Outreach
On Saturday, April 16, the Outreach Committee and the Christian Education Committee hosted the 4th annual Easter egg hunt.
Outreach at the First Church of Monson is the members' faithful response to God's grace by helping our neighbors in need. We serve by working together with partners, locally and globally, building relationships, and sharing our time, talents, and financial resources.
Outreach promotes four offerings and appeals in the UCC that are targeted for specified needs: One Great Hour of Sharing, Strengthen the Church, Neighbors in Need, and Christmas Fund for Veterans of the Cross.
Outreach also hosts several community events each year such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Mardi Gras dinner, and Halloween pizza party. Proceeds from these events are donated to charitable organizations such as Soldier On and Baystate Children's Hospital.
Loaves and Fishes is a soup kitchen located in Springfield. First Church prepares and serves a meal in Springfield for those in need. We average about 110 meals each month. In addition to preparing casseroles, individuals also donate salad fixings in the summer months and cooked carrots in the winter months.
The Monson Open Pantry distributes food locally and assists more than 75 families here in town. Food may be dropped off on any Sunday and left in the collection baskets in the Narthex. Delivery to the Open Pantry takes place on the third Sunday of every month. In addition, Sponsored Project funds provide items like milk, bread, meat, and cheese.
First Church also supports the Monson Ecumencial Fuel Fund which provides assistance to local families in need with a one-time per year gift of 100 gallons of home heating fuel. This program is administered by the Monson Council on Aging, which provides help in completing and submitting the application for residents of all ages. Receipt of Fuel Assistance will entitle the recipient to utility discounts as well.