Several grants were given to children and youth programs outside of Marion County. One of the children’s ministries is at Sheridan United Methodist Church in Hamilton County. Charlie and Helen Martin are leaders in this daily meal in the fellowship hall. It started out for children three years ago – they averaged 7 daily. It is now expanded to children, parents, grandparents and senior citizens averaging 65 per day. There are posters around the community about the lunch that is served free of charge at Sheridan UMC. The children arrive by bike, foot, and one little girl proudly told me that she came by a moped. Children come alone; some have a parent, caregiver, or grandparent with them. They know that there will be a hot meal with meat, vegetables and fruit (watermelon is their favorite) along with homemade cookies and cake. Helen sneaks in pureed vegetables to make the meals extra healthy. Appropriately, Veggie Tales plays on a nearby TV.
They sign in and are greeted by regular volunteers including, Kate, Owen, Garrett – young and old. “Hey Charlie,” can be heard across the room. Charlie encourages a clean plate by ringing a cow bell and making an announcement “clean plate” -- dessert follows. They receive food donations from church members and the community. It is run carefully with spreadsheets and a complete summer menu planned by Helen.
It is wonderful that the church community can reach outside their doors and invite the children to come.
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