About Us

A Story from Hurricane Ian

​

As soon as the storm passed, we got to work—despite having no electricity. With just one gas stove, we managed to prepare hot, four-course meals. That first night, the Feed Thy Neighbor team hit the road, delivering meals until 11:30 p.m. After a quick rest, we were back in the kitchen.

That night, I found myself stuck in wet clay up to my calves, unable to move. Josh and Sandy pulled me out, and we kept going. By the second day, emergency management officials took notice and began redirecting bulk meal supplies to us for distribution. To meet the growing demand, we rented a larger truck with a hydraulic tailgate—an essential but costly upgrade at $5,000 for the month. We’re still using it.

​

Our meal distribution quickly surged to 3,000–4,000 meals a day. After ten days, when the Red Cross arrived, we finally got some rest and resumed our regular schedule of 600–800 meals daily. It may sound unbelievable, but between food costs, packaging, labor, fuel, and repairs, we spent nearly $75,000 responding to the storm. Our reserves are depleted, yet we continue—because nothing is more important than the happiness of those we serve. Seeing children enjoying their cupcakes, smiling despite the circumstances, makes every effort worthwhile.

​