Salvation Army ARC graduates work together to feed needy

The kitchen at The Salvation Army in Lubbock, Texas, was alive with activity as a group of children from Laura Bush Middle School spent the morning volunteering under the enthusiastic supervision of Chef Wayne. Some prepared meatballs while others organized the food pantry. The busy kitchen prepares and serves three meals a day, seven days a week for residents of the shelter and those in need.

"Working here at The Salvation Army makes me feel alive. I know that God has placed me here," said Chef Wayne who started working at The Salvation Army in Lubbock in July after receiving a call from his friend, Lieutenant David Beckham, assistant corps officer.

After struggles with addiction and homelessness, Lieutenant Beckham entered the Dallas Adult Rehabilitation Center, where he rediscovered his faith and received his calling to full-time ministry. It was there that he first met Wayne Bennett, also a beneficiary of the ARC program.

Before becoming an officer, Beckham worked for more than 25 years in the food and beverage industry. After completing training at Evangeline Booth College, he was assigned to Lubbock, where one of his responsibilities was supervision of the kitchen. He soon learned that they needed a chef and thought of his friend, Wayne, working in the Dallas ARC kitchen.

An early goal for Lieutenant Beckham was to reduce food costs, while improving the quality and quantity of the meals served. He and Chef Wayne have cut costs by more than half since July. "We have established successful local partnerships with the Food Bank, and negotiated discounts with Sams Club, Flowers Bakery and others," he said. "Instead of buying expensive pre-made sauces, Chef Wayne is now making his own."

Both men testify to God's leading and guidance in their lives that has seen them reunited at The Salvation Army in Lubbock. "I am so grateful for the opportunity to work and minister alongside Wayne again here at The Salvation Army," Lieutenant Beckham said. "I am excited for what the Lord has in store for us both.”