(BEAVER DAM) A Beaver Dam ministry built on neighbors helping neighbors has reached a major milestone — serving its 100,000th meal.
Beaver Dam Loaves and Fishes hit that mark by the end of 2025, just three and a half years after it began offering a free, weekly hot meal to anyone who wants one. There are no income requirements.
That work depends almost entirely on volunteers.
The ministry has about 60 regular volunteers who help prepare and serve meals, but leaders say more help is always needed, especially during the winter months when many volunteers travel out of state.
“You can do as much as you want or as little as you want,” said founder Linda Smedema. “Some people come for an hour. Some stay the whole time. We couldn’t do it without them.”
Volunteers are needed on Mondays starting at 9 a.m. to help with meal preparation, and on Tuesdays beginning around 2 p.m. in the kitchen or 3 p.m. for serving. New volunteers don’t need to sign up in advance — they’re encouraged to simply show up.
Smedema said the milestone reflects both the growing need in Beaver Dam and the impact the meals have on those who receive them.
“We’re helping people sometimes decide whether to pay rent or eat,” she said. “Knowing how much it means to them makes it all worth it.”
Anyone interested in volunteering can stop by during prep or serving times or call 920-382-1518 for more information.
–Photos courtesy of the Beaver Dam Loaves and Fishes Facebook page
