Yes, we are open! We are so excited to share that all the ministries of Lubbock Impact are fully open and serving our community again. The last several weeks have been full of activity. Here are a few of the highlights:
- The Free Dental Clinic officially opened on August 4th! The patients were so appreciative, and the volunteer dentists and dental assistants were grateful for how smoothly it went. The clinic already has patients booked through mid-September, which is a reminder that this is a much-needed service for the uninsured, working poor.
- Children’s summer activities came to a close on August 11th, after ten weeks of fun! For six of those weeks, Good News Club leaders came and shared the gospel. On the last day, two of the children prayed to receive Christ. It has been a great joy having kids in the children’s wing again. Wednesday nights will soon be packed with discipleship as the kiddos enjoy games, crafts, and Bible stories this fall!
- On August 11th, we also had our last drive-thru meal. Just as they’ve done every Wednesday since June, First Baptist Lubbock graciously provided the meal and volunteers. David and Sue Dean, volunteer chefs for the Lubbock Impact Kitchen, have resumed managing the meals.
- On August 12th, we had a great time celebrating the Re-Open House at Lubbock Impact. Over 125 people came out for the dedication of the Rory Thomas memorial bench and the ribbon cutting by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. We gave tours of the building to community members who had never been to Lubbock Impact but are now ready to advocate for the ministry. The Rory Thomas memorial bench sits by the office door, where Rory always wanted a bench for people to have a place to rest.
- On August 18th, we had our first meal served “out” of the kitchen in a long time! Gary Jackson cooked and donated 16 briskets for the meal. This reminds us of the first meal ever served at Lubbock Impact in 2007… BBQ sandwiches!
Each day, there are people who call or stop by that have a heart of hopelessness or a burden that feels so heavy. Many just need a listening ear, others need a resource to help their family, yet others have a hungry belly. I myself am overwhelmed by the HOPE and LOVE expressed and poured out by the volunteers of Lubbock Impact.
The scripture in 1 Peter 5:7 comes to mind whenever I see volunteers praying with others or meeting a need: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” That’s what makes this ministry so special and why we must keep leading others to the One who can heal.