Campbell Class of 1959 for celebrating a wonderful class reunion. The local chapters of Delta Sigma Theta and Alpha Kappa Alpha sororities also

deserve kudos and accolades for programs honoring academic achievement and social achievement in Nacogdoches.