A soup kitchen experience opened the eyes of middle and high school students to the needs of people who are going through rough times.

A group of youth volunteers from First Baptist Church on Miami Avenue handed out hot meals and warm clothing at a soup kitchen Saturday in the Fishers of Men Bible Church parking lot.

"I was really surprised to see that there were so many people in this area who need some kind of help," said Abner Albino, a high school senior who was passing out fresh bread to families. "It is hard to believe that people in this area need food and clothes."

The brisk weather brought out lots of people who were looking for a hot lunch.

Besides food, the soup kitchen provides warm clothing and encouragement. It is held every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church parking lot, 204 South U.S. 41 Bypass, and is open to everyone.

"It just feels good to do this," said Manatee Community College student Tim Lewis.

He said he could be doing a lot of other things on a Saturday morning, but decided he would rather be at the soup kitchen helping people for a few hours.

Struggling

Jim McCleland, pastor of Fishers of Men Bible Church, said every week individuals from Sarasota to North Port come to the soup kitchen seeking food and clothing.

"The student volunteers help us distribute food and clothing once a month, and we are happy to have their help," he said.

The students bring a special enthusiasm to the soup kitchen that makes everyone feel more comfortable, he said.

Fishers of Men Bible Church was started by McCleland and his wife, Lynette, about three years ago. When they arrived in Venice from Illinois, the first thing they noticed were people fishing on the pier for food. They decided to name the church for that experience.

"We try to talk to everyone in an effort to find out what their situation is," Lynette McCleland said. "There are families struggling to survive that don't have enough food to get through the week," she said.

The church feeds about 100 people every Saturday. Food is donated by Publix as well as Morton's Market and Honey Baked Ham, both in Sarasota. A Venice produce stand donates its excess inventory each week.

Donations of furniture, bedding and clothing are all needed. Everything is given away free without any obligation. Donations can be brought to Fishers of Men Bible Church parking lot on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"It's fun to help people, and it's good to know they really need my help," said Nathan Bowling, a Venice Middle School student.

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