A Remarkable Story of Provision, Purpose, and Gospel Impact

It was late November on the Kenai Peninsula. I had just sat down with the school district’s Homeless Teen Liaison. And I was shocked to learn that over 100 teens in our community were registered as homeless. They attended school faithfully, receiving breakfast and lunch, but Christmas break was coming. That meant two weeks with no cafeteria meals. For teens living in tents, cars, or bouncing between couches, winter break was not just lonely but dangerous. The need to feed homeless teens was immediate.

I couldn’t shake what I had heard. These teens were part of our community. God was calling us to do something. I brought the need to our senior pastor, and without hesitation, we both agreed. We were going to take on this challenge.

Planning to Feed Homeless Teens

That Sunday, we made the announcement. We were going to aim for 130 boxes to feed homeless teens during Christmas break. Each box would be filled with non-perishable food and small winter gifts. The boxes needed to be about the size of an apple box, and able to close for easy transport. We handed out item lists and clear instructions, praying that God would stir hearts.

I’ll be honest; asking our small congregation to feed homeless teens at that scale felt bold. But the need was clear. And we trusted that if God had called us to it, He would make a way.

Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

We clung to that promise.

A Community Moved to Feed Homeless Teens

Week by week, the boxes started coming in. One family brought three. Another brought five. People who had never been part of outreach ministries before were showing up with grocery bags full of supplies. The energy and excitement were undeniable.

I kept thinking about Isaiah 58:10, “If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness.”

We were watching that light rise right in our church.

Seeing God Provide

When all was said and done, the final count was 130 boxes. Exactly what we had prayed for. God provided every single box to feed homeless teens that winter. The Liaison was overwhelmed with gratitude, and I knew God’s hand was all over it.

That year, those teens not only received food but also hope. Hope that someone cared, hope that they were not forgotten. It was a reminder to me that God works through His people when we answer His call.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• What steps can your church take to feed homeless teens in your community?
• Have you ever seen God move in big ways through small acts of obedience?
• How can you help meet practical needs while sharing Christ’s love?