Wasco Tribune - Serving the community since 1970

New Generation Church on Central Avenue passed out 500 barbecue chicken meals on Monday evening.

Church volunteers assisted in the food preparation, served up the take-home boxes and spread good will to everyone who drove up or walked up to the church entrance.

Pastor Frank Sanchez and Marcus Ballard were greeting attendees and chatting with guests as they picked up their meal.

One of the younger volunteer high school freshman Izabella Heredia said this was the first event she has volunteered for.

Toni DeRosa | Wasco Tribune

One of the many vehicles that drove up and picked up take-out chicken dinner.

"I like to help others," she said. "I'm excited to go to high school."

This week is Loving Our City Week at New Generation with 500 plates of food given out at 5 p.m. and cleaning up the city on Tuesday. Helpers arrived at the church at 5 p.m. and on Wednesday, first responders were given a day of thanks and love. On Thursday, kids received goodie buckets filled with summer activities.

On June 19, Juneteenth, the church will be celebrating Black History Month beginning at 10 a.m. with live music, choir, poetry reading and lots of food and craft vendors.

Loving Our City at New Generation is an annual celebration the church members participate in to bring fellowship to the forefront and connect with friends and neighbors.

Everyone is invited to participate and it's all free of charge.