RONCEVERTE W.Va. (WVDN) – Edgewood Presbyterian Church held its first annual Penguin Plunge on Saturday, March 1 at Ronceverte Island Park, inviting participants to brave the frigid 44-degree waters for a charitable cause.
The event kicked off at 1 p.m., with plungers asked to arrive by noon. Local radio station 103.1 FM The Bear broadcasted live from the event between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., featuring on-air personalities Big Al and Buddy Bear.
“I’m so excited to see the participants jump in the water,” said organizer Jen Baker. “This is a fundraiser for the meal service we provide to anyone who wants or needs a meal, and we thank everyone involved or that service wouldn’t be possible.”
Participants were given awards, including best costume, and the first 100 plungers were treated to free hot chocolate and ham biscuits. All proceeds supported Edgewood Presbyterian Church’s Saturday of Service (SOS) ministry, which provides free monthly meals to those facing food insecurity in the Greenbrier Valley or for anyone who needs or wants it, according to Jen Baker, one of the organizers.
“These SOS meals are a labor of love. They have been expanding, and we know that food insecurity continues to be a huge problem in our state and county. We also know the cost of food has been skyrocketing, so events like this help the SOS continue their mission,” said Pastor Kristi Moore of the Edgewood Presbyterian Church.
The SOS ministry offers parishioners and others an opportunity to live the Gospel message that “in serving others, we are serving Jesus.” Initially launched during the pandemic to bring the church together for a meal while gathering in person was not possible, SOS has since grown into a vital community outreach program. They offer meals to those in need once each month.
On the third Saturday of each month, volunteer delivery teams distribute wholesome meals to residential housing facilities for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited incomes. Meals are also delivered to first responders, including the Greenbrier County 911 Center, Lewisburg Fire and Police Departments, Greenbrier County Emergency Services, and Peyton Hospice House. A drive-thru meal pickup at the church further extends the program’s reach.
SOS also serves those who are lonely, unable to cook homemade meals or simply in need of friendly interaction. Since its inception, the ministry has provided 23,674 meals, with 771 served in February alone. Additionally, new books are given to children, treats are provided for dogs arriving at the drive-thru and a “prayer pot” allows visitors to leave written prayer requests.
As the program continues to grow, so does the need for funding. While some recipients donate back to the cause, SOS is primarily funded through grants, donations, and fundraisers. Entering its fifth year, the ministry remains dedicated to addressing food insecurity within the Greenbrier Valley.
Edgewood Presbyterian Church is a Matthew 25 congregation, having accepted the Presbyterian Church USA’s invitation to follow Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 25:31-46 by becoming active disciples and making a difference in the community and the world. “Jesus wants us to serve others with love and kindness, without expecting anything in return. Yet in return, we get everything,” the church stated in its announcement.
For more information, contact 304-646-6929. Those interested in volunteering with SOS can contact the church at 304-645-6536.
