FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA -- Each Friday volunteers at Fargo Faith United Methodist Church (UMC) spend the day preparing over two tons, somewhere between 4,000-5,000 pounds of food to distribute to families in the Fargo area.  The food gave away is an all day process that involves volunteers from Fargo Faith and students from North Dakota State University.

Photo:  Karen Balsbaugh and grandaughter Olivia distribute bananas at the Friday food give away at Faith UMC.

Families come each week at 4-5 pm to gather food items that are collected, sorted and distributed by approximately by 45 volunteers. 

"We see a lot of different people come through the door each week," said Rev. Kevin Kloser.

An estimated 90-100 families are provided food items weekly.  The amount of food that each family receives depends upon the number of individuals in each household. 

"There are people in Fargo that are in need.  Many of them come here each week to help make ends meet.  I am happy to help," shared Cliff, Fargo Faith volunteer.

Food items that are distributed at Faith UMC each come fro the Great Plains food bank that serves Cass and Clay counties in the Fargo area. 

Students from North Dakota State University, just across the street from the church, are part of the weekly food give away.  Randy Hardwood, campus pastor at Faith UMC said, "Some students come every week to help, others just show up when they can.  The students enjoy doing this."

"It gives me a lot of satisfaction to help.  I think the people coming here give me more than I give them.  This is a way for me to do a small part to share the Kingdom with others", commented NDSU student, Rachel. 

Christ on Campus (COC) is a ministry of Fargo Faith UMC.  COC involves small group Bible Studies on campus, service projects, and leadership opportunities.  Alicia Fadley, COC president explained," There are other campus ministries at NDSU  but we're open minded, accepting, and progressive.   Everyone is welcome.  Everyone." 

The Friday food give away at Fargo Faith provides an opportunity for members of church and campus community to work side-by-side in service to others. Volunteers of all ages including small children work hand in hand.