This is record breaking.
The Society of St. Andrew, a Virginia-based Christian charity, has recently celebrated a remarkable achievement: distributing over 1 billion pounds of food to those in need. Established in 1979, the organization began its food distribution efforts in 1983 and reached this significant milestone earlier this month.
Meg Spears-Newsome, a representative of the Society, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts that made this possible. She noted that each pound of food symbolizes the generosity of farmers, volunteers, and donors, all working together to ensure families facing food insecurity receive essential nourishment. This year alone, the Society has provided 12.7 million pounds of food to more than 1,300 food pantries and organizations across the United States.
Spears-Newsome emphasized the Christian call to action, highlighting the importance of demonstrating love through deeds, not just words. The Society actively creates opportunities for individuals to serve, fostering renewal within communities and helping those in need. She pointed out that the act of sharing food is a reflection of God’s abundance, reinforcing the belief that there is enough for everyone when resources are shared.
Lynette Johnson, the Executive Director of the Society, reinforced that this milestone was achieved through the dedicated efforts of local farmers, volunteers, and donors who contribute to the mission. The organization operates on a grassroots level, building a network of community partners who help strengthen their initiatives.
Inspired by Old Testament principles, the Society of St. Andrew encourages farmers to leave parts of their harvest for the less fortunate. This practice not only aligns with their mission to reduce food waste but also fosters a spirit of community and compassion, ensuring that those who are hungry receive the nourishment they need.