Serving Our Homebound Neighbors with Faith, Compassion, and Love
The Take & Eat Ministry at Blessed Sacrament Parish
brings together volunteers to prepare and deliver
nutritious meals, free of charge,
to homebound seniors in our community.
Through this ministry, we share not only food,
but also friendship, kindness, and the love of Christ.
Our Ministry at Blessed Sacrament
Established at Blessed Sacrament Parish in 2009, our Take & Eat Ministry continues a tradition of service rooted in the Gospel.
On the second Sunday of each month, dedicated parishioners and volunteers prepare and deliver meals to homebound seniors.
Each meal represents more than nourishment. It offers a personal connection, a reminder that someone cares, and reassurance that those who are homebound have not been forgotten.
The History of Take & Eat
The story of Take & Eat began in 2003 when Deacon Francis J. Ryan, Ed.D., and his wife, Kathleen Ryan, founded Take and Eat, Inc. in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts.
Recognizing that many elderly and homebound individuals received Meals on Wheels during the week but often lacked access to nutritious meals on weekends and holidays, Deacon Frank and Kathleen felt called to respond.
Their vision was simple but powerful: to bring people of faith together to prepare and deliver meals, free of charge, to individuals who could no longer easily shop or prepare food for themselves.
What began as an act of compassion grew into a ministry reaching across churches and communities throughout Western Massachusetts.
That same spirit inspired the establishment of Take & Eat at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Holyoke in 2009.
Over the years, countless volunteers have generously contributed their time, cooking skills, energy, and compassion to carry this important work forward.
Faith in Action
The name Take & Eat recalls Christ's words at the Last Supper. It is an invitation not only to receive nourishment but also to share His love
with others.
We gratefully remember the vision of Deacon Frank and Kathleen Ryan and the many volunteers who have helped sustain this ministry. Their legacy continues in every meal prepared, every delivery made, and every life touched.
Get Involved
Whether you are interested in volunteering with the Take & Eat Ministry at Blessed Sacrament Parish or exploring the possibility
of establishing this ministry at your own parish, we welcome your interest.
Ministry Contact: Deacon Wendell Pennell
Parish: Blessed Sacrament Parish, Holyoke, MA
Take & Eat is more than a meal.
It is faith in action, love in service, and the Gospel lived one meal at a time.