First Baptist Church, Columbus
Recognizing that God has blessed them to be a blessing, First Baptist Columbus, GA serves as a vehicle to share the overwhelming abundance God has showered on them with those in need in the community. First Baptist’s Victory Mission is an outreach program located in South Columbus, where poverty is prevalent. They partner with a local food bank that feeds over 90 children and adults a hot meal during the weekly after-school discipleship program. Along with the meal, a snack bag is given to each participant as they go home. Each Sunday morning, a hot breakfast is served during the Sunday School hour.
A Food Closet distributes food each Monday and Thursday, utilizing over 60 member volunteers. Each participant receives groceries every 60 days. This program assists individuals and families in supplementing their monthly groceries, and these folks not only receive physical food but more importantly, spiritual food through counseling and encouragement. In 2017, the church served 3778 families.
The Food Closet receives food and funding through various sources: designated gifts and offerings, budgeted funds, donated foods from individuals, local markets and bakeries, USDA commodities, and a local food bank. First Baptist also serves as a local distribution point for the local Meals on Wheels program, with more than 40 member volunteers delivering an average of 120 meals each month.