Summer Field Notes | Hope Park Food Distribution | July 10

Today at Hope Park, we served more than 60 families through the food distribution. It was a steady day filled with conversations, connections, and reminders that every person who comes through the line has a story.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that food insecurity often changes throughout the month. At the beginning of the month, many families have recently received SNAP benefits and have more resources available. As the month continues, the need often increases.

That reality is personal for me. Growing up, I remember my mother stretching what we had until assistance came. Simple meals helped carry us through. Those memories remind me that behind every person receiving food is a family doing their best.

Today my role was different. I helped record the amount of food distributed, but the greatest moments happened through conversations. I connected with children, talked with Malachi about his summer reading, and enjoyed hearing stories from families who have become familiar faces.

Before leaving, new opportunities opened. I met community partners connected with a robotics camp and Hope Academy, an organization supporting young adults with disabilities. We discovered ways Hope 1 Ministries may be able to support children and families through future partnerships.

This day reminded me that ministry is built through presence.

Sometimes the greatest opportunities are not planned—they happen when we show up, listen, and serve the people in front of us.

Presence opens doors.