Volunteers at Clay Church put together thousands of meals for those in need

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Clay Church in South Bend is partnering with Pack Away Hunger out of Indianapolis to host a two-day meal packing event to provide meals for families in need.

About 250 volunteers were putting together thousands of meals in the gym at Clay Church on Friday.

The meals consist of rice, soy and vegetables with 21 minerals and vitamins.

“When those kids are here packing, we’re planting seeds. We’re planting serving seeds in their hearts today so they can become servants of the future and teach their kids to serve as well,” organizer James Doster said.

A little over half of the meals will be transported to local food pantries, shelters, and others in need in the area.

The rest will be distributed nationally and internationally to places like Haiti, Guatemala and Cuba.

“The energy is high. It’s a place where you really feel like it brings a smile to your face. The energy level goes up. And when you’re done and you leave you think wow I just made a difference,” Volunteer Matt Denaway said.

A little over 200 volunteers are expected to participate on Saturday and over 156,000 meals are expected to be prepared.