Knightly News

“For I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.” Matthew 25:35

For some time now, the Episcopal community has generously supported The Shepherd’s Market holiday food drive, donating thousands of pounds of food for area families. This year, Father Patrick announced an adjustment to the annual tradition.

“This year is especially challenging for our partner, The Shepherd’s Market, due to a substantial reduction in monetary contributions they have received this year. They are also under an increased burden to meet the needs of the hungry in Baton Rouge due to the conditions that have suspended funding for SNAP and other government support programs that help people to afford the necessities of life. To meet this heightened need, our primary commitment this year is to provide financial support,” Father Patrick wrote in a letter to families.

“For the Shepherd’s Market’s ‘Great Turkey Giveaway’ we will help to provide a holiday meal to 500 families, including the turkey, sides, seasoning, fresh produce, and an aluminum pan to cook these. The Shepherd’s Market needs a significant amount of money from the Baton Rouge community to purchase turkeys for the giveaway (around $10,000). We are asking for financial contributions because Shepherd’s Market can purchase turkeys at a much lower cost through their partnerships with grocery stores than we could ourselves,” Father Patrick stated.

Financial donations can be made through PayPal, the QR code below or cash. In addition, for families who would also like to contribute food, organizers are requesting the following:

• Lower School students are asked to donate 500 boxed potatoes (scalloped, mashed, etc.)
• Middle School students are asked to donate 500 full-size seasoning containers (salt/pepper, Tony’s, etc.)
• Upper School students are asked to donate 500 canned vegetables (carrots, green beans, etc.)

Families can drop off food donations next week (November 17-21) in morning carpool.

About Shepherd’s Market:

According to the Shepherd’s Market website, the organization was founded in 2012 and is a client-choice food pantry serving the hungry and needy in south Baton Rouge. “Our mission is to provide physical food for the hungry and spiritual food for the needy.” The site lists the organization’s goals as eradicating hunger in south Baton Rouge, feeding all who seek assistance by increasing food and monetary donations, sharing dignity and respect with all clients and enlisting others to partner with them. The organization is 100% volunteer-operated, so all financial support is spent directly on food and household items for families in need.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.