As I was driving home the other day, I noticed a long line of cars snaking around the parking lot of Hermitage Baptist Church. It wasn’t a Sunday or Wednesday, so I couldn’t help but be curious. I decided to pull in and find out what was going on. As I got out of my car and walked toward the church, I saw a couple of volunteers walking in and out of the building, putting bags of food onto a long white table. It was clear they were preparing for something important, and as I approached, I learned that it was the third Thursday of the month—the day when food is distributed to those in need.
Debbie Driggers who has been volunteering for a little less than a year, greeted me with a warm smile and explained the process. Every third Thursday, volunteers gather to prepare food bags that will be given away to members of the community.
"We give away anywhere from 60 to 70 bags each month," explained Driggers. "Everyone is welcome to help out, whether you're part of the church or just a neighbor wanting to lend a hand."
The church donates a portion of its building to store food that is donated from various sources, and every month, a few volunteers come together to ensure that these bags are packed with the essentials: canned soups, beans, oatmeal, cereal, peanut butter, and other dry goods. The need is great, and the volunteers are committed to doing whatever it takes to help those struggling to make ends meet.
Driggers also shared with me that the rising cost of groceries has only intensified the need in the community.
“Since groceries have become so expensive, there is a real need in this area,” said Driggers. “I didn’t realize until I started volunteering just how great the need is.”
The program isn’t just for Hermitage residents, either.
“We have people who drive from Drew County just to pick up a bag,” Debbie explained. “It’s not just about Hermitage.”
Each vehicle that pulls up to the church’s designated food distribution area receives one bag. The bags are filled with essential pantry items, things that most people can stretch to make a meal out of. But there’s more than just basic staples.
“We try to include things kids will like, too, like ramen noodles and mac and cheese,” added Driggers.
Meat is always a challenge, Debbie told me. It’s not easy to come by, but when it’s available, it doesn’t last long. “When we get meat, it goes fast,” said Driggers.
For the December distribution, though, Driggers had managed to secure bags of frozen chicken legs, which were quickly distributed as well.
As I stood there, listening to Driggers tell me about how she loved being able to help, I realized just how much this small community effort meant to the people of Hermitage and beyond. The simple act of coming together each month has become a lifeline for so many.
It is evident that this monthly food distribution, led by Brother Eddie Raines and supported by a group of selfless volunteers, is more than just an act of charity. It’s a testament to the compassion and resilience of a community that refuses to let anyone go without. And while the food bags are filled with basic staples, the real gift is the hope they bring—a reminder that, no matter how tough things get, there are people who care and are ready to help.
The next time you’re driving through Hermitage on “distribution day” and you see a long line of cars at the church, know that something powerful is happening there. It’s not just food being given away—it’s the heart of a community coming together to ensure no one has to face hunger alone.
