Back to NewslettersOctober 2026 Newsletter

    Faithful Service and Christmas Hope

    Celebrating Steve and Sally's volunteer recognition, a lasting partnership with Gateway Helping Hands, and preparations to share warmth and Christmas joy with families in Eastern Kentucky.

    Steve and Sally Whaley, named Lexington Kiwanis Volunteers of the Year
    Steve and Sally Whaley will be honored by the Lexington Kiwanis Club on November 16.

    Our mission is to serve our Lord, Jesus Christ, by meeting the spiritual and material needs of individuals and families experiencing financial hardship living in the Appalachians and surrounding areas.

    Scripture Focus

    Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
    — 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

    Whaleys Named Lexington Kiwanis Volunteers of the Year

    The Lexington Kiwanis Club has named Sally and Steve Whaley this year's Volunteers of the Year, recognizing their work helping families in Eastern Kentucky and mentoring local youth.

    In partnership with Midwest Food Bank, the Whaleys deliver food each month to residents in Eastern Kentucky. They also provide household goods, personal and senior care items, and clothing. At Christmas, they coordinate an additional distribution of coats, toys, shoes, blankets, and gifts for teenagers.

    Locally, the Whaleys have mentored young people through 4-H and the McLean County Fair.

    The couple will be honored at a dinner at 6 p.m. Monday, November 16, at the Lexington Community Center. Dave's of Fairbury will cater the meal. The cost is $10 per person, payable at the door. Reservations are due November 8 and may be made by calling Lois at 309-531-7937. Donations to Servants of Our Lord will be accepted at the dinner.

    Hands and Feet of Christ: Wanda and Gateway Helping Hands

    Gateway Helping Hands has offered steady help in Rowan County, Kentucky, for more than fifteen years. Founded in 2009 by Wanda Fultz, the ministry lives out its mission as the hands and feet of Christ who give, care, help, and love without prejudice.

    Its food pantry serves 250 to 400 families a month through distributions six days a week. A thrift store helps support the work, Tuesday soup distributions serve hungry and homeless families, and the ministry assists people experiencing homelessness with food, clothing, and prevention support. Children's programs include weekend backpack snacks, Christmas sponsorships, and summer feeding.

    A lasting partnership began in 2014, when Wanda met Roger Whaley, founder of Servants of Our Lord Ministry. Roger recognized the need and helped establish regular monthly food deliveries. After Roger's passing in 2017, Steve and Sally faithfully continued those deliveries, supplying food that Wanda and her volunteers distribute to Rowan County families.

    Wanda's personal care and the ministry's focus on making sure children have meals are at the heart of this work. Consistent support from Servants of Our Lord is one quiet but reliable part of the effort to fight hunger, one family at a time.

    Gateway Helping Hands is located at 204 Morehead Plaza, with typical hours Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those seeking help, wanting to volunteer, or hoping to donate can call (606) 780-9704. Updates appear at facebook.com/childhoodhunger.

    Sharing Warmth and Christmas Joy on December 1

    As cooler weather settles in, Servants of Our Lord Ministry is preparing for our Christmas Coat and Toy Distribution on December 1. With your help, we look forward to sharing the warmth of winter clothing, the joy of a Christmas gift, and the love of Christ with the families we serve.

    We are still collecting coats, toys, gloves, hats, and scarves. A warm coat can make cold days more comfortable, and a toy chosen with care can bring a smile to a child's face. Each donation is a simple, meaningful way to remind someone that they are loved and remembered.

    Please consider helping individually or inviting your church, workplace, or community group to collect these much-needed items. Contact Servants of Our Lord Ministry to arrange your donation before the December 1 distribution. Thank you to everyone who gives, volunteers, and prays for this ministry.

    But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. — Hebrews 13:16 (NKJV)

    Ministry Needs

    Prayer partners: Please lift up the food pantries, dedicated volunteers, families receiving God's provision, and ministry leaders.

    Financial partners: Prayerfully consider a monthly donation to sustain food distributions for families in Eastern Kentucky. Donations are tax-deductible.

    Fuel partners: Fuel is one of our largest expenses. Every gift helps keep our trucks on the road and food moving to those who need it most.

    The ministry operates solely on individual donations and the help of volunteers. To help with monthly food distribution or arrange a Christmas donation, contact us at info@servantsofourlord.com or (859) 363-6421. Gifts may also be mailed to P.O. Box 224, Lexington, IL 61753.

    Prayer Requests

    • Pray for our upcoming Christmas coat and toy distribution.
    • Pray for the homeless as colder weather settles in.
    • Pray for Brenda's brother as he faces health challenges.
    • Pray for Dayspring as they continue to deal with box truck repairs.
    • Pray that our monthly volunteers stay warm and safe while working in the cold warehouse.
    • Pray for safety for the upcoming elections.

    Help Feed a Family Today

    Every $1 you give provides about $30 of food for families in Eastern Kentucky through our partnership with Midwest Food Bank. Your gift brings hope where it's needed most.

    Donate Now
    Become a Monthly Partner

    Sustained Hope, Month After Month

    Monthly partners keep our trucks rolling and food on the table. A small recurring gift creates a reliable foundation for families in Eastern Kentucky.

    Servants of Our Lord Ministry

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