On Saturday, Nov. 23, the Auburn congregations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will host its second annual food drive and meal assembly event, benefiting local families experiencing housing insecurity. The event will support Vine Maple Place, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families in need. Each “meal-in-a-bag” contains ingredients and a recipe for a holiday meal, providing comfort and nourishment during the holiday season. Last year, this event set a record by donating over 200 meal bags and this year the organizers aim to make an even greater impact.

Auburn resident Katie Price, who attended with her family last year, reflected on the experience: “Our family loved participating in this service opportunity! It was a perfect way to embrace the true meaning of the holidays and focus on others in need.” Katie’s children, Brielle (6) and Isaac (8), enjoyed helping and shared their own feelings. “When you do something nice for others, it makes you think of them,” Brielle said. “Other people need food, and we want to be kind and good.” Isaac added, “It was fun putting all the different foods in the bags! It made me think of Jesus and how he loves and helps others.”

Part of the mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is to “practice Christlike love and service.” The food drive and meal donation are ways for members to put this mission into action. The church invites both members and the community to join in by donating items or helping to assemble the meal bags. All ages are welcome. Items being collected include cans of chili, green beans, chunk chicken, cream of chicken soup, two-pound bags of rice and boxes of mac and cheese. Donations can be dropped off at the church before Wednesday, Nov. 20, or brought directly to the event at 9:30 a.m. at 1820 F Street in Auburn.

Tana Grames and Lindsay Relf stand with 203 meals-in-a-bag collected and assembled by the Auburn congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to support local families experiencing housing insecurity. Grames led the organization of the food drive and assembly event for church members. Courtesy photo