It’s that time of year when brackets, upsets, and friendly rivalries take over. So let’s lean in and use the fun of March Madness to do some real good in our community.

Because the need is so great right now, our Food Drive Bracket Challenge starts now. This is a simple, joyful way for all of us to jump in quickly and help provide weekend food bags for students and families in our area.

Here’s how it works: you “score points” for your favorite food-item team by bringing donations, and as the tournament continues, items advance just like a real bracket. You don’t have to know anything about basketball to participate. Just bring groceries and have fun with it.

Check Out This Year’s Matchups:

Chicken v. Tuna
A classic rematch. Two cans enter, one can leaves. The pantry will never be the same.

Green Beans v. Corn
The great veggie debate. One is trying to be responsible, the other is sweet-talking its way to the Final Four.

Peanut Butter v. Jelly
PB is the reigning champ, thick and confident. Jelly is coming in slippery with upset potential and a grudge.

Milk v. Juice
Breakfast throws down. Calcium vs. chaos. Only one gets the top shelf in the fridge.

Pop Tarts v. Granola Bars
Sugar with frosting vs. “I read the nutrition label.” This matchup is basically your morning decision, but louder.

Instant Oatmeal v. Instant Grits
North meets South in a boil-water brawl. One says “comfort,” the other says “bless your heart.”

Mashed Potatoes v. Rice Packets
Comfort food regionals. Fluffy crowd-pleaser vs. the reliable teammate that never misses a game.

Fruit Cups v. Pudding Cups
The “Is this a snack or dessert?” debate. One is technically fruit. The other is here to win hearts and ruin diets.

Graphic representation of brackets for a tournament

Now, let me tell you why this matters so much.

Our Backpack Buddy ministry has grown in a big way. At the start of the school year, we were preparing 40 bags each week. Now we’re preparing 116 bags to support students at Langston Chapel Elementary School, Langston Chapel Middle School, and Coastal Plains High School.

Those numbers aren’t just statistics. Those are children and families, right in our community, who need extra nutritional support heading into the weekend. And it’s our church showing up with steady love, practical help, and a message that says, “You are seen, known, and loved.”

So, let’s have some fun with this! Bring your best “team” donation. Invite a friend to join in. And together, let’s turn March Madness into meaningful impact for our neighbors.

God bless, 

Jonathan Smith 

For Jesus. For People. For Community. 

Let’s Go Peanut Butter!!