Wayland (Mich.) Christian Reformed Church serves free breakfast once a week to families in the church and the neighborhood who are struggling financially. More than 20 families attend each week.
“They’re so gracious and friendly to everyone who walks in their doors,” said Joyce Andrews. “It doesn’t matter what you look like or what you wear. It’s a great thing they’re doing.”
Harriet Davies, leader of the Saturday-morning ministry, said, “We just felt the Lord wanted us to feed the hungry, so that’s what we’re doing.”
From left, Sarah Davies serves breakfast to Cheri Gonzalez.
Ryan Struyk
Cheri Gonzalez attends the breakfast with her son, Diego, 8. “The kids like it,” she said. “The people who work here always talk to us—always have a smile and give you a hug.”
The church provides coloring pages and foosball for families with young kids.
Volunteer Andrea Buist, 30, highlighted the relationships created through the ministry. “Many of them didn’t know each other before it started, so it’s neat to see how it’s brought them together,” she said.
Around 50 volunteers each month help cook food, serve the meal, and get to know the families.
“It’s awesome how many people we have [volunteering] here. There’s always someone you can call if you need help,” said Buist.
Another volunteer, John Davies, said, “We hope that through the friendship and growth, they’ll confide in us with their spiritual goals and needs.”