JONESVILLE — “‘Twas the week before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse,” wrote Pastor Don Moore of The Potters House church in Jonesville. “All the stockings were hung by the chimney with care with hope and prayers that some food would soon be there.”

He and the church and several volunteers will answer that prayer for families in need from across Union County this Saturday as they host their third food distribution event since October.

“The Potters House is not Santa but food is still coming in can by can, box by box,” Moore said.

The plan for Saturday is to help as many families as possible.

This event is a little different in that Moore and the church have had to seek donations to get everything they need to help those who need the food because Second Harvest — the organization they would normally get the food from — is so busy during the holidays it wasn’t able to help the Jonesville group this month.

Moore has faith in his friends and neighbors, however, that they will come through to help those in need during the holidays.

“We have collected a good amount of food but more is needed,” he said. “Can goods, rice, cereal, chips, crackers, baby food, bread flour, etc. We have some meat but much more is needed. Anyone wishing to donate meat items — preferably frozen — please let us know and, if possible, drop it off at the church Saturday morning between 9 a.m.-noon.”

The previous two events — the first in October and then another last month — served more than 600 families each time. Moore and the church want to help just as many this month but it all depends on the support the event receives from Union County and surrounding communities.

The pastor is trusting there will be food for everyone who comes to Saturday’s event.

“We will serve the people until we run completely out,” Moore said.

This food distribution also will be somewhat different in its flow. Moore said distribution on Saturday will run 2-4 p.m. Those who registered ahead of time will receive vouchers beginning at 1 p.m. at the front of the church. If it is raining, the sanctuary will be open at 12:30 p.m.

The final opportunities to preregister is today (Wednesday, Dec. 16) from 2-5 p.m. and again from 2-5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18. And, as in the past, if a family is already registered it will not need to this time around. Anyone who is not registered for Saturday’s event is welcome to come but will be asked to go to the back of the line.

Moore is also seeking additional volunteers for this weekend’s food distribution. Help is needed filling boxes and getting them ready for distribution.

“Anyone wishing to help, please be at the church at 11 a.m. Saturday morning,” Moore said. “Report to the fellowship building at the back of the church.”

TO HELP:

• If you would like to make a donation to The Potters House for its Christmas food drive coming up on Saturday, Dec. 19, or have any questions feel free to call Pastor Don Moore at (864) 680-3465 or the church in Jonesville at (864) 674-0880 during registration hours of 2-5 p.m. today (Wednesday, Dec. 16) or Friday, Dec. 18.