Helping Humanity

Helping Humanity By Jeweliana Curtis

When times are tough, it is imperative that people have a safe space to receive assistance, and there are many great organizations that provide that to the local community. From food banks to community closets, these organizations seek to help people through vulnerable, hard times; whether that be an unexpected loss of a loved one, the loss of a job or the loss of independence. No matter the circumstance, local organizations have committed to closing the gap and providing needed support during difficult times. Read on to learn more about two organizations that are committed to helping those in need in our local community, one person at a time.

RENEWED: PARTNERING WITH HOPE

Located behind Red Lobster off of highway 90 in Lake City, Renewed is an organization committed to helping those in need in the community. You may be familiar with the Renewed Thrift Store, but this is just a portion of the operation. Along with other ministries, Renewed operates a food pantry that provides grocery and pantry items to those in need. The food pantry is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and serves both Columbia County residents and the homeless population within the community.

To qualify for this giveaway, Columbia County residents need to bring proof of address, such as a piece of mail, and an ID. Residents receive a large box of food, as well as a bag of frozen meat. The homeless population receive a food kit, hygiene kit, clothing, backpack or bag and a blanket. They also operate a closet as a way to provide needed items for the homeless within the community, such as jackets, shoes and other clothing essentials.

At Renewed, the goal is simple: to share the love of God with others. Jesus said, “When you did these things unto the least of these, you did them unto Me.” At Partners of Hope and Renewed Outreach, they believe every life is precious to God and they exist to bring hope to those in need in our community. If you are interested in supporting Renewed, or if you are interested in the services they provide, visit their location during the specified food pantry hours or call 386-438-5597 for more information. Be sure to follow along on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on community events and outreaches.

Renewed 225 NW Real Terrace, Lake City, FL 32055 386-438-5597 Facebook: @renewed.thrift.lc Instagram: @renewed.thrift

THE WORSHIP ROOM: IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS

At The Worship Room, the staff and volunteers are passionate about spreading love to the community by being the hands and feet of Jesus. The organization regularly hosts clothing drives, food giveaways and community meals. Lead Pastor Matt Ganskop shares that The Worship Room is in the ministry of restoration and leading people back to a relationship with Jesus.

“People need to know that there are those who care about them and that God loves them,” Pastor Matt shares. We have been blessed to be a blessing to others.”

The Worship Room gives back to the community through monthly food giveaways, typically on the second Saturday of each month. They also offer a community meal, which is open to all, on the first Tuesday of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. On Mondays and Wednesdays, you can find The Worship Room team hosting clothing drives from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are also open worship nights every Friday beginning at 9 p.m.

Additionally, The Worship Room also meets many community needs on a case-by-case basis. Baptisms, prayer, emergency groceries and more are provided as requested. The Worship Room proudly partners with local church groups and organizations to meet these needs.

For more information about The Worship Room, and to stay up-to-date on future community events and giveaways, follow along on Facebook at @theWorshipRoomLC.

The Worship Room 162 NW Ridgewood Ave., Lake City, FL 32055 386-243-0279 Facebook: @theWorshipRoomLC

THE WORSHIP ROOM’S SCRIPTURE:

Jesus loves Lake City! 1 John Chapter 3:17-18: “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” ■

As a new year approaches, Family Magazine encourages our readers to get involved with a cause you are passionate about and give back in 2022. If you have extra time, consider volunteering at a local non-profit. Commit to being a monthly donor at your favorite organization. Declutter and donate excess items to your local thrift store, or purchase items for those in need. The gesture may seem small to you, but the impact in the community is great.