Food 4 the Soul, in collaboration with UCAP and Project Reclaim, is launching a summer outreach effort aimed at serving community members while teaching local youth the value of service.
As part of the program, Food 4 the Soul will provide free food every Wednesday throughout the remainder of June and all of July. The outreach, known as Serving the Community, will take place from 10 AM to 2 PM in front of UCAP, located at 204 Miller Street.
Community members can stop by for items such as hot dogs, nachos, sandwiches, chips, and drinks, all provided at no cost.
Students from Project Reclaim will volunteer their time during the program, helping serve food while gaining valuable life and workplace skills. Organizers said participants are learning how to greet and interact with the public, practice safe food handling procedures, and develop strong work habits.
“We are giving these kids an opportunity to give back to the community,” said Ron Anderson, executive director of Project Reclaim.
Project Reclaim is a youth leadership organization that serves students throughout Webster Parish, emphasizing character development, leadership, and community engagement.
For Barbara Goston, founder of Food 4 the Soul, the outreach reflects her longstanding mission of caring for others through food and fellowship.
Goston, who is continuing to rebuild her life after a house fire in January, said serving others has helped her maintain a positive outlook during a difficult season.
“I learned in that quiet time, even when you’re going through it, make somebody else happy, make somebody else smile,” Goston said.
Food 4 the Soul has become known for providing meals and support to people in need throughout the community. Goston said the organization’s goal extends beyond feeding people.
“We’re just out here loving on people,” she said.
Organizers hope the partnership will not only meet practical needs but also strengthen community connections while helping young volunteers develop skills that will benefit them in the future
