Andre Garvin kept the plates coming Saturday.
Lauren Monica | Herald-Advocate
CLIO — Acknowledging the recent government shutdown and loss of SNAP benefits has caused unnecessary hardship for Marlboro County residents, the Omegas of Bennettsville stepped in to fill the food gap for the community of Clio Saturday, serving a mini buffet of delicious eats for those in need.
The community luncheon was held from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., and proving the need, had already served over 70 plates and an entire batch of rice by noon.
Mesha of Love’s Cooking, LLC catered the event, and in addition to rice, also served baked chicken, rolls, and a very special dessert handmade by the Omega’s. Guests could enjoy all the good food with a big glass of Southern sweet tea.
Some of the main organizers for the event were Antonio Alford, Gregory Cain, James E. Smith, Herb Washington, Stacey McDonald, and Maurice Jenkins.
“We saw a need in the community with the shutdown and felt like it was important for us to come together as a body and put the pedal to the medal because the need is urgent,” explained McDonald.
Agreeing with McDonald, Alford said the Omegas have more community give-back events planned in the coming months across Marlboro County, as well as areas of Richmond and Chesterfield Counties. “We are always looking for ways to be involved in the community,” he added.
Separate from the Omegas, but still filling a need in the community, Pastor Smith’s Greater St. James church of Bennettsville located at 724 Old Wallace Road, is holding a Community Thanksgiving Dinner November 25 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Pastor Smith says all are invited to attend.