news-record.com

York Martin

Careful Hands Ministry at Triad Community Church

What he does: About a year ago, York Martin was looking for a way the college ministry at his church could get involved and give back to the community. After a little research, he found out about a group of churches who share in the effort to feed the homeless and people in need in High Point.
Every Thursday, a different church volunteers to provide and serve a community meal at Ward Street United Methodist Church. At Triad Community Church, Careful Hands Ministry, started by Martin, took on this task. He organizes a group of volunteers to create the menu, divide the tasks and have members of the congregation cook and donate foods for the restaurant-style dinner that usually serves more than 300 people each week.
The community dinner is organized in such a way that the guests are not to feel ashamed or embarrassed by their situation. Careful Hands members serve the meal and then sit down with the guests to talk and enjoy a meal with them.
Martin said he especially enjoys having the opportunity to fellowship with the guests at the community dinner. It gives him a chance to meet new people and allows the guests to share their stories with someone.

What he tells others: “When I walk away from these dinners, I am thankful for this community and thankful to God that I’ve had the opportunity to help someone. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe.”

This week’s opportunity

Food Assistance needs volunteers once a month to help with its Groceries on Wheels program for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Organize food at warehouse, bag groceries or deliver. Limited routes. Volunteers also may collect and donate paper grocery bags with handles, general foodstuffs and personal hygiene items for the holidays. Minimum age 16 unless accompanied by a parent. Contact: Jane Carlson, 988-8899, foodassistance@att.net, www.foodassistancenc.com.

LEARN MORE

Contact the Volunteer Center of Greensboro, 1500 Yancey­ville St., Greensboro, NC 27405 or call 373-1633. Visit its Web site, www.volunteergso.org.