The ministry's board of directors celebrated the note burning after its regular meeting. (Courtesy photo)

BELTON (July 20, 2012)—After the board of directors of Belton’s Helping Hands Ministry met to talk business Tuesday, members went outside and set a fire, burning a copy of the fully paid note on the ministry’s building.

The ministry signed a $400,000 lease-purchase agreement in September 2008 with Sonny Wooley Properties Management, L.C. and made the final payment in June.

Most of the money used to pay for the building came from local residents.

The E.R. Carpenter Foundation contributed $30,000.

A woman who was a client made one of the first donations, $7, in 2008.

“God has definitely blessed this ministry. He is always pleased when His followers put theological differences aside in order to work together to serve Him by loving and serving those in need,” Executive Director Rucker Preston said.

“We will be able to better meet the needs of our neighbors now that we are without any debt,” he said.

The ministry helps about 3,400 people with groceries, spiritual counseling, household items, school supplies and rent and utility assistance.

It also offers free education classes three days a week.