Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief to communities throughout the United States. Angel Food works through churches and community organizations in over 32 states. This is a new service to the Gonzales community. It will provide a box of food for $30 that is usually worth more than $75. One box will feed a single person for almost a month, a family of four for a week. There are no requirements for purchase, anyone can buy any number of boxes, and Angel Food also has specials each month that can be added for a special price. Here are answers to some questions you may have about the ministry.

Who is the ministry for?  Anyone can participate in purchasing units of food. The reason we offer this ministry is to help those who are at the "just making it" level of life who can use the extra assistance each month.

How do I buy the units of food?  The first time you purchase a box of food you will need to go to any of the participating churches listed and pay $30 for each unit ordered. Then on Distribution Day you will have the opportunity to sign up and pay for the next month's box. Each location will accept cash or food stamps. Convenient order envelopes and instructions are available at each location.

Does the menu change? Yes, the menu changes each month. Menus for the next month will be available at the distribution site, at each church location, and on-line at www.angelfoodministries.com. The menus are balanced, healthy, and well-planned. They will include frozen foods, meat, fresh and frozen vegetables, fruit and desserts.

How and where do I pick up my box of food?  When you purchase your units of food you will receive information on the next day of distribution and where it takes place. All distributions will be at Gonzales Baptist Temple. Instructions about where to drive and the procedure will be outlined on the information sheet. Most of the time you will not need to leave your car. You will be able to see next month's menu, receive an order envelope, pick up your box of food, and turn in your order for next month all from your car.

Why are you doing this?  We believe God has led us to help in any way we can with the needs of the community. Because of what God is doing here we hope it will strengthen your faith and help those who don't believe to consider beginning a relationship with God and accept Christ as their savior.

Where do I place the order?  There will be deadlines for order times each month. You will find these very clearly posted on the monthly menus. These dates change each month. Do not count on it being the same date each month. These deadlines are not flexible. We must place our order according to Angel Food Ministries policy.

What if I change my mind or I forget to pick up my box of food?  Sorry, there are no refunds. We do not have the ability to save boxes for those who forget. Once we place an order we still have to pay for any boxes delivered to us. If you miss the distribution day we must give the food away to others who need it, for it will spoil otherwise. Write yourself notes and place them were you will not forget to pick up your box on distribution day.

Do you hire people to work at distribution days?  No.  This is a totally non-profit operation. We use all volunteers to work on distribution day from our churches. We are always looking for more volunteers. If you would like to volunteer some of your time please see any of the workers to find out how to volunteer.

Is this a government operation?  No, Angel Food Ministries is a Christian-based service in Georgia that ships thousands of boxes of food to many states each month. Because of the huge quantities they purchase and because it is a non-profit organization they can offer the food at very low prices.

How can we help?  Each month we will need boxes for the distribution of food. We ask that each person who places an order bring a box with them to leave with us to use for the next month's food distribution.

How can Gonzales area church members help?  We need volunteers to help with administration and distribution day. Distribution day will require about several volunteers each month. We hope to have enough to rotate months for volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the church office at (225) 647-5204.

What happens if it rains on Distribution Day?  We distribute the food rain or shine. There are no make-up times and dates.

If I have more questions what do I do?  You may call Gonzales Baptist Temple (647-5204) for more information. To see Angel Food Ministries on-line, go to www.angelfoodministries.com.