St. Paul Resource Center
Serving the Highlands and beyond
St. Paul’s Resource Center began as an on-site outreach, inviting the unhoused or in-need population into our church building for a hot meal, showers, clothing, toiletries, shelf-stable food, and companionship. It was a thriving ministry, serving dozens of guests every week … until the pandemic hit. When COVID-19 arrived on the scene, the St. Paul Resource Center was forced to cease operation, at least in its previous form.
Not to be defeated, St. Paul began sharing its resources with other ministries in the Highlands and beyond, while continuing to fulfill basic needs for those who stopped by the church requesting assistance. A year or so into the pandemic, when vaccines became available and things seemed to start opening up a bit, the Beyond the Walls team began discussing ways in which the St. Paul congregation could venture out into the community to do some hands-on outreach. And the idea of the Mobile Resource Center was born.
Having previously supported the Fourth Ave UMC Open Door Community Ministry, providing donations and volunteers for their five-day-a week food program, we reached out to propose our Mobile Resource Center idea, and they welcomed us with open arms.
Now, every second Saturday of the month, we take the St. Paul Mobile Resource Center on the road to set up shop and serve guests at Fourth Ave UMC. For several months, we set up the Mobile Resource Center on the sidewalk in front of the church, but we have now moved indoors, and it just keeps getting better. Each month, we serve an average of 65-90 people.
Here’s How You Can Help!
Volunteer!
We need about 14-16 volunteers each month to help at the Mobile Resource Center. Volunteers help load and unload the bus, set up the Resource Center, and assist guests in finding what they need.
To volunteer, sign up at here.
Donate!
We need a regular supply of NEW underwear, socks, toiletries, and other items to support both Resource Centers. To simplify your donations, use our Amazon or Dollar Days wish lists:
Visit our Amazon Wish List here.
Visit our Dollar Days Wish List here.
Or make a financial contribution by mailing a check to the church (designate Resource Center) or donating online at our secure Giving page (choose Other and type Resource Center in the notes section)