It is the basket a member of St. James carries marked “Pantry” during the offering. Do you know why the basket exists? And where does the money go? The sign would suggest a food pantry. Well, that’s true, but it is much more than that. It is St. James' (your) continuing support of Central City Churches (CCC).
Central City Churches’ Outreach Ministry
The CCC Outreach Ministry is housed at Our Savior's Lutheran Church and operates a food pantry that has a 40-year history in the St. Paul's/Our Savior's neighborhood.
The CCC OM provides physical, emotional and spiritual support by offering the following to neighbors:
• Daytime safe haven
• Food pantry
• Hospitality including daily refreshments and light lunches October through April
• Telephone, FAX and computer with internet access
• Resource people including a health and wellness professional and housing advocate
• Social service and health referrals
• Stock boxes for senior adults
Central Community Interfaith
Central Community is a Neighborhood Outreach Program of Interfaith Older Adult Programs, Inc. that began as Central City Churches Interfaith located at Gesu Parish. It combined with Community Interfaith and the office moved to Washington Park Senior Center. A neighborhood Director coordinates volunteer services for seniors who are in need of help with shopping, transportation and socialization.
Over 1100 individuals and families are served by the Outreach Ministry every month!
The Pantry Basket is a visible sign of multiple services being provided on our behalf as we continue “to serve in the central city of Milwaukee.” The reality is as the churches on the Avenue struggle with fewer members and finances, the more important the Central City Churches organization becomes.
Linda Steiger
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