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Hunger Strike Force
Feeding Georgia's Working Poor
Filled with bags of groceries, Joe and Susan Costa's vehicle came to a stop. A group of seven Georgian volunteers from A.O.E., Inc. looked at the countless rows of run down trailer houses. It was time to began their weekly errand of mercy.
A knock sounded at the front door of "John's" house. He and his twin boys were astounded to realize the couple standing outside held desperately needed groceries! After his wife left the family, John began a new job and had fallen behind financially. The bills were paid, but there wasn't anything left for food. He and the boys had been sleeping in sleeping bags by a kerosene heater in the living room and cooking the last of their food on a hot plate. "The boys are so sweet and well mannered," commented Joe. "It just broke our hearts."
Further into the rows of trailers live a couple in their mid 40's. Leon and June met over thirteen years ago while at a mentally handicapped center. With out the support of family members, they live in a world of illiteracy. Leon's hurt back makes it impossible for him to work even a simple job and June is epileptic. They look forward to the Costa's visits, knowing their bag of groceries will have many needed items.
Over two years have come and gone since the Costa's began feeding the poor of Athens, Georgia. "A.O.E., Inc. kind of fell into our lap," Susan relays. In addition to directing A.O.E., Inc., they also own an insurance agency.
A.O.E., Inc., became an official Hunger Strike Force partnering ministry in January. Each week, with the assistance of approximately fifteen network ministries, more than 250 families of different ethnicities, receive groceries. One week in February 450 families were assisted! With the help of college students from the University of Georgia, A.O.E., Inc. also helps people in local housing projects. "There's a difference between being poor and being needy," said Susan. "And once you discover the difference, that's when you can truly begin to help people."
Stretch Your Donation Further
During March and April your contribution to HSF will be stretched even further through The Feinstein Foundation's $1 million challenge. The more you give to HSF, the more of the $1 million will be sent to us. Thank you for helping HSF driving away America's hunger! Please contribute Today!
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