Rossville UMC steps up to help area food bank

1/10/2012

Rossville UMC members Larry Ross and Lois Lacock help hand out food at the Harvesters distribution in Rossville Dec. 28. (photo by Lori Schwilling)
Rossville is one community served by Harvesters, a Topeka-area food bank. Last November, it appeared that food distribution in Rossville would be suspended during the winter months because of a lack of volunteers.

Ray Kahrs, a Rossville resident and Harvesters volunteer, asked for help from Rossville United Methodist Church. As a result, Rossville UMC has partnered with Harvesters for the months of December, January, February and March. 

The congregation has committed to having at least eight volunteers for each food-distribution day during those months, ensuring that those in need will not go hungry during the hardest months of the year.

On Rossville’s first day, Dec. 28, eight volunteers were needed to help with distribution, but 20 volunteers showed up to help.
 
Part of the Rossville congregation’s identity is mission and outreach to the community. The church houses a food pantry and clothes closet and provide emergency financial assistance to those in need. 

“Partnering with Harvesters seems like a natural extension of our existing ministry, and we are excited about this new opportunity to be Christ’s presence in our community,” said Pastor Lori Schwilling.

“It was a great day. Very encouraging!”