AI Quarterly
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER
April • May • June 2026
Charles Deringer, Authentic Impact Director | Bryan Simpkins, Authentic Impact Coordinator
Newsletter by Juliana R. Baxter
Journalist, Authentic Impact Team Member
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“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me drink, I was a stranger, and you welcomed me.” — Matthew 25:35
What began with one man and a red truck has grown into one of Nassau County’s most essential food outreach programs. In 2008, Darryl Bellar, lead pastor of The Journey Church in Fernandina Beach, Florida, founded Authentic Impact with a simple mission: to collect food from local grocery stores and deliver it directly to families in need. From those humble beginnings, the ministry expanded to a small warehouse behind what is now the Loop Restaurant, where community members could walk in, receive groceries, and be served face-to- face by dedicated team members.
As the need increased, so did the vision. A defining early moment came when Bellar, with only twelve thousand dollars available, chose to give one-hundred-dollar gift cards to one hundred families in need, a decision that helped establish a culture of bold generosity. The ministry later moved to a temporary location across from Chick-fil-A while a permanent facility was being built, eventually settling into a space designed specifically for food outreach.
Today, under the leadership of Director Charles Deringer and Coordinator Bryan Simpkins, Authentic Impact continues to expand its reach, serving and blessing thousands in need throughout the community while remaining committed to showing the love of Christ in a tangible way.
INITIATIVE FEATURE
COMING SOON
Authentic Impact Expands Support with New Wellness Initiatives
Director Charles Deringer announces the upcoming launch of new educational programs focused on mental health, nutrition, and financial wellness. These classes will provide practical tools to help individuals and families strengthen their daily lives.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to supporting not only immediate needs, but also long-term stability and overall well-being.
Stop and Swap
At Authentic Impact, a simple initiative is reshaping distribution days. After receiving their boxes, families may exchange items they cannot use for ones that better fit their needs.
The swap area offers breads, desserts, and frozen meats, creating a space that reduces waste while helping families make the most of what they receive.
“It helps everybody. You get to meet people, see how grateful they are, and they leave happy,” said Sandra Deringer, team member.
MONTHLY SCHEDULE
Every Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Free Haircuts — Every 3rd Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Clothing Donations — Every 1st Tuesday of the Month
Thanks to our community partners for being part of our mission. Your commitment makes Authentic Impact possible every day. (904) 261-8310 • info@authenticimpact.com