Fishes and Loaves is a faith-based outreach providing monthly distributions of food and clothing to the underserved of southern WV. On the third and fourth Saturday’s of each month we provide a box of food, clothing, and a hot meal to the needy of the community. Each month nearly 1000 people receive assistance with a box of food. Over 800 hot meals are served and more than 2000 pieces of clothing are distributed every month.
Fishes and Loaves began in 1994 as an outreach of the Church of God Family Worship Center and provided only 36 families with food during our first year of operation. Since that time we have seen the need for our services to expand greatly. Consequently, we have received our own 501 (c) 3. In 2006 we provided nearly 15,000 people with food and served over 10,500 hot meals.
In November 2006 we completed the first phase of our new 22,000 sq.ft. “Dream Center”. We are currently offering free computer classes one day a week in the Dream Center with additional classes scheduled for late spring. Upon completion of the second phase, we plan to offer dental services, medical services, cosmetology services and additional classes.
Fishes and Loaves is active in disaster relief both locally and nationally. During the floods of 2001 we prepared and served hot meals daily in the areas affected by the flood. We delivered food boxes, cleaning supplies, and furniture to the flooded areas. We were also active in the areas affected by hurricanes Rita and Katrina in Vidor, TX. While in those areas we prepared and served 2000 meals each day.
Each August Fishes and Loaves provides nearly 400 children with school supplies. During this event we also provide free “back to school” haircuts.
In December of each year we provided a Christmas party for hundreds of children. Each child receives a gift of his choice, a hot meal, and a gift of his choice for his parents for Christmas morning.
Last year during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays we served over 2,000 hot meals. Fishes and Loaves provided each family with a turkey in addition to their monthly box of food.
If you would like to be a part of Fishes and Loaves or for more information, call 304-252-3402 or you may e-mail us at: fishesloaves6335@cs.com. If you would like to support Fishes and Loaves financially, please make your check to: Fishes and Loaves or Beckley Dream Center. All contributions are tax deductible.