Local Ministry Offers Free Meal Christmas Day
Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at 11:13AM Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer
The holiday vision of one local couple will make Christmas a little brighter again this year in Anderson.
Matthew Merriweather and his wife Stephanie, founders of Anchored in His Grace Ministries, will provide a free Christmas lunch for those in need beginning at 11 a.m. Christmas Day at the Anderson County Farmers Market.
The to-go meals will include a full holiday meal and will be available until 2 p.m. or until all the food is gone.
2021 marks the second year the Merriweathers and their sponsors have offered the free Christmas lunch. Last year nearly 400 were given meals as part of the event.
“We have been doing ministry for three or four years, but about two years ago my wife Stephanie said: ‘Why don’t we put our Christmas on hold and help someone who doesn’t have anything this time of year?’” said Merriweather.
He also said his church, Living Word and Poverty Center, sponsors and Anderson County had been a big help.
“Anderson County Administrator Rusty Burns has been a huge help and and all the county councilmen have allotted some money and provided use of the Farmers Market.”
The event will also distribute coats and blankets donated for the cause. Donations can be made by calling 864-356-7719.