Giving Hands

"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me." Matthew 25: 35-40

This beautiful passage from Holy Bible speaks to the importance of showing kindness and compassion to those who are in need. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our actions can have on others. As we go about our daily lives, let us remember our responsibility to extend love and support to those who may be experiencing hardships. By offering a helping hand or a kind word, we can make a significant difference in someone's life.

Food For The Homeless:

At Epworth Church (412 Euclid Ave, Des Moines), various community groups provide a vital service by preparing and serving meals to the homeless. This meaningful initiative was started and is coordinated by Sai Chellappa of West Des Moines. Each Saturday, groups of 4 to 5 families from different communities volunteer their time to prepare and serve lunch for those in need. We invite you to consider joining us in this important effort. The Malayalee community serves here once every two months, and the schedule below will help us coordinate our participation.

Localtion: Basement Hall at Epworth Church

Address: 412 Euclid Ave, Des Moines

Time of food serving: 11:00AM to 12:30PM (Preparations should be completed by 11:00AM)

Scheduling and Responsibilities:

Cycle# Date Sponsor 1 Sponsor 2 Helper 1 Helper 2

1 03/14/26 Jerry Anoop Prajith Bimal

2 05/09/26 Bibin James Praveen Shinu

3 07/11/26 Sen Joly Prajith Joey

4 09/12/26 Prajith Bimal Jerry Anoop

5 11/14/26 Praveen Shinu Bibin James

6 01/09/27 Prajith Joey Sen Joly

Sponsor families will handle purchasing the items from the shopping list and share the associated expenses. Helper families will assist with the food preparation (rice and pasta). Together, the Sponsors and Helpers make up the team for the food‑distribution day. If you are unable to serve on your assigned date, you are welcome to swap with another member.

Food‑Serving Day:

Arrival and Setup (10:30 AM)

The team arrives at the church by 10:30 AM with all required food items.
Prajith ensures the serving dishes, cutlery, and church keys are handed over to one of the serving team members.
Place the notice board outside the church.
Set milk and juice outside the kitchen, in the hall.
Warm all food items, especially the soup and beans
Slice and Toast the bread
Arrange them neatly on the serving counter.

Serving Time (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

Guests typically arrive between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM.
Some guests will dine in the hall; others may request take‑out meals.
Soup is served in a bowl while other items in the plate
Take-out items have a box. No need for soup in case of take-outs
Every one who serves from the counter should wear disposable gloves

Cleanup and Closing (After 12:30 PM)

Clean the hall, kitchen, and all used utensils, restoring everything to its original condition.
Bring the notice board back inside.
Dispose of all trash properly and ensure the main church door is securely closed.
Any remaining food may be taken back by the team or dropped off at a homeless shelter. ** Bethel Mission, 1310 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA - 50314