Steve from Matthew 5:42 Ministries, and Briseidy and Hallee from Next Generation for Christ joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about their service to the community, volunteer needs, monthly community meals, working with the homeless, and clothing and furniture assistance. A group of dedicated teens from Next Generation for Christ is making a difference in Kewanee by organizing free monthly community meals at First Christian Church, which are on the last Saturday of the month. Volunteers of all ages prepare and serve food, with donations in the form of cash, checks, or supplies eagerly accepted. Their efforts extend beyond meal service, as members personally deliver food to homebound individuals and those experiencing homelessness. Their efforts don’t stop there; December will see a Christmas event offering crafts and fun for kids, while parents can enjoy a night out. They will need volunteers to assist in babysitting the children. Partnering closely with Matthew 5:42 Ministries, they also support initiatives in furniture, clothing, and resources such as job applications and resumes.
The Thanksgiving community dinner drew an impressive 148 attendees, with 30 dedicated volunteers serving up hearty meals. Organizers expressed gratitude as every bite was enjoyed, leaving behind no leftovers, a remarkable feat considering previous years often resulted in surplus food donations to local hospitals and emergency workers. The demand for meals underscores a growing need in the community. Organizers encourage local teens and anyone interested to join efforts through volunteer programs such as Key Club or Matthew 5:42, extending a warm invitation to both contributors and helpers. The First Christian Church is coordinating volunteer sign-ups and donation opportunities. Call 309-853-4298 if you need assistance, want to volunteer, or want to donate.
Next Gen is preparing a special Christmas festival this December, offering a unique opportunity for parents to enjoy holiday shopping or a night out while their children are cared for. Aimed at kids ages five to eleven who are potty-trained, the event promises crafts, games, and a variety of fun activities. Organizers are still finalizing the exact date, with December 13th as the tentative choice. Updates and finalized details will be shared on the “Next Generation for Christ” Facebook page. Volunteers with skills in babysitting, crafts, or creative arts are encouraged to get involved and help make the event a festive success.
First Christian Church is preparing to launch a community food pantry, with donations of canned goods now being accepted. Michelle Quagliano will lead this new outreach, an extension of the Matthew 5:42 ministry. The initiative is supported by a dedicated team, each focusing on essential needs—from Paula handling clothing distribution to Steve managing furniture donations. The food pantry is expected to open its doors soon, once shelves are fully stocked. Next Gen, a local youth group, is also collaborating to ensure success. Organizers invite the community to contribute as they work together to address hunger and support families in need.
Next Generation for Christ, launched three years ago, embarked on their journey with a visit to a Native American Reservation in Arapaho, Wyoming—a trip that left a lasting impact on its members. Beyond providing meals, the organization extends support to the community through various outreach activities. Volunteers assist with educational programs, youth mentorship, and cultural exchange events, fostering strong connections. They participate in cleanup projects and help facilitate access to essential resources. Group members emphasize that their mission goes beyond service, aiming to build lasting relationships and address the broader needs of the local population.
Matthew 542 has become a cornerstone in the Kewanee community, focusing not only on feeding those in need but also on building lasting trust with the area’s homeless population. Over the last five years, this initiative—anchored by the First Christian Church—has expanded to reach more individuals, partnering with groups like Next Gen and Finish Well Ministries. Volunteers regularly deliver meals and essentials, fostering relationships and understanding. The unique approach ensures everyone is welcome at community dinners, regardless of their circumstances. Organizers say the key is treating guests with respect and dignity, paving the way for further help and spiritual support.
Paula is gearing up to launch a series of clothing drives starting in January, aimed at providing essential items to those in need. Alongside these initiatives, resource fairs and job application workshops are planned to empower community members with new skills and opportunities. Within the Matthew 5:42 service, volunteers and staff often work shoulder to shoulder with recipients, forging a sense of shared purpose. Michelle also has exciting updates on the food pantry, ensuring broader community support. Many recipients of furniture assistance become regular volunteers, a clear sign of impact as the cycle of giving continues to grow and inspire others.
