The mission of Shepherd’s Center of the Greenbrier Valley is to sustain mature adults to live independently by providing opportunities for lifelong learning, Community service, caring relationships and spiritual growth. They offer classes on the western and eastern ends, have a handy helper program, and provide transportation.
One of the programs they offer is Gwen’s Meals, in honor of Gwen Clingman, who fed many people in the area. Several different churches volunteer to make meals. We feed 50 people each week in the eastern end of the county, 50 on the western end and about 25 in the Alderson area. Meals in the Meadow River area are delivered on Thursdays. There are three routes, Rainelle, Rupert, and Dawson so three drivers are needed each week. Meals are picked up at the church at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday. Each driver is given a list with the people on their route, their address including some directions, and their phone number. It will also say the numbers of meals given at the house, usually one or two. Masks are required. Drivers usually don’t go into the home unless the person needs help carrying the meal. Usually the driver is met at the door by the person or their caregiver. Pleasantries are exchanged and the driver goes on his or her way. Routes usually take 1.5 to 2 hours.
Currently, the following churches are making meals: Meadow Grove Baptist, Newton Memorial Baptist, Rainelle United Methodist, Smoot Baptist, Smoot Methodist Charge, and Mt. View Baptist. The Rupert Women’s Club is making meals this week, and Marvel Center is scheduled for next month, each for the first time. Groups receive a stipend to help cover the cost of meals.
There is a waiting list to receive meals as we limit the number of recipients to 50 per area each week so as not to put too much of a strain on those making the meals. Recipients are based on requests not income. Most people are elderly and have trouble fixing their own meals.
If you have any questions, call Judy Lucas at 304-647-5366 or email lulukate@suddenlink.net. You can also call or text Sarah Polk, Assistant Director of the Shepherd’s Center, at 304-661-4212.