Feeding children

Most of us don't go to bed hungry at night. However, around the world many face this harsh reality. In fact, 18,000 children died from starvation every day in 2010.

To help address this need, several area churches and organizations -- organized through LaCroix United Methodist Church in Cape Girardeau -- will participate in a MobilePack event Dec. 9 to 11 through Feed My Starving Children, a Christian-based organization that distributes food to people in 70 countries.

Last year about 2,100 volunteers from LaCroix and throughout the community came together at West Park Mall to pack 505,224 meals, enough to feed 1,384 children for a year.

They are looking to attract 2,600 volunteers over 11 shifts next weekend to help at the Shawnee Park Center with a goal of packing 600,000 meals.

Linda Watts, co-chairwoman of the event, noted that members of LaCroix who have gone on mission trips this year have seen children eating the food from Feed My Starving Children. While not everyone can travel abroad for a mission trip, this local event is a tangible way to bless someone in need.

An event of this magnitude must have ample funding. LaCroix hopes to raise $175,000 during the church's Christmas Eve services to cover the costs. Those who can't make one of the services can still contribute by contacting the church office.

We often hear, especially during the Christmas season, that it is "better to give than to receive." Consider supporting this cause or attending the weekend event to learn more about the efforts. And thank you to all those who have committed to serve.