Here's what our Mercy Chefs team served to hurting families for dinner yesterday...

That's a delicious offering of jambalaya, featuring smoked sausage (provided by our friends at Kiolbassa Smoked Meats), cilantro-lime rice, fresh fruit and a lemon cookie. It's the kind of meal you'd find at a nice restaurant in the French Quarter of New Orleans, In fact, our team in McCallen, Texas, said the jambalaya was a nod to my New Orleans roots.

I want you to see what we're serving because I believe this is what makes Mercy Chefs one of the most impactful relief organizations in the country. During disasters and other crisis situations, quite often all people will receive is the equivalent of "MREs" -- military-style rations. When I went to New Orleans in response to Hurricane Katrina, it broke my heart that many of those impacted by that storm and devastation didn't receive quality meals. That experience directly led me to launch Mercy Chefs.

It's difficult to put into words the impact a high-quality, chef-prepared meal has on those who are facing a crisis. Quite often, the person on the receiving end is at first shocked that such a delicious and nutritious meal is being offered to them. Then, we see a sense of relief overtake them. Maybe even a smile. Or tears of relief. Despite whatever current difficulties they may be facing, a Mercy Chefs meal lets them know that there is light and hope just ahead.

This week, our Mercy Chefs team will prepare thousands of hot meals and countless more food boxes that will help feed hundreds of thousands. We are in the greatest season of ministry opportunity in the history of Mercy Chefs, but with these opportunities come financial challenges.

Today, I have the challenge of making sure Mercy Chefs teams are fully deployed and fully resourced to help feed up to a half million people this week. Will you help me in this great mission of service to those who are hurting? Go here to make your tax-deductible gift directly to Mercy Chefs:

+ + 19 more food box distributions this week!

In addition to our work in McAllen and the meals we're offering through our community kitchens, Mercy Chefs is providing 19 food box distributions as part of the "Farmers to Families" program. The need is still enormous, and we are relying on the faithful partnership of friends like you to continue this work!

Please prayerfully consider how you can help. Then, go here to make your gift to support Mercy Chefs this week.

Thank you in advance, and God bless!

Gary LeBlanc, Mercy Chefs