Sometimes people think going to a Third World country to feed those in need is the sole way to help the starving population of the world. What if one’s next door neighbor is actually just as hungry?
According to the census, of the 7,683 residents in East Lake, 29 percent live in poverty. The national poverty rating is 11 percent.
East Lake residents sort food into boxes at the New City Eats program at New City East Lake Church.“The reason we have chosen to be based in the heart of the East Lake community is due to the dire need for food assistance in that area,” said New City Eats volunteer liaison Josie Lesondak. “The mission of New City Eats is to provide food in an affirming environment through a ministry that is relational, ministers to the whole body, enriches the lives of others, empowers individuals and reinforces the comfort of God.”
New City Eats volunteers assist 10 families through a food network twice a month in order to give them a hand up. The ministry is in the process of growing and volunteers hope to be able to help 20 families soon.
“We saw children with their ribs showing,” Lesondak said of the local youth she has helped. “Nineteen to 20 percent of children in this area are hungry. I talked to two boys that said their mother made them macaroni and cheese and then watched them eat it because there was not enough for her too. We [East Lake] are considered a food desert.”