While the rest of the church remained quiet from the shelter in place order, the industrial kitchen at Highland Park United Methodist Church (HPUMC) was bright and full of life. A half-dozen workers busily made sandwiches and placed them in the long rows of paper bags.

In all, 1,200 meals were prepared and delivered to five homeless shelters in the city of Dallas on that day.

During the last week, the staff at Preston Hollow catering have embraced this Monday through Friday rhythm. When I talked to the owner, Joanie, she was moved to tears while talking about the way the church is helping those who are in need. She told me stories about the mothers and children at Genesis Women’s Shelter who stood to wait for a meal.

And on the flip side, she explained how the church’s partnership with her company is allowing her to continue to employ 25 members of her staff and hopefully hire more. Without this work, they also would be on the unemployment line.

Rev. Paul Rasmussen calls it a works project initiative, a win-win in this time of growing unemployment because of the coronavirus pandemic. The church is feeding the hungry while also keeping people employed. He’s inspired by what he calls this “extraordinary outreach.”

This is the heartbeat of HPUMC.

As a new member, it inspires me as well. I see Christ-followers step into the gap for people who are the neediest in Dallas. They generously give resources and time to help others by providing meals, housing, or a kind word. I’ve seen a difficult time bring out the best in others. I’ve seen a church community come together to show their love for others in Dallas.

If you would like to help, go to the HPUMC Outreach web page and sign up to volunteer or give.