Faith in Action: How Trinity on Fifth Began Their Volunteer Journey

Trinity on Fifth’s story with Meals from the Heartland began with a leap of faith. For years, their annual turkey dinner fundraiser supported the church’s operating needs. But in 2011, the congregation felt called to do something more - to turn the event outward and focus entirely on mission.

In an act of faith, they committed to raising $10,000 for Meals from the Heartland, twice as much as they had ever raised before. God multiplied their efforts. The community rallied, and the event brought in an incredible $25,000. Just a few months later, in February 2012, Trinity hosted its very first mobile packaging event - packing 125,000 meals in their Family Life Center.

That moment marked the start of a long and meaningful partnership that has continued to grow ever since.


Serving Together, Growing Together

Over the years, Trinity on Fifth has hosted several large mobile packaging events, bringing their congregation and community together for a shared purpose. In 2021, they introduced a new week-long format designed to make volunteering even more accessible. Small groups could now pack meals at their regular meeting times throughout the week, an approach that not only increased participation but also strengthened connections within the church.

One young mother, only available during a weekday afternoon shift, joined a group of church members she’d never met before. By the end of the shift, they were laughing, sharing stories, and serving side by side.

And during one event, a high school student was so inspired by her first shift that she returned several times throughout the week to help wherever she was needed. Her enthusiasm reflected the energy that fills every Trinity on Fifth packaging event with joy and alignment in mission.

“In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells us to let our good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our heavenly Father. That is why we package meals for hungry people we will never meet. It is our prayer that they might enjoy the meal and thank God for the nourishment. It is our privilege to partner with ministries such as Meals from the Heartland that are meeting very real physical needs while also sharing the love of Jesus.” - Pastor John, Lead Pastor at Trinity on Fifth.

A Community United by Service

At Trinity on Fifth, everyone has a role to play. The youngest children place stickers on bags or decorate boxes, while older members seal or weigh the meals, sometimes with the help of a chair. Families, youth groups, and small groups all find ways to contribute.

This spirit of inclusion embodies what it means to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus. “Everyone can get behind an effort to feed hungry children around the world in the name of Jesus,” Lead Pastor John, shared. Through Meals from the Heartland, the congregation has created space for every generation to serve together and make a tangible difference.

Living Out Their Mission

Trinity on Fifth’s mission is simple yet profound: To make it easy for people to Know Christ, Grow with Friends, and Impact the World Together.

Partnering with Meals from the Heartland has given that mission a global reach. Their ongoing commitment to packaging meals, working toward the incredible milestone of one million meals packed has allowed them to impact lives far beyond their church walls. Each scoop of rice and soy is a reflection of their faith in action, nourishing both bodies and minds around the world.

A Legacy of Faith and Impact

Trinity on Fifth’s journey with Meals from the Heartland is a testament to what’s possible when a church commits to serving with both hands and heart. Their faith-driven generosity has transformed meals into ministry, tables into mission, and fellowship into impact.

We’re deeply grateful for their partnership and inspired by how they continue to live out their faith by feeding the hungry, building community, and shining Christ’s light in Iowa and around the world.