Meat Canning Project

For the 39th year, the Mid-Atlantic and SO PA Districts are co-sponsoring a Meat Canning project which previously has enjoyed a generous response and enthusiastic support

The project is scheduled for March 28-31 and April 4-5 (SIX DAYS), with April 6 reserved for labeling only, at the Christian Aid Ministries facility.

March 28, 29, 30, 31
April 4, 5, (6 labeling only)

Shift #1 – 6:00 am to NOON
Assist in starting the day’s process,
participate in the cutting,
canning and labeling.
(25 volunteers needed)

Shift #2 – 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Participate in the total process
of the program.
(15 volunteers needed)

The 2016 Meat Canning goal is to can approximately 50,000 pounds of chicken in six days of processing.

From 2003 through 2015, the two Districts’ congregations gave a total of $996,460.89 toward this project. If we are on target this year, we should surpass a million dollars. Starting funds are relatively stable, but we still need to raise money if we intend to meet our goal. Expenses include the cost of the chicken, use of CAM’s facility, labels, boxes, miscellaneous supplies, as well as shipping costs, when applicable. Congregations are encouraged to take offerings during January, February, March and April for this ministry of sharing and to forward these funds to their respective District Office.

In order for the committee to provide adequate help for each shift, it is important that you inform your District office ASAP when you will be available to volunteer. Shift assignments will be made by the District Offices on a first-come-basis. Once you have pledged volunteers, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR FINDING REPLACEMENTS if you are unable to fulfill your commitment. No shows create schedule problems and an increase in inspector fees.

A shift of 25 persons is needed to work from 6 a.m. to noon (20 of those persons should be able to process the chicken, while the others are needed for labeling.) A second shift of 15 persons is needed to come in at 9 a.m. and relieve some of the first shift. Canning will continue until approximately 11:00 a.m. with labeling to continue until about 2:30 p.m.

The Meat Canning Project is a great way for us to minister to those in need during these difficult economic times. As in the past, a portion of the meat from this project will be provided to both Districts to be shared with local food banks and meal programs. The Meat Canning Committee has decided to wait until Spring 2016 to determine who will receive distribution outside the U.S.

The Meat Canning Committee is very grateful to those congregations who will be providing free snacks and a light lunch (for all workers) to be available during each shift. The Mid-Atlantic District will be partnering with some of the SO PA District congregations who are willing to prepare a meal, but are short on funds. Please contact your district office if your congregation is willing to provide a meal or funds.

> Meat Canning Project Brochure — Get all the details!
> Volunteer List

Processed at:
Christian Aid Ministries
2412 Division Highway, Ephrata, PA

Sponsored by:
Southern PA &
Mid-Atlantic Districts COB