Submitted Photo Pictured are members of the Lakeshore Assembly of God Church who facilitated the distribution to Westfield’s First Responders and community members on Dec. 7.

WESTFIELD — Besides passing out hundreds of coupons for free groceries and household products at the recent “Parade of Lights” in Westfield, Lakeshore Assembly of God Church presented special coupons to Westfield’s police officers, volunteer firefighters, and the Westfield Food Pantry clients. Many accepted the invitation and on Dec. 7, the church welcomed more than 60 families who came and selected groceries and household products of their choosing.

The pastor of the church, Vinny Sanzo, reported the items distributed were received from an Assemblies of God ministry called Rural Compassion, which equips rural churches in small communities with the help of Convoy of Hope to reach out into their communities. A number of local businesses also donated items for this food/product give-away.

During the distribution to Westfield’s First Responders and others, Pastor Vinny said, “We’re here because we care, and part of caring is being motivated by the love of Jesus to reach out within our community. Doing this is such a delight and our people are very energized to be able to serve our community.”

Lakeshore Church is already making plans to serve the Westfield School with certain items as well as having another type of give-away in the near future.