On the latest episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sat down with Susan and Paul Gould to discuss the organization’s mission, its remarkable growth, and the community support that has sustained it over the past decade and a half.
Operating out of the First United Methodist Church, commonly known as Broadway Methodist Church, Loaves and Fishes serves breakfast every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. in the church’s annex building. The program is open to everyone, regardless of income or circumstance, with no registration, identification, or eligibility requirements.
What began with a single guest on opening day has grown into a program that now serves an average of 100 people each day. During July alone, volunteers prepared and served more than 1,700 meals, including 436 breakfasts in a single week.
The program was created after organizers recognized a growing need for accessible meals within the community. Inspired by the biblical story of Jesus feeding the multitude, the name Loaves and Fishes reflects both its faith-based roots and its mission of providing for others.
Keeping the breakfast program running is truly a community effort. Most of the food comes through the Sauk Valley Foodbank, allowing the organization to purchase ingredients at reduced costs. Financial support comes from private donations, grants, local foundations, and area churches that regularly designate offerings to help fund the ministry.
One aspect that sets Loaves and Fishes apart is that every person involved is a volunteer. No one receives a paycheck, allowing nearly every dollar donated to go directly toward feeding guests. Volunteers come not only from the host church but from congregations throughout Sterling, Rock Falls, and the surrounding communities, along with individuals simply looking for a meaningful way to serve.
The breakfast menu changes throughout the week, offering meals such as French toast, sausage links, cheesy potatoes, and other hot breakfasts. Thursdays have become especially popular thanks to the weekly biscuits and gravy, a tradition that has developed a loyal following. Organizers even schedule occasional outdoor cookouts on Fridays to avoid disappointing regular Thursday guests who come specifically for their favorite meal.
Beyond the food itself, Susan and Paul emphasized that the program’s greatest purpose is creating a place where everyone feels welcome. Their goal has always been to eliminate barriers and ensure every person who walks through the door is treated with dignity and kindness.
As Loaves and Fishes celebrates 15 years of service, its continued success remains rooted in volunteers, generous donors, and a community committed to making sure no one has to go without a hot breakfast.
Those interested in volunteering, making a financial contribution, or supporting the program can contact Loaves and Fishes through the First United Methodist Church in Sterling. Every donation, no matter the size, helps provide meals to neighbors in need.
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