BVS Volunteers Give Full Year Of Service!
August 16, 2006
In 1987, JoAnn Pike, founder of Good Shepherd Food-Bank (GSFB) met Pastor Merv Keller of the Lewiston Church of the Brethren. He asked JoAnn if GSFB needed volunteers; not occasional, but full time, 40 hours per week volunteers.
Every year since, the Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) has sent a group of volunteers to GSFB, giving of their services full time. A typical group consists of a married couple with children and two to three single members. They bring dedication, consistency, cheerful graciousness, and an unwavering attitude of service to their work at the food-bank.
An average of three members working 40 hours a week per year, equals more than $40,000 worth of labor calculated at minimum wage. The savings in labor costs to the food-bank can provide nearly $500,000 worth of retail groceries to those in need.
August brings the bittersweet time to say farewell to the unit as their year of service comes to an end and they return to their homes and families.
It is impossible to express in words the gratitude we have for the sacrifices of each of these individuals who have been part of our ministry over the past 19 years!
Pictured from left: Ron Brinton, Laura Brinton, Meghan Brinton (front), Tonia Little, Ben Brinton, Christopher Clayton, Dwight Stauffer, Sonya Little and Anna Brinton.
