Our food solidarity work began during the last pandemic lockdown in April 2020. In a moment of great need, the congregation felt compelled to serve its neighbours. We first self-funded the local operations, relying on the generosity of the congregation's families. In March 2021, we established a collaboration with a local store through the Associazione Missione Nazarena Italiana - AMNI, our national NGO.
During the first six months of operation, we collected and delivered around 4000 pounds of basic supplies, assisting approximately 69 persons, both adults and children, on a monthly basis! The Nazarene Global Compassionate Ministries provided us an offer to set up the food warehouse in our church building, which enabled us to purchase stainless steel (washable) shelves and a high capacity refrigerator.
Because of the growing number of attendees, in January 2022 we reached an arrangement with the 'Banco Alimentare', a national food bank service, allowing us to serve a bigger number of people. The service, which was initially every two weeks, is now weekly and combines long-expiry food with fresh food (fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, etc.). The project currently serves around 100 persons, with an average volume of nearly 3900 pounds of supplies per month.
Transport, notably of fresh food collected and distributed weekly, has been done so far with volunteer vehicles, but with the growth in activities, a proper vehicle is required. Two brothers involved in the project are professional drivers, and will be in charge of managing the vehicle's operations. Due to national legislation, the local pastor must be listed as an authorized representative in the insurance contract, too, as a potential driver.
Partner together with this project and help us purchase a used vehicle in good condition, to continue sharing food and the love of Jesus with those in need in our community! The local church will cover maintenance costs, as well as administration and insurance fees.
In the US:
Make checks payable to General Treasurer and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene, Global Ministry Center
Attn: Donor Services
17001 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, KS 66220-7900
In Canada:
Make Checks payable Church of the Nazarene Canada and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
3657 Ponytrail Drive
Mississauga, Ontario L4X 1W5.