Our Story.

Stepping Stone Mission of Franklin County began when Joanne Patterson felt a strong calling from the Lord to help those facing hardship. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a hot meal, the mission serves a free lunch every day , offers take-home food, and connects individuals with local resources to meet their basic needs. It has been through the Lord’s provision and the many ways our community answers his call that we celebrate 19 years and we are committed to giving thanks for his blessings before every meal.

Our Mission.

At Stepping Stone Mission of Franklin County, we are committed to reaching out to those in need with compassion and dignity. We provide a meal to individuals and families who are unable to secure it for themselves, connect them with additional community resources, and share the hope and love of Jesus Christ with all we serve.

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.

- Matthew 25:35

Our Impact.

Our 2024 impact summary.

  • 16,536 meals were served

  • An average of 294 individuals from our community relied on our services each month.

  • Our community agencies completed 834 patron interactions.

  • We received and served or distributed over 125,000 lbs. of donated food items to individuals and families in our area.

Our Partners.

At Stepping Stone Mission, we are proud to partner with a wide network of local businesses who share our passion for fighting hunger and building a stronger community. These generous partners support our mission by donating food, essential supplies, or financially to keep our kitchen running. Each partnership plays a vital role in ensuring no one in Franklin County goes hungry. Together, we are not only filling plates but also creating hope, dignity, and opportunities for those who need it most. This spirit of collaboration shows what can be accomplished when businesses and community organizations unite for a cause bigger than themselves.

  • SleepSafe Beds

  • Feeding Southwest Virginia’s Partner Pick-up program and their participating retailers; Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Sheetz!, Dollar General / Pell Ave. , Little Caesar’s Pizza.

  • Lake Christian Ministries

  • Franklin Heights Church - Garden

  • Faith Fellowship Church

  • National Wild Turkey Federation

  • Hunters for the Hungry

  • McDonalds | Rocky Mount

  • BoJangles | West Lake