Recently, the Friends of St. John partnered with Nina Santa Marina, president of the Cheffen Wilson Milton Foundation, to feed more than 500 families in the St. John the Baptist Parish area. Each year, Friends of St. John President John Swafford works diligently to gather a team of volunteers to assist in preparing meals to any and every one with a need during the holidays. Pastor Freddie Howard of Mount Calvary Baptist Church on West Third Street donated his church as a location to meet, greet and prepare the meals. Private monetary donations along with in-kind gifts helped make this year of giving a success.

Said Swafford, “I love doing what I do.  Each year is a challenge, and this year served as the greatest challenge compared to previous years. I will continue to press on though.” 

Swafford uses his personal funds to rent a U-Haul each year and travel the neighborhoods of St. John the Baptist Parish to deliver the meals.

St. John Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre attended the Friends of St. John “Meals on Wheels Thanksgiving Day Delivery” event and praised Swafford on his good deeds.

“You are doing a wonderful job, John and we all appreciate your efforts,” said Tregre.

To learn more about the Friends of St. John “Meals on Wheels” Thanksgiving Day Delivery Program, contact the Cheffen Wilson Milton Foundation at 504-684-5412.