JONESVILLE — The Potters House in Jonesville knew when it opened its doors to help those in need of food assistance last fall, it was venturing into new territory.

“Many told us we would not be able to sustain this program,” said Pastor Don Moore.

But where there’s a will — and faith — the church is finding a way.

“With the assistance from loving, caring and compassionate citizens and some churches in Union County, it’s growing monthly,” Moore said.

The Potters House is gearing up for its next food distribution day set for Saturday, March 27, in Jonesville. A record 1,200 people representing 450 families were served at last month’s Truck Load of Food event and the church now has more than 900 total families registered at the food bank.

Since it’s beginning in October, the food bank program has given boxes of food and other nonperishable items to anyone in need of assistance once each month.

“We have given away over 150,000 pounds of food and other essentials at absolutely no cost to the people,” Moore said — 23,000 pounds were given away just last month.

With the next food distribution day looming, the pastor said the church has funds to purchase food but still would appreciate any and all assistance — whether it’s in the form of cash or food donations — so it can begin lining up plans for April as well.

The good news for this month’s event is Moore reports the church will again be able to offer Pampers and other paper products and even some soap, toothpaste, makeup and other products from the United Way.

There is still time before the next distribution day to register to receive assistance from the church if you already haven’t.

Moore said the next registration day will be held 2-6 p.m. Friday, March 26, at the church. People can stop by the church in Jonesville or call at (864) 674-0880 to make sure they are on the list to receive food the next day. Moore reminded that church phones will only be manned for registration during those four hours.

Of course, anyone with questions, desire to assist the church in its efforts or needing to register can also contact Moore directly.

None of this would be possible without the support of many local and area individuals, churches, organizations, businesses and other agencies.

“This would not have been possible without the help we received from our supporters in Union County,” the pastor said following last month’s successful distribution day. “There were many individuals who have helped as well and it’s greatly appreciated. Without this outpouring of assistance, the food bank would not be possible to continue.”

TO REGISTER:

If you need food assistance and would like to register for The Potters House’s next food distribution day March 27, go to the church in Jonesville 2-6 p.m. Friday, March 26, or call the church at (864) 674-0880. The church phone is only manned during registration hours. You also can call Pastor Don Moore at (864) 680-3465 to register. And remember, if you have already registered to receive food from the food bank you do not need to do so again — you are still registered.