As Thanksgiving approaches each year, the Hillcrest Children's Home campus of COMPACT Family Services anxiously prepares a team of dedicated workers for a unique harvest. These workers make the scenic drive to Herreid, South Dakota to join the Rueb family and others in partnership with the International Ministry Network (formerly known as the German District of the Assemblies of God). Preparations are made year round for the one day to process beef and pork donations that this district faithfully provides our campus.

 

As the morning sun breaches the Dakota horizon, the processing begins and continues until all of the meat has been cut, wrapped, labeled and packaged for its long journey back via Convoy of Hope; a faithful partner in this transition of much needed meat for the children and youth at Hillcrest Children's Home and Highlands Maternity Home.

 

This annual gift began in 1978 and has provided a vital part of our food resource throughout these years.  This year, 10 cows and 30 pigs were provided. 

 

We truly believe these faithful servants of the North understand that as they give food to these precious residents, they are also giving to a God that loves beyond our understanding and will reward them beyond measure.

 

In the words of our Food Services Managers, Ervin and Alice Ellsworth, "[The] meat freezer is stocked once again by our great friends in South Dakota! Thank you for the love you've bestowed on this great ministry! We are in continual gratitude throughout the year because of your efforts."