Feeding the Community in South College Station
What began as a simple effort to help people during a government shutdown has blossomed into a lasting resource for the South College Station community. Back in October, a group known as The Turtles, which consists of over 80 members from a local Bible study at Christ Church, stepped up to support those facing hardships.
Jami Fish, a passionate member of The Turtles, felt a strong urge to assist others. During the long government shutdown, many were struggling without benefits. She recalls feeling a powerful call to action, saying, “I just kept feeling, ‘Feed my sheep.’” Unsure of what that meant, she gathered her fellow group members to brainstorm.
With enthusiasm, they launched their first food distribution shortly before Halloween. They organized meals, and that night, they handed out over 100 meals to people from various areas, including Bryan and Navasota. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, encouraging them to continue their mission.
As time went on, The Turtles expanded their efforts. They began preparing meals for the homeless and kept non-cooked items in their cars for those in need. Fish estimates they’ve served around 700 meals since their initial effort. In response, they officially opened the Turtle Shell-F Food Pantry at Christ Church.
Farrah Spears, the founder of The Turtles, emphasizes inclusivity. “You don’t need to show identification or be part of any program,” she states. “Just tell us your needs, and we’ll do our best to help.”
This initiative goes beyond merely distributing food. Member Donna Tupper shares that the goal is to connect with people. “We want them to feel loved,” she says, highlighting the importance of meaningful interactions.
Erin Walker, who manages the pantry’s inventory, finds joy in giving back. “Serving fills your heart,” she explains, revealing how rewarding it can be to help others.
The Turtle Shell-F Food Pantry is open every Tuesday from 9 AM to 11 AM and Thursdays from 5 PM to 7 PM. They run entirely on donations and welcome community support, whether through food, cash, or volunteer work.
What makes their approach unique is the emphasis on providing not just food, but full meals complete with recipes. “We’re not just throwing random food at people,” Fish clarifies. “We want to make it easy for them to prepare a meal.”
The impact of their work is significant. According to recent research, community food programs can reduce food insecurity by up to 30%. As people share their needs, The Turtles respond with compassion and care, fostering a sense of belonging.
In supporting one another, The Turtles reflect a growing trend of community initiatives across the country, where grassroots efforts particularly thrive in times of uncertainty. Their commitment continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve, showing the power of kindness in action.
