Linda Murphy
"Helping Port Residents in Need "- Cooperative Community Ministry
Faith-based communities are well known for compassionately caring for their neighbors. Here in Port we have meaningful interfaith dialog with neighbors through the Clergy Association and cooperative efforts to serve those in need. Our congregation's “Helping People in Need” is part of a Cooperative Community Ministry in conjunction with the parishes of St. Peter of Alcantara, Our Lady of Fatima and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Together we sponsor two Food, Paper & Personal Care Pantries and a Layette Ministry to provide Port individuals and families with essentials for their daily lives.
As an economically diverse community, some residents are not aware of the challenges local residents face. Sadly, there are many Port families and individuals who, at times, must choose between paying for rent, utilities, and medicine versus food.
Anyone needing food can call Fatima’s outreach director, Sr. Kathy Somerville, O.P., at 883-3903 or St. Peter’s director, Lourdes O. Tagliatela, at 883-0365.
The Lutheran Church of Our Savior sponsors a “Paper & Personal Care Pantry” to supplement these other ministries. Low-income seniors, persons enrolled in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and others are able to obtain items such as paper towels, toilet tissue, bar soap, laundry detergent, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. More information can be obtained by calling the church office, 767-0603 or responding to the "Helping Port Residents in Need" e-mail.
