by Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams
For over 55 years, Christian Service has been a beacon of hope for the Shreveport community, providing meals, clothing, and support to those in need. Under the leadership of Executive Director Al Moore, the organization continues to fulfill its mission of feeding the hungry and serving the less fortunate, all without accepting federal funding.
Al Moore’s path to Christian Service was not one he initially envisioned. A graduate of Fair Park High School in 1981, Moore joined the military immediately after graduation and served for four years. After returning home, he pursued a career in broadcasting, working for KTAL as a broadcast engineer and technical director. Later, he transitioned to Cablevision of Shreveport, which later became Time Warner Cable and then Comcast. It was during his time at Cablevision in 1990 that he met Sister Margaret McCaffrey, the founder of Christian Service, and became involved in the organization.
“I never dreamed of being the director of Christian Service,” Moore admits. “But God sent me here for a reason.”
Christian Service was founded in 1970 by Sister Margaret McCaffrey, who saw a dire need for feeding children before they went to school. What began as a small breakfast program grew into a full-scale initiative that has continued for decades. After Sister Margaret’s passing in 1998, Brother Giovanni Reed took over leadership until 2013, when he became ill and the board of directors asked Moore to step in.
The organization operates on the principle of offering a “hand up” rather than a handout. With the dedication of its staff and volunteers, Christian Service provides two hot meals a day, 364 days a year—closing only on Christmas Day. Breakfast is served from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, and lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Christian Service relies entirely on community donations and unrestricted grants to sustain its mission. It costs approximately $4.12 per meal, and a donation of $30 can provide one person with a hot meal for a week, while $130 covers meals for an entire month.
“Think about it—when you’re hungry, you can’t focus, you can’t study, you can’t function,” Moore explains. “But when someone comes through our doors with their head down and leaves with their head up because they’ve had a hot meal, that’s what keeps us going.”
In addition to meal services, Christian Service operates a clothing store that provides free clothing to those in need. The store, organized like a traditional retail space, is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, allowing clients to shop every 90 days.
The organization also welcomes volunteers from church groups, fraternities, and any other groups, including those fulfilling court-mandated community service hours. Youth volunteers under 18 are permitted to assist with a parent or guardian present, ensuring a safe environment for all.
Despite its long-standing success, Christian Service faces challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of Moore’s role is enforcing rules that sometimes require barring individuals who cause disruptions. However, he remains committed to treating everyone with dignity and respect, ensuring a peaceful environment for those who come seeking help.
The rising homeless population and potential cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP also pose threats. However, Moore remains steadfast in his faith: “God sent me here to do this work, and I trust He will provide a way for us to continue.”
One of Moore’s proudest accomplishments was keeping Christian Service open during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many organizations shut down, Christian Service adapted by implementing a takeout system, ensuring no one went hungry.
Looking ahead, Moore is confident that Christian Service will continue to serve the community for years to come. “I may not be here forever, but Christian Service will. Sister Margaret’s vision is still alive, and we’re feeding people 364 days a year.”
For those looking to support Christian Service, donations and volunteers are always welcome. The organization is located at 2346 Levy Street, Shreveport, Louisiana. More information can be found by calling (318) 221-4858 are on their website at ChristianServiceLA.org.
As Moore emphasizes, “We can’t do it without the community.”