OUR community engagement MINISTRIES

Nourishing Bethesda

In the heart of Bethesda, a movement has grown from a seed of compassion into a symbol community strength and Christ's compassion. Nourishing Bethesda, sparked by the urgent needs of the pandemic, has blossomed into an unstoppable force, feeding more than 1,000 families a week.

the mission

Nourishing Bethesda’s mission is to fight food insecurity by providing nutritious food and community support to our neighbors in need, as well as offering and linking our clients to wraparound resources that will enable them to build healthier and more stable lives.

The Fusion of Faith, Food, and Fellowship

What began as a rallying cry in the depths of a global crisis has transformed into a vibrant testament to the power of collective action. Nourishing Bethesda stands today as a dynamic alliance between St. John's, the spirited Bethesda community, and the county's resources—united in their mission to combat food insecurity and weave a tapestry of support and opportunity.

From Crisis to Community Cornerstone

Imagine, the summer of 202 – a time shrouded in uncertainty. It was then that the visionaries of St. John's Norwood and the Montgomery County Council saw beyond the pandemic's shadow, envisioning a community fortified against hunger and hardship. Together, they crafted a blueprint for resilience, giving rise to Nourishing Bethesda.

A Weekly Ritual of Renewal and Relief

Every Friday afternoon, coalition members distribute healthy produce and shelf-stable groceries to nearly 330 households at the B-CC Rescue Squad. Fifty volunteers from the community pack, transport, and distribute food packages every week.

Expanding Horizons of Help

Beyond the weekly distributions, Nourishing Bethesda's heart beats with the rhythm of continuous outreach. From holiday cheer spread through toys and meals to exploratory initiatives aimed at reaching even more neighbors in need, the coalition's mission is ever-evolving.

Supported by a blend of county grants, generous donations, and foundational support, Nourishing Bethesda is a testament to what can be achieved when community, compassion, and commitment converge.