More than fifty years ago, the Jonnycake Center for Hope was founded in Peace Dale with the modest goal to establish a food pantry “for neighbors by neighbors.” Over the past decade, it has so diversified its services and programs that it is now recognized as an indispensable resource for families in need throughout South County. Its community resources now include:
- A vibrant, market-style food pantry – Jonnycake Market – that provides fresh produce, frozen proteins, fresh dairy, school vacation meals, and deliveries to homebound households.
- Secure housing for ten struggling families – including 26 children – to provide a permanent home for successful futures.
- Financial assistance totaling more than $100,000 aimed at preventing eviction, securing new homes, ensuring the lights and heat stay on, and keeping the family car on the road.
- A robust offering of out-of-school time programs for students of all ages, including a unique “Language and Literacy Summer Academy” for students with dyslexia.
- A Youth Center for middle- and high-school students, featuring mentoring, enrichment opportunities, and academic support.
Jonnycake Center CEO, Kate Brewster, points out that these enhanced service offerings would not be possible without the ongoing support of its community partners. “Christ the King parish is among our most impactful and reliable partners dating back several decades.”
Earlier this spring, Kate referenced our parish’s generosity in describing the impact of our second annual Easter Food Basket drive, which supported more than one hundred Jonnycake member households. When asked to elaborate further on her remark that “Christ the King always goes big,” Kate explained that “it is quite evident that your parishioners put their heart and soul into carrying out every aspect of their ministry work. They are very invested in helping those who are struggling.”
Our “food-insecure” ministries currently provide both the “Thanksgiving Food Basket” and “Easter Food Basket” drives, which have become annual events. This past year, these two food drives combined generated 253 meals and hundreds of gift cards with the support of 355 parishioner volunteers. Jonnycake staff identify and secure commitments among their member families in advance of a well-organized distribution “drop-off” day by parish volunteer drivers throughout South County.
The Parish Social Action ministry continues to support those young families who receive Jonnycake services, organizing annual food drives and conducting an annual “Mother’s Day Drive.” This drive collects and distributes diapers, formula, baby clothes, and feminine products for needy mothers and children, including those who have experienced domestic violence.
Kate also highlighted the $10k donation in 2020 by our parish in support of the Center’s capital campaign to purchase and renovate the former Peace Dale Grammar School for use as its food pantry, administrative offices, and community space. “We could not have been more grateful to have a local parish extend such generosity to ensure we have a right-sized, appealing space to carry out our work.” She confirmed that capital campaign donations among faith-based organizations can be rare.
“Christ the King parish always shows up for its neighbors in need. Members of the Church serve through active and effective ministries, donating their time and funds quietly and directly to the Center,” Kate emphasized. “We simply couldn’t do this work without you all.”