A community center and a local United Methodist church collaboration demonstrates love in action to 100 food-insecure families in Perry County, Ohio.

Water’s Edge Community Center and Jacksontown United Methodist Church have created a choice food pantry ministry that serves families four times a week. The team also holds an additional choice pantry on Wednesdays during Kids’ Night Out.

At Kid’s Night Out, children play games, enjoy a meal, and hear a message from Pastor Oscar Bickherdt, of Jacksontown UMC. This evening, the “kids’ access only” choice food pantry is open, stocked with items children and youth love. Water’s Edge pantry coordinator Randy Swithar said, “If it’s sweet, it’s in there.”

Kid’s Night Out started over 10 years ago, offering a safe place for more than 100 children in a nearby mobile home community. Since then, attendance has declined due to the displacement of the mobile home community and other housing for new development. However, the need remains.

Kid’s Night Out is a church for children who don’t attend church on Sundays.

“We want this to be a safe place[where]  kids know they can go,” Swithar said.

In addition to serving the food-insecure, Jacksontown and Water’s Edge serve those escaping from domestic violence. Tala's Closet, named in honor of Tala Smith, a 21-year-old who lost her life to domestic violence, provides clothing and personal items to those leaving violent situations and starting over.

“We are showing love in action,” said Pastor Oscar Bickerdt Jr. “Our light will shine brightly when we do it in love.”

To learn more about Jacksontown UMC and Water’s Edge Ministries, click here.