Around this time every year, Orphan Grain Train-Wisconsin delivers thousands upon thousands of pounds of potatoes to various organizations, among them Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM). The challenge is reaching out to local organizations and congregations to offer them a part of this generous donation, ensuring all 31,000 pounds of potatoes received will be distributed to those who need them the most. In the past, YLM has been able to distribute thousands of pounds of potatoes in a week; this year, distribution took place within four days.

The potatoes arrived the morning of October 3rd, and soon as the pallets were unloaded, the Rescue Mission of El Paso arrived with their own trailer, collecting 6,000 pounds. The Rescue Mission, known for its dedication to helping both homeless individuals and migrants awaiting immigration processing, operates several shelters. Many of those helped by the organization are women and children, and the potatoes were a much-needed addition to their meals, providing nourishment and comfort during uncertain times.

By Saturday morning, the efforts continued at YLM’s Food Pantry Drive-Thru, where 3,000 pounds of potatoes were distributed to local families. The drive-thru, which has become a vital resource for the community, offer families food boxes to help relieve food insecurity. At the same time, a pallet of potatoes was placed next to San Pablo Lutheran Church’s thrift shop, offering customers the chance to take home a bag or two with their purchases, ensuring the abundance of potatoes reached even more people in need.

Later that same afternoon, Tierra de Oro, an organization dedicated to supporting migrant shelters along the Texas-Mexico border, picked up the remaining 21,000 pounds. Their journey took them to Ascension, Chihuahua, where potatoes began being distributed the following day. Individuals in the community received bags of potatoes, while the rest were shared among the migrant shelters Tierra de Oro supports.

In just four days, 31,000 pounds of potatoes found their way into the hands of those who needed them most, from local families in El Paso to migrant communities along the border. This incredible effort was a result of working in unity among YLM and its partnering organizations, such as OGT.  The opportunity to spread hope, kindness, and the powerful reminder that even in challenging times, generosity and care can make a world of difference, made the entire process a joy to behold.

Your continued support towards the ministries of YLM make it possible for us to show mercy through partnerships with other like-minded organizations. Help YLM continue to change lives through acts of love and kindness by donating towards a ministry of your choice!