The OUTREACH MINISTRY is made possible through the generosity of time and talent of the members of St. Francis.
Christmas Giving Tree and Food "Baskets": About 12 volunteers make the gift tags for the giving tree and inventory the gifts. Other volunteers sort and pack Christmas food baskets and add the gifts for pickup by families who signed up at Thanksgiving. Many parishioners participate by buying gifts. Students at Corpus Christi and parishioners bring in food donations. Volunteers do other food shopping as needed.
Feeding America West Michigan: There's a team of 6 individuals and couples who volunteer transporting this food from the Macatawa Resource Center (drop off location) on 136th to St. Vincent Center at 13th and Maple. With this many volunteers they're responsible for two turns a year usually.
Jail/Prison Ministry: This is a ministry to some of the most marginalized people in our society. Individuals are trained through the Diocesan Office for ministry at the local juvenile detention center or prisons in the diocese. Contact the Diocese at 616-475-1255 for more information. Para mas informacion, llame la diocesis al 616-475-1255.
Kids Food Basket:This is a ministry that can happen at Kids Food Basket in rented space at Peace Lutheran Church, or in our parish kitchen with these pictured below, or in your home. There's more info on the Kids Food Basket tab. This is also a ministry in which almost anyone can participate.
Red Cross Blood Drive: Between 6 & 8 volunteers are needed in the spring
Refugee Cosponsorship: This is a new ministry in partnership with Bethany Christian Services. Years ago the parish sponsored refugees from Vietnam and from Bosnia. The Rodriguez-Matos family (refugees from Cuba) have been here now for several years. Our official mentoring relationship has now evolved into a relationship of friendship.
Shopping for St. Vincent Center: About 16 people (on a rotational basis) assist with the weekly restocking of the Center
St. Vincent de Paul Center: Staffed by regular volunteers and others(e.g. Hope College Phelps Scholars and Confirmation candidates needing service hours)
Thanksgiving Food ‘Baskets’: Weeks of preparation by approximately 50 volunteers who shop for the food that's needed
Voter Registration:
Year Round Holiday Preparation: Between 4 & 6 folks are needed