Barbara Lawlor

Nederland

When "Runner," was shouted out above the chatter buzz, kids with nets over their heads dashed to their destination, eager to be where they were needed.

Each child had simple tasks and they carried out their responsibilities with solemn, but joyful, intent. They knew they were an important part of an important event.

The second annual "Stop Hunger Now" gathered at TEENS Inc. last Wednesday night. Close to 50 people pulled white nets over their hair and took their stations, ready to begin the mass production of 11,000 meals that will be sent to countries all over the world.

The project was introduced to Nederland last year by Nederland Community Presbyterian Church pastor Hansen Wendlandt who had organized the project at his previous church. It is a totally uncomplicated process of bringing people together who bring together various ingredients, the makings of a meal, and the means to pack them and send them to hungry people.

The TEENS Inc. gymnasium was transformed into a dried food factory with workers at each station. Large bins of rice, soy, seasoning and dried vegetables were provided along with bags, staples and boxes. The volunteers measured their ingredients into the plastic bags which were sent on to other volunteers who sealed them and then put them into boxes.

The boxes were then put into the semi-trailer that was waiting for them outside the delivery door. Every time 1,000 meals were packaged, one of the children had the opportunity to hit the big brass gong, which resulted in huge cheers from the workers. Each bag contained six meals and 36 bags were packed into each box, 216 meals per box.

The sound of cardboard boxes landing on the floor, the whisper of the grains sifting into the plastic bags, the screech of the packing tape sealing the boxes and the cries of "Runner" signified the progress being made.

Volunteers consisted of boy scouts, girl scouts, food pantry volunteers and Nederland Lions Club members. TEENS Inc. Peer supervisors set up the production room and then, when, the meals were packed into the truck, helped clean up. Within about a three-hour period, an almost miraculous, productive event had started and finished.

Pastor Wendlandt said, "We came together tonight in a positive atmosphere to serve in a sense of perseverance in spite of recent circumstances." He was referring to the recent bomb threat in the Nederland Shopping Center.

It was a time for mountain residents to put their energy into helping others instead of fearing potential disasters, of sharing our wealth with those who know hunger and despair.