Because of God’s Grace (BOGG) Ministries is a local nonprofit organization with the goals of bringing “the church out into the world, and not to be restricted to a building.” By making these efforts they hope to express God’s love for those who are hurting. Jason Barton and Jason Johnston created the Mobile Meals program that operates through BOGG Ministries to help bring these goals to life.
The two Jasons founded BOGG Ministries in 2010 in Miamisburg. Jason J., a Centerville resident, sat down to tell us about their programs.
Jason J. recalls that the genesis of their food ministry was learning that Dayton was in the top 10 hungriest cities in 2010.
“We couldn’t know that information and do nothing about it,” he explains. “Jason Barton had a heart for helping people with food support and I had a heart to help the Dayton community. Together, we started by assisting four families.”
The Mobile Meals program operates at a variety of locations throughout the Dayton area. Today, Mobile Meals serves up to 300 families each week. Jason J. says he has seen the community need grow each year.
“Families are in tight situations or concerned about where the world is going. That has brought some people to our events,” he shares. “With grocery items costing more, we hope families will come and get what they need.”
The program aims to provide 50-80 pounds of free food per family, about 10,000 pounds total, at each event. Jason J. estimates that BOGG gives away about a million pounds of food each year. He notes that a $1 donation will provide two meals. The organization's goal is to provide enough meals for a family of three for a three-to-five-day period, but anyone and any family size is welcome.
Visitors to their events are not considered clients–they’re considered friends.
“Through this program, we have been able to be friends and support those in a rough season of life,” he adds.
To encourage a community connection, the Mobile Meals events include a block party celebration at each location from April through October. Friends will receive a hot meal and food to take home. The majority of events are open to the public, and events are held in Kettering, Moraine, Dayton, Centerville, West Carrollton and Xenia.
BOGG Ministries is also mindful that needs are not limited to food and they emphasize physical, social and emotional needs as well. Activities for children are available at each event, in addition to referrals for community services, clothing and support groups. New friends or anyone in need are welcome to attend.
Each event requires at least one staff member and 15-25 volunteers. More volunteers are always needed and volunteer opportunities are available Mondays through Thursdays.
“BOGG is a Dayton story with a simple mission,” Jason J. shares. “Love people. Feed people. Our goal is to stay in our lane and do what we do best.”
For more information, to donate or volunteer, email wecare@thebogg.org or visit TheBogg.org.
“We couldn’t know that information and do nothing about it.”