Members of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce learned about a ministry in Berkeley and Jefferson counties that provides assistance to youth, helping to provide food to those who may not have it otherwise.

Diana Jones Wall, a founder and Berkeley County coordinator with the Community Combined Ministries, explained the start of the organization which was formed with a focus to serve area schools with meals for children who would otherwise go without, on weekends, during breaks and throughout the summer.

The group currently serves 26 schools between the two counties, providing what are labeled as Kidz Power Pacs, filled with food items to ensure a meal for children.

Wall shared that the schools help determine which students are candidates for the program and then, each Friday, those children receive a Power Pac filled with food items they can prepare themselves over the weekend.

Wall said that the program is currently serving about 800 children.

The food comes via some donations as well as through careful purchasing of bulk items, Wall said. Churches, businesses or individuals who wish to assist with the cause can choose to sponsor a child for as little as $20 per month. They can also hold fundraisers or food drives of “kid-friendly” foods.

Volunteers working with CCM gather once a month to pack the Power Pacs. More volunteers are always needed to assist. Those wishing to help may contact Wall at 304-268-8778 or Kim Bittle, Jefferson County coordinator, at 571-748-8290. Either Wall or Bittle may also be contacted by those wishing to volunteer in any capacity or wishing to donate to the program.

For more information, visit www.communitycombined.org.