At Gloria Dei, the spirit of giving extends beyond the church walls, reaching into the community with a commitment to food delivery ministries. Two initiatives close to the congregation’s heart are Meals on Wheels and Turkey Baskets, each leaving a significant impact on the recipients and those who deliver these offerings of care and sustenance.
Meals on Wheels: A Journey of Connection
Gloria Dei has had the same Meals on Wheels route, delivering meals on that route two days a week, every week, for 20 years.
Amber Edelen, a Meals on Wheels volunteer, captures the essence of Gloria Dei’s history with the program. She shares, “We drove a route in southeast Sioux Falls and picked up meals from Hope Lutheran. I think there were about 10 stops. It was not always smooth sailing – I doubt we had a trip without multiple missed turns, diaper changes, and several spills – but it was fun and really fulfilling.”
Amber’s journey with Meals on Wheels began during her early days as a new mom. “I have always been drawn to service,” she explains. “When I was a new mom, though, I really struggled to find ways to volunteer in the church and community.” Joined by a friend in a similar stage of life, they formed a dynamic team, navigating the challenges of motherhood while making a meaningful impact. Over time, the commitment evolved, and Amber found herself driving the route with her children in tow, creating cherished memories of service and connection.
Reflecting on the profound impact of Meals on Wheels, Amber shares, “The MOW delivery was often the only visitor to a recipient’s home. It helped teach me that taking time to visit for a few minutes can make all the difference in someone’s day or week. It is time well spent.”
One story Amber recounts involves a recipient’s son expressing gratitude for the service, emphasizing the comfort it brings to know that their parents are still seen and valued by the community, even in their homebound state. “I pray they will have caring friends and community members who reach out and are a regular presence in their lives,” Amber adds.
Turkey Baskets: A Thanksgiving Feast of Joy
Each year as Thanksgiving approaches, Gloria Dei’s tradition of Turkey Baskets takes center stage, bringing forth not only a bountiful meal but also a rich tapestry of joy and gratitude. Adam Roark, a member of Gloria Dei, shares his family’s experience with this cherished tradition, stating, “Since we’ve been attending since 2017, we’ve always had the opportunity to give a turkey basket.”
What’s inside these meaningful baskets? Peter Rasmusson sheds light on the Thanksgiving Basket ministry, providing a glimpse into the generosity found within. “The baskets include a full Thanksgiving meal, including a turkey provided by Oak Lane Hutterian Colony, a relish tray, side dishes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, rolls, dessert, and supplies to prepare the meal provided by a Gloria Dei volunteer.”
For Adam Roark, the act of giving goes beyond the contents of the basket. “Thanksgiving is personally my favorite holiday. I always really enjoy being able to share from a position of being able to give to someone who may not have Thanksgiving otherwise.” It becomes a family affair, a joyful tradition passed down through the years, where the act of giving is a lesson in abundance for his children.
As the baskets find their way to the recipients, typically delivered by the same Gloria Dei volunteers who provided the meal items, Peter Rasmusson details the logistics, saying, “Typically, the Gloria Dei volunteer who provided the meal items delivers them along with the turkey the Monday before Thanksgiving.” The Heartland House identifies the recipients, helping to ensure the baskets reach those who need them the most.
While Peter acknowledges the briefness of time during delivery, he shares a snapshot of the impact, stating, “The time with them during delivery is pretty short, typically it’s a pretty busy time of day for them.” Despite the hustle, the encounter is marked by smiles and warm thank yous, especially from the youngest members of the families, highlighting the genuine joy these baskets bring.
Reflecting on the broader impact of the ministry, Peter admits, “The biggest impact on me would be the recognition of how large the need is for many Sioux Falls residents and the motivation to continue to assist in meeting the local need.” It’s a recognition that fuels a commitment to ongoing service, a commitment shared by the volunteers who make these deliveries possible.
In describing the power of receiving a meal, Peter’s words resonate: “Excitement of the kids creates an awesome feeling,” emphasizing the tangible joy and appreciation that reverberates within the families receiving these Thanksgiving Baskets.
As Gloria Dei continues food deliveries, the stories of Amber, Adam, and Peter collectively illustrate the impact of Meals on Wheels and Turkey Baskets. These food delivery ministries continue to weave a fabric of love and compassion throughout the community, embodying the church’s commitment to worship plus one – connecting faith with action.
