Community Outreach

The purposes of our Missions or Community Outreach Program at First United Methodist Church is to be aware of and receptive to the needs of our church and the community and to reach out to help meet those needs. The needs range from the need for food, clothing, and help with housing and utility costs to spiritual assistance and child care.

Members of First Church’s Outreach Committee attend meetings of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce and the St. Charles Community Council in order to be aware of the needs and concerns of the community and to report them back to the church. In addition, Community Outreach coordinates several programs.

First United Methodist Church is involved in mission projects throughout the year, helping to spread the message of God’s love and care. These projects include the following:

CHRISTMAS PROJECTS
Each year, First Church participates in programs to provide gifts for the less fortunate. In the past, items of clothing for both adults and children have been collected, along with new toys for children of specific age groups.

FESTIVAL OF SHARING
Each fall, First Church holds a drive to collect items to be included in health kits, personal hygiene kits, sewing kits, layettes and baby kits, prison kits, rural kits, and school kits. Items include such essentials as soap, pencils, diapers, washcloths, and toothbrushes. The items are packaged and are then distributed to low-income homes in Missouri and to refugee camps and mission hospitals throughout the world.

FOOD PANTRY SUNDAY
Members of First Church bring donations of non-perishable food items or cash to designated bins at the church on the second Sunday of each month. The donations are then given to FISH and Metro Ministry, two organizations which assist in meeting the needs of the less fortunate. In recent years, First Church has donated several tons of food annually.

HEALTH CARE SUNDAY
Members of First Church bring donations of first aid and personal hygiene items on the fourth Sunday of each month. The donations are then given to Oasis of Love, an area ministry which assists those in need.

MISSIONARIES
First Church provides financial support to missionaries who spread the news about Jesus Christ in distant lands.