MLM’s bi-monthly food distribution draws a lines of people, even in bitter cold. Staff and volunteers check clients in and welcome participants.

Craig Lorenzen admits he’s been deeply gratified with his volunteer service this year helping with MLM Saturday food distributions. He’s also gotten a free education.

“It started in January,” Craig recalled. “That first morning the wind chill was like 15 below zero. We got to MLM and witnessed these people standing in line for food. Some had been there at 4 a.m. and they were just frozen. We were amazed that people today could have so much need for a basic commodity—food.”

Craig is one of several volunteers from Christ Lutheran Church who have joined MLM’s growing Saturday food distribution program. Begun in 2008, the program this year was expanded to two Saturdays each month in order to meet increasing need. Fortunately, volunteers and supporters have generally kept pace, ensuring the program runs smoothly. In Lorenzen’s group from Christ Lutheran, that includes people willing to give a few hours on a Saturday to help cook hotdogs or carry boxes of commodities for the older clients or those with a disability.

“It’s a real eye opener to see the need right in our community,” Lorenzen explained. “It makes you realize what this is all about. It’s pretty rewarding to be part of that.”

Craig noted that several in his group had sought a hands-on experience but had received even more. “The people are so grateful and so friendly,” he said. “We’ve made friends down there that we look forward to seeing every month.”

It’s also an education of MLM programs. “A lot of us have chosen to support MLM through United Way at work and through matching programs,” he explained. “But when you get down there and see what MLM is made of and what they do, it can’t help but touch your heart.”