Hands Together Inc. Brings Hope and Hot Meals to Lafayette’s Hungry

A Thursday Evening of Compassion and Fellowship

Every Thursday evening, the streets near the downtown library come alive with a spirit of generosity and love. By 5 p.m., people arrive on foot, by bicycle, in cars, and even in wheelchairs, gathering for a hot meal and fellowship. On Nov. 20, 76 men and women were served pork roast and gravy over grits, barbecue ribs, side dishes, dessert, water, snacks, and fruit—all free of charge. The week prior, more than 90 people were fed, reflecting the growing need in the community.

This act of service embodies Matthew 25:35, where Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.” Lafayette’s volunteers are answering this call in tangible ways, feeding both body and soul.

From a Backpack to a Nonprofit Ministry

The story began years ago with Lianne Dick, a college student concerned about the city’s homeless population. She filled a backpack with sandwiches and water and handed them out to those in need. What began as a simple act of kindness blossomed into Hands Together Inc., a registered nonprofit that now organizes weekly meals for Lafayette’s hungry.

The growth of this ministry reflects the truth of Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Through perseverance and faith, small acts of compassion can multiply to touch hundreds of lives.

Volunteers: Serving With Heart and Faith

Under the shade of cypress trees, volunteers unload hot meals from metal pans, setting tables with care. Before serving begins, one of the unhoused attendees leads the group in prayer, creating a shared moment of gratitude and reverence. Volunteers like Liz Savoy and Jenny St. John not only serve food but also provide emotional support, often becoming emergency contacts for those with no family or safety net.

Savoy reflects, “Without us, who? What would they do?” This echoes Proverbs 19:17, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” In serving others, volunteers find themselves richly blessed in return.

Stories of Renewal and Divine Providence

Among the attendees were individuals who had faced profound challenges. One young man, pushing a friend in a wheelchair, shared that after losing $17,000 and seeing his friend suffer a drug-related stroke, he realized, “God was taking things away from me that weren’t serving me… the Lord was gracious enough to provide beautiful hospitality, loving people, and the chance… to do it right.” Another, Gypsy Dion, spoke of the relief and guidance she and her fiancé received after living in a park, noting, “I’ve never seen anything like this before.”

These stories reflect Psalm 107:9, “For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Through Hands Together, God’s love is made visible in the lives of those struggling.

A Call to Support and Join the Mission

The meals are made possible through donations from restaurants, catering companies, event centers, and neighbors, including food that would otherwise go to waste. For those wishing to contribute monetarily, Hands Together can be reached via their Venmo account @helping_handstogether or by emailing handstogetherinc8@gmail.com.

Prayer for Lafayette’s Hungry and Faithful Servants

Heavenly Father,
We lift up every person who comes hungry and in need, asking for Your provision, protection, and peace. Bless the volunteers who serve faithfully, giving of their time, resources, and hearts. May this ministry continue to shine Your light into the darkest places, reminding all who are struggling that You are a God of love, provision, and restoration. Let each meal be more than food—it is a vessel of hope and Your grace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.