Outreach
Outreach Ministry Opportunities for Service in Christ
The following list describes many of the opportunities for outreach ministry at Highland Park United Methodist Church. We are a church that serves and ministers to the community. “We invite you to find your place in the service ministry and pray for our community served.”
I Care, Inc. Food Pantry
Community Food Pantry: A Collective Effort to Fight Hunger
In collaboration with four local community churches, our food pantry operates with a single purpose: to provide essential sustenance to those facing food insecurity. The generous support of HPUMC (Highland Park United Methodist Church) allows us to allocate nearly all donations directly toward food supplies. Our dedicated volunteers—representing Berryton UMC, Highland Park UMC, Shawnee Heights UMC, and Southern Hills Mennonite Church—work tirelessly to pick up food, stock shelves, and distribute food boxes.
Key Details:
Location: Highland Park United Methodist Church
Operating Hours: 9:00 am to 11:00 am, Monday through Friday
Our Approach: Client Choice Model We believe in empowering our pantry guests. That’s why we follow a Client Choice model. When individuals and families visit our pantry, they can make choices based on their unique needs and preferences. This system takes into account dietary restrictions, personal preferences, and existing food supplies at home. It ensures that everyone receives the support they truly need.
Partnerships and Programs:
Harvesters and DCF: We collaborate with these organizations to distribute food through the TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) to Shawnee County residents.
Emergency Assistance: I Care provides emergency food assistance every 60 days to eligible individuals within our service area (south of 6th street and east of Kansas Ave. to the county lines).
How You Can Help: Anyone who wishes to contribute can get involved with I Care. Simply call the church office at 785-266-6555 and ask to be connected to I Care during our regular operating hours.
Gratitude: We extend heartfelt thanks to all our supporters—whether through donations of bags, egg cartons, hygiene supplies, or financial contributions. Your generosity makes a significant impact in the lives of those we serve.
Meals on Wheels Meal Dining Facility
Where: Highland Park United Methodist Church
Who We Serve:
Our nutrition services are specifically targeted toward individuals aged 60 years and older who find themselves in the greatest social and economic need. We have a special focus on supporting low-income minorities within our community.
The Importance of Nutritious Meals:
Hot, well-balanced meals play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of our community members. Here’s how:
Independence: By providing nourishing meals, we empower our guests to remain independent in their own homes. Good nutrition contributes to overall well-being and helps individuals maintain their daily routines.
Health Management: Our meals are designed to address specific health needs. Whether it’s managing diabetes, heart-related conditions, renal issues, or swallowing complications, we tailor our offerings to support better health outcomes.
Hospitalization Prevention: Proper nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalizations. By ensuring that our guests receive wholesome meals, we contribute to their overall health and well-being.
Safety: We take safety seriously. Our meal delivery service ensures that individuals receive their meals in a secure and timely manner, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.
Interfaith of Topeka
Interfaith of Topeka consists of representatives from variouis churches and faith traditions in Topeka. Its purposes are to educate and promote peaceful understanding among faith communities. Among its members are representative of Christian, Muslim, Bahai, Pagan, Latter Day Saints, Native American, Eckankar (Religion of Light and Sound of God), Atheist, and Judaism faiths and spiritual traditions. Our church maintains a membership in Interfaith.