BLACKVILLE - “Now you go get you a bag of produce, take it home and cook it up.”

Over and over, volunteer workers in Blackville and Springfield could be heard saying those words at the recent free produce distributions in the two communities.

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One of the leaders in charge of the Blackville distribution was the Rev. Clyde Rouzon of the Williston Church of Christ on U.S. 78, Williston.

“This ministry offers us the chance to ensure that all people eat. There is a big list of people to thank for this produce that we are freely distributing today -- too big for me to list all of them. But I do want to especially thank the community grocery stores, the town councils and the mayors,” Rouzon said.

He said James Pritchard was in charge of the produce giveaways, calling Pritchard “a dedicated man who gives the Glory to God.” Rouzon said Pritchad “sees to it that this food is offered freely to anyone and everyone who needs it and will use it to nourish their bodies.”

Thus far, the produce distribution program has been held in Seneca, Abbeville, Williston, Crockersville, Washington (Ga.) and Augusta (Ga.).

Ten pallets of food were distributed earlier this month in Blackville and Springfield. Produce was also given away in Norway.

“This food is for those who need it the most, but everyone is welcomed. No one should go hungry,” Rouzon said.

He said the Williston Church of Christ also provides prepared meals following services on various Sundays throughout the year.

“Within the past year, we have prepared 30-40 meals for anyone wishing to partake. Our next meal is June 8, and everyone is welcomed.”

“Thank you, thank you so much,” was the reply volunteers heard again and again from those receiving the food. Some people were seen to bow their heads and offer a quick prayer of thanks for the food.

“I feel so fortunate to have received this food,” one woman said. “I lost my job and didn’t know how I was going to get groceries this week.”

The average bag contained some or all of the following: a cabbage, potatoes, carrots, summer squash, zucchini, eggplant, asparagus, bread, celery and yogurt -- enough food for several meals for a medium-sized family.

Rouzon said everyone who showed up was given a bag, and the left-over produce was given to those who asked for it. No donations were taken, but anyone wishing to contribute financially or with fresh produce can contact the Church of Christ in Williston.

T&D Correspondent Sherryl Peters can be reached by e-mail at boykinbaby@surrealestate.com.

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