On the last Saturday of every month, it isn’t easy to find a parking spot in the lot of the First United Methodist Church of New Milford.  The church is bustling with its “Feed My Sheep” ministry, helping others in need of food and clothing or just a listening ear.

When the first free food event was held at the church about two years ago, volunteers filled bags for about two dozen families.  Now the ministry serves hundreds. 

Once a month, families receive canned goods, juices, pasta or even meats.  The monthly offerings change, depending on what has been purchased by First UMC “Feed My Sheep” organizers and food donations mainly through the Weinburg Foundation.  In addition to providing groceries, lunch is served and free clothing is available.  Those in need can find anything from jeans to dressy items.  The upstairs of the church looks like a retail store with racks of clothes from baby sizes to adult.  At the end of the day, no one goes away empty handed.

Pictured (l-r) are Volunteers: back row -  Jo Fisher, Phyllis Edwards; middle row - Helene Spoor, Linda Monteforte; front row - Kathy Goff.

While the ministry started staffed only with church members, it has grown to an ecumenical event.  Volunteers from other churches have also shared their time.

As families continue to struggle in Susquehanna County, “Feed My Sheep” is growing to keep pace.  Shelves at the church are packed, and a fundraising campaign is underway to purchase a storage shed.  The ministry remains true to its mission:  meeting the physical and spiritual needs of families in Susquehanna County.

Anyone wishing more information about this ministry should contact First United Methodist Church of New Milford at (570) 465-3500.  Monetary donations may also be sent to First UMC, 69 Pratt Street, New Milford 18834.  Please designate “Feed My Sheep” on the donation.