Ascension’s Meal Ministry brings parishioners together to prepare meals for individuals experiencing homelessness throughout the greater Oakland community.

Typically on the first Sunday of each month, volunteers gather during Coffee Hour to prepare more than 100 bagged lunches that are distributed to those in need. It’s a simple, hands-on way for people of all ages to serve our neighbors and put our faith into action.

Get Involved

Volunteer

Join us during Coffee Hour as we prepare and assemble bagged lunches together. All ages are welcome, and we especially encourage our K–12 youth and families to participate.

Dates are announced in the weekly bulletin and parish communications.

Donate

Financial contributions help us purchase the food and supplies needed to keep the Meal Ministry going.

Just $1.50 can help provide a meal for one person.

To support our Meal Ministry outreach program, please click the link below. Scroll down to the "Ministries" section to make your donation, which will be dedicated exclusively to our Meal Ministry outreach efforts.

Your generosity makes a real difference in our mission to help those in need. Thank you for your contribution.

What Goes in Each Bag

Our lunches typically include:

• PB&J sandwich

• Granola bar

• Fresh fruit, such as an apple or Cutie orange

• Bottled water

• Additional snacks and essentials as available

Our Community Partner

Ascension partners with Mission for the Homeless, a nonprofit organization serving individuals experiencing homelessness throughout Oakland.

Founded by Vincent Penizo, Mission for the Homeless provides compassionate, Christ-centered outreach and direct support to members of our local homeless community. Vincent serves as an important connection between our Meal Ministry and those we hope to serve, picking up the lunches prepared by our parishioners and distributing them directly throughout the community.

Everyone Can Serve

Whether you help make sandwiches, pack bags, donate toward supplies, or bring your family to participate, every contribution makes a difference.

We invite you to join us in this meaningful ministry of service, fellowship, and care for our neighbors.