LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A small local ministry is hoping to make a big impact this holiday season by helping families put food on the table.
Com_UNITY Ministries held a food box distribution on Monday, providing up to 15 families with boxes filled with a variety of nonperishable food items. The items were collected through a recent food drive organized by the ministry. There were no income or participation requirements to receive a food box. Organizers said individuals only needed to show an ID, emphasizing that the goal was to remove barriers and help anyone in need.
Leaders with Com_UNITY Ministries say their mission is simply to serve where they can and encourage others in the community to get involved. Mary Blanche Hengstler of Com_UNITY Ministries said the group also invites the public to take part in its weekly gatherings.
Mary Blanche Hengstler Com_UNITY Ministries, "We welcome anybody to come out on Monday nights for praise and prayer. Here we're in the warm at Rigali's. You know, you get some good food if you want to buy a meal. You know, sit down and have a meal. I always come in early, but we're at 6:30pm to, usually about 7:30pm or 7:45pm at the latest."
Those who received food boxes were also given a raffle ticket for a chance to win a frozen turkey. To be eligible for the drawing, participants must attend Monday night’s praise and prayer gathering at Rigali’s Pizza Village.
Organizers say efforts like the food distribution and weekly gatherings reflect the ministry’s commitment to supporting both the physical and spiritual needs of the community, especially during the holiday season.
