WHAT IS THe MEAL TRAIN MINISTRY ABOUT?
One of the practical ways we serve people is through providing dinner meals during difficult or challenging moments in their lives. This is a very tangible way to care for and serve those in our Friendship family. It can also serve as a powerful witness to the love of Christ to a friend or family member in need.
Generally, a Meal Train can cover several days or possibly a couple weeks for a person or family in need. We cannot guarantee how much will be provided; this will vary based on need and availability of volunteer providers. These meals may be home-cooked, purchased from a local restaurant, or even a restaurant delivery or gift card.
WHAT TYPE OF OCCASIONs would call for A MEAL TRAIN?
There are any number of challenging moments that an individual or family may face where meals would help ease the burden. Here are a few examples:
- Bringing home a new baby
- Having a family member in the hospital
- Having a family member recovering at home from surgery or illness
- The death of a loved one
- A new family has just moved into the area
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE MEALS?
Our Meal Train ministry is primarily meant to serve the Partners and regular attenders of Friendship Baptist Church. We will, however, consider special requests made by Partners or regular attenders for a friend or family member in need. Please understand that we may not be able to accommodate every request.
HOW DOES A MEAL TRAIN FUNCTION?
First, we have a team of wonderful folks who volunteer their own time and resources to be part of this team. Some are great cooks, some are great at buying gift cards, some are great at having restaurant meals delivered! Culinary ability is less important; what matters most is the love & care provided by those who represent Christ and the Friendship family.
Second, when someone requests a Meal Train (for themselves or others), we first determine if it is a legitimate need we can help meet. If so, the Meal Train is set up and details are distributed to our Meal Train team. Details include the days needed, food preferences or dislikes, allergies, family info and details (for care & prayer purposes), etc. At this point, Meal Train team members can sign up to provide meals on specific days until the schedule is filled.
Lastly, the recipient will be able to view the Meal Train and details. The meal providers will then coordinate the delivery of meals with the recipient(s).
