Feeding Our Community: How You Can Make a Difference Through Our Food Pantry Ministry

Feeding Our Community: How You Can Make a Difference Through Our Food Pantry Ministry

Pastor Kevin Rutledge


At Berwyn United Methodist Church, our food pantry ministry is more than just a source of nourishment—it’s a lifeline for families facing tough times and a bridge to build stronger connections within our community. Since its inception, this ministry has touched the lives of over 100 unique households. Some rely on us for a single visit, while others find steady support each month.

The need is growing. In December 2022, we served 29 households. Today, we welcome an average of 134 individuals monthly—each one representing a story of resilience, hope, and need. With 1-3 new families arriving every month, our ministry has become a vital resource for our community.

Thanks to our partnership with the Chester County Food Bank, we also bring fresh produce, eggs, and pantry staples directly to residents at Trinity House in Berwyn. This monthly outreach ensures neighbors can access nutritious food with dignity and care.

What Does Volunteering Look Like?

This ministry thrives because of the dedication of our volunteers—people just like you who want to make a difference. Here’s a glimpse into the work that goes on behind the scenes and how you can get involved:

Volunteer Opportunities

1. Food Distribution

  • Trinity House Outreach: Help unload pallets of food, sort fresh produce, bag items, and set up the distribution space. After the event, volunteers deliver food to residents who couldn’t attend and bring any leftovers back to the church.
  • Church Pantry Days: Arrive early to sort food, decorate the space, assist guests with forms, and help them carry items to their cars.

2. Stocking and Organizing

Restock shelves at the pantry, refrigerate perishables, and keep our overflow room organized for the next distribution day.

3. Shopping and Ordering

Assist with grocery shopping and placing orders from the Chester County Food Bank to ensure our pantry stays well-stocked.

4. Data and Record-Keeping

Support our statistician by helping with forms and reports, which are crucial for tracking our impact and securing resources.

5. Engaging with Guests

Help guests complete forms, translate for non-English speakers, or simply listen to their stories. Volunteers often go the extra mile, assisting with tasks like finding housing, navigating government forms, or sharing words of encouragement.

6. Special Events and Meetings

Attend quarterly food bank meetings or focus groups to stay informed and help shape the future of this ministry.

7. Building Relationships

Learn the names of the people we serve, offer treats to children, and bring warmth to our space through thoughtful, personal touches.

Make an Impact Today

When you volunteer with our food pantry, you’re doing more than distributing food—you’re creating connections, offering hope, and transforming lives. Whether you have a few hours once a month or want to become a regular part of this mission, there’s a place for you here.

Click here to sign up to volunteer and help us continue to feed our neighbors and build a stronger, more compassionate community.


Other Things You May Be Interested In:

Special Session Of Charge Conference - March 16th

Published: February 16, 2025

Sunday, March 16th at 11:15 AM (Following Worship) Berwyn United Methodist Church will hold a special session of Charge Conference on Sunday, March 16th at 11:15 AM, immediately following worship. The purpose of this session is to discuss and decide on the church’s mortgage and funding options for essential building improvements related to our transition to a full-day childcare program. Key Considerations: Our current mortgage rate has increased from 4.14% to 6.73%. Option 1: Refinance the entire mortgage with the United Methodist Loan Board at its current rate of 5.25%, while adding a modest amount to fund necessary building improvements, including: Air conditioning (most pressing need) Bathroom additions (child-sized toilets) Furnishings for childcare spaces Safety and security measures to ensure church ministry can continue while childcare is in session. We have requested three estimates for air conditioning and will explore costs for other improvements. Option 2: Keep the loan as it is and borrow against the $100,000 invested with the Loan Fund, as our endowment is invested with the Mid-Atlantic Foundation and this is a viable alternative. This decision is crucial for the future of our church and the successful launch of Berwyn Early Learning Academy. All members are strongly encouraged to attend, ask questions, and participate in this important conversation. For questions or more information, please contact Pastor Kevin or a member of the Leadership Team.

Recap Of Berwyn Umc’s Charge Conference – March 16, 2025

Published: March 17, 2025

Berwyn UMC’s Charge Conference on March 16, 2025, focused on the transition to Berwyn Early Learning Academy (BELA), facility improvements, and financial planning for the church’s future. Key decisions included refinancing the mortgage to fund air conditioning for BELA, addressing building repairs, and strengthening connections with nursery school families. BELA Director Morgan Otto provided updates on enrollment growth and program development, highlighting the church’s commitment to quality early childhood education. You can find the meeting minutes and view the presentation slides here.
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