Spotlight on Volunteers: Shoppers

What can I possibly say about these folks? They are the ones who are out there week after week serving on the front line, fearlessly entering grocery stores armed with envelopes of coupons, and emerging unscathed with bags and bags of food and other necessities to be delivered to the co-op. Most of the wonderful volunteers who shop for us insist that it is an easy thing to do, and although I know that the carts get heavy and sometimes there are heavy sighs from cashiers who would rather not have to scan lots of coupons, I've heard many stories from our shoppers about the joy it brings to be able to participate in this way.

Just imagine: some of our shoppers like to use this shopping time as a time to lift families in prayer, asking the Lord to bless each of the individuals who will be receiving the food that they are so lovingly shopping for. Others have found that their shopping trips turn into a time to be able to witness for Christ: fellow shoppers and store employees are always curious as to why we are purchasing 24 boxes of cereal, 35 cans of soup, or 42 boxes of spaghetti. When they ask that inevitable question, "What is all of this for?" it is a wonderful opportunity to share with them about the co-op and their ministry in our community. The next question, "Why are you doing this?" is an open invitation to speak about the love of Christ that calls us to respond!

I am so grateful to the people who take time out of their busy lives to shop for us. Together with our coupon angels and coupon clippers, they make this ministry complete. Their willingness to serve on the front lines--pushing those heavy carts and enduring those heavy sighs--makes it possible for individuals to receive much needed food for themselves and their families during their time of need. Thank you, shoppers for all you do!