HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Hundreds of families now have more food on the table thanks to the First Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Huntsville. On Sunday morning into the afternoon, leaders hosted their grocery giveaway and registered people to vote.
"We're giving out dry goods. We have meat and we have fruit. And we're doing this at least once or twice a month to help our community," says Community Service Ministry Coordinator, Donna Gibson.
At least 300 bags of groceries were handed out to families in need. The church's tithing, fundraisers, and donations from the Food Bank of North Alabama contributed to the cause.
Gibson is happy to be back to serve for nearly a month after being infected by the Coronavirus.
"I tested positive on March 22nd, and I got my first negative test seven weeks later. I got two negatives. So yes, I have a testimony. Praise God. I came through without having to be hospitalized," says Gibson.
Gibson says a lot of people are depending on these groceries. "It's important for me to be here to help people in the community, because a lot of the people that we're helping; some of them I know. There are people who had jobs, good jobs and now their lives have changed."
First SDA Church's Elevate Young Adult Ministry Leader, Bryanna Farrington, and volunteers are also registering people to vote.
"In light of all the current events right now, it's so important for us to get out there to the polls and vote and encourage people. And when you see a young face, it kind of encourages people our age as well," says Farrington.
The Alabama Primary Runoff is July 14th, and the next city of Huntsville election is August 25th.
Volunteer Jasmine Bartholomew says generations depend on your vote. "I have a son. So when I vote, I'm providing for his future."
"If you don't vote you can't complain. Your vote is your voice," adds Farrington.
Community leaders at the church have been hosting food drive-thru giveaways since April.