It has been said before but merits repeating. Efforts to feed the hungry, providing both physical and moral sustenance, are perhaps among the most selfless and honorable actions human beings can undertake.

It is with that in mind that First United Methodist in Ironton has designated Oct. 24 as “Harvest for the Hungry Sunday.”

The goal is to support the Downtown Food Pantry by spurring individual donations and also giving other organizations a reason and motivation to pitch in and help.

The pantry, which actually serves the entire county, feeds more than 4,000 people a year, with that number growing almost monthly in terms of those in need and also the cost to provide that service.

And anyone lending a hand can rest assured that their contributions will go a long ways and toward the right cause. The pantry is funded strictly by donations from churches, organizations and individuals in the community. It is staffed solely by volunteers.

The effort is truly non-denominational.

The pantry was founded by St. Paul Lutheran Church, first Presbyterian Church, Coal Grove United Methodist Church, St. Joseph and St. Lawrence O’Toole Catholic churches, Quinn chapel A.M.E. Zion, Haverhill United Methodist Church, Christ Episcopal Church, First United Methodist Church and what is now Resurrection Hope United Methodist Church. Other churches have joined in the cause too.

First United and other churches deserve to be honored as this week’s “Good News, Good Neighbors” feature.

So, take a moment to think about what it would be like not to have food on the table or provide your family.

A little compassion could be the difference between an empty and a full stomach.