AUGUSTA, Ga. – As the festive season draws nearer, the Golden Harvest Food Bank is gearing up for one of its busiest times of the year at The Master’s Table in Augusta. With the holiday spirit in full swing, the facility is set to welcome families in need, offering them much-needed warmth and nourishment through hundreds of meals.

The dedicated team, comprising both staff and volunteers, is ready to devote countless hours to the meticulous preparation and serving of traditional holiday delicacies. Their collective effort ensures that no one in the community goes hungry during this cherished time of year.

Doug Johnson, a seasoned cook at The Master’s Table, finds profound meaning in this mission. “For me, this is about fulfillment,” he expressed. Being a family man himself, Johnson understands the importance of community support, saying, “I know I would want someone to feed me if I was in need. When I see these kids, and these moms and dads who don’t have anything, at least I can just feed them. That’s my fulfillment.”

The culinary lineup promises a feast, with Johnson preparing a sumptuous holiday spread. The menu includes savory ham, collard greens, creamy mashed potatoes, rice, yams, and an assortment of desserts, ensuring that everyone who visits can enjoy a hearty meal filled with the flavors of the season.

Johnson said he’s preparing a full holiday spread, including ham, collard greens, mashed potatoes, rice, yams, and a variety of desserts. 

He adds that some menu favorites—like his spaghetti and chopped steak—are always a hit with guests.

For many who come through the doors, volunteers say the experience goes beyond the food itself.  The Master’s Table has become a place of connection, where familiar faces return and relationships are built over shared meals.

“I love kids and meeting families,” said Anita Williams with The Master’s Table. 

“Kids coming here touched my heart. I just love Jesus Christ, because He is the reason for the holiday season. Even when it’s not the holidays, people come here, they gravitate, and they always say ‘God bless you’ and ‘thank you.’  That means a lot for someone who doesn’t have a place to eat or no place to sleep.”

Volunteers say the need is especially evident this year, as some families continue to feel the effects of economic strain and the recent government shutdown.  For those serving meals, the experience is a humbling reminder of the importance of community during the holidays.

Those interested in volunteering or needing information on receiving a meal can visit https://GoldenHarvest.org.  

The community kitchen will provide hot Christmas meals on Wednesday and Thursday at the Master’s Table (702 Fenwick St, Augusta, GA 30901), with serving hours from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Organizers say lines typically begin forming around 10:30 a.m., as families arrive early for a warm meal and a welcoming place to gather.