From a Few Coins to Hosting Archbishops

Judy Andrews' involvement with Bread for the World began more than 20 years ago. But her education about poverty began in childhood.

"My mother loved to travel. When I was five we took a train to the mountains of Mexico. There were always children begging alongside the train," Judy recalls.

 Though a child herself, she was moved by the plight of these children.

"My mother encouraged me to help the way I could at the time, by giving them all the coins in my purse."

In the early 1980s, Judy and her husband, Rich Andrews, had more resources than a few coins in a purse. Once again, she struggled with how to use their wealth to help people in need.  She talked with her pastor, Monsignor Bill Steele of St. Cyril of Alexandria Church in Houston.

"He taught me that I was in a position to influence other people of wealth and that I should not squander that opportunity, but be responsible for poor people," Judy says. "He introduced me to Bread for the World and then I started that church's Bread group."

Rich himself has also played a role in encouraging Judy's activism.

"He's in the investment counsel business. He recommended that I invest in something of value and with time I would see it grow. So, I invested in Bread for the World, and the return is more for hungry people because of the leverage that Bread provides. Now Rich serves on the Special Gifts Committee with me, and helps Bread manage its endowment."  

Judy and Rich established a family foundation to facilitate their charitable giving. Getting their three children — Ginny, William and Peter— involved is important to Judy. Ginny serves on the foundation board.

Judy also makes efforts to reach out to other church communities. Recently, she hosted a dinner in Houston with Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza, newly retired from the Galveston-Houston Diocese, and with BFW President David Beckmann. She invited 30 people she felt would be moved by hearing Bread for the World's story.

Archbishop Fiorenza, a long-time BFW supporter, noted that Bread for the World's work is consistent with Roman Catholic teaching to seek justice for hungry and poor people. He commended participation to all in attendance.

Many thanks to Judy and Rich Andrews for their faithful service to hungry people!

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