Severe rainstorms last week dumped 15 to more than 20 inches of water across Brevard County, turning parts of Melbourne, including the 55‑plus community of Lamplighter Village, into a temporary lake. While floodwaters have receded, many residents remain without kitchens, electricity, or reliable food sources.
Graceway Church steps in with a free dinner
On Tuesday night, Graceway Free Will Baptist Church, located just down the road from Lamplighter Village, hosted a free spaghetti dinner for residents, their families, and friends. Approximately 50 people gathered in the church’s Fellowship Hall to share the meal.
“It’s a blessing, you know? So many people are without kitchens and food and electricity that for them to open up their church and feed us like this, it’s just a big blessing and it’s amazing,” said Jeanette Banta, a Lamplighter Village resident.
Pastor Matt Berry explained the church’s motivation: “We want to love our neighbors as ourselves, and we just decided this is one small way that we can help give back to our community.” He added that the church also prepared to‑go boxes for families who need food later.
“Anybody that has been affected by this storm, come out to Graceway Church, and we want to feed you and be a blessing to you Tuesday night from five to seven,” Berry said.
Upcoming assistance
Graceway Free Will Baptist Church plans to host another free dinner for Lamplighter Village residents and other flood‑impacted individuals next Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 938 Lytton Road in Melbourne. The church invites anyone still struggling after the storm to attend.
The effort reflects a broader wave of local faith‑based groups stepping up to aid neighbors after the flooding. By providing hot meals, to‑go food boxes, and a place of fellowship, Graceway Church is helping to restore a sense of normalcy and community for those whose lives were upended by the weather disaster.
Residents are encouraged to spread the word to anyone in need and to consider volunteering or donating to support ongoing relief efforts.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
