Transforming Lives, Nourishing the Community: One Church Street's Ambitious Expansion

For over three decades, Saint John's Episcopal Church's One Church Street resource center has been a beacon of hope in the Johnstown community, providing a wide range of services to those in need. Now, with their planned expansion of the food pantry into a new building, the center is poised to take its mission of "nourishing our neighbors in mind, body, and spirit" to new heights.

Empowering the Community, One Meal at a Time

Addressing the Prevalence of Hunger

One Church Street's expansion is a direct response to the alarming prevalence of food insecurity in the region. According to Rev. Laurie Garramone, the center's minister and director, "One in four families in Fulton County alone report experiencing food insecurity. That number is shocking, and hunger is rarely the only problem people are facing." The center recognizes that addressing hunger is a multifaceted challenge, often intertwined with issues such as employment, transportation, and overall well-being.

Expanding Outreach and Services

The planned expansion into a former YMCA building will allow One Church Street to significantly increase its capacity to serve the community. The new facility will house an expanded food pantry, the NOAH (Needy or Alone and Hungry) program for Sunday meals, kitchens, and even a community gymnasium. This expansion will enable the center to reach more individuals and families in need, providing them with not only food but also a range of wraparound services.

Fostering Dignity and Respect

At the heart of One Church Street's mission is a deep commitment to treating each individual with dignity and respect. As Food Pantry Director Mary Gilmour explains, "We don't simply give people food when they need it- we check in, actually get to know people and treat them with respect." This holistic approach ensures that the center's services go beyond mere sustenance, addressing the emotional and social needs of those they serve.

Collaboration and Community Partnerships

One Church Street's expansion is made possible through the support of the local community, including grants and donations. The center also works closely with other agencies to provide a comprehensive range of services, from legal aid to resources for the aging. By fostering these partnerships, One Church Street aims to create a seamless network of support, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.

Raising Awareness and Fostering Change

In addition to its direct service provision, One Church Street is dedicated to raising awareness about the systemic issues that contribute to food insecurity. The center's upcoming "Nourish to Flourish" dinner event will serve as a platform to educate the community and spark important conversations about nutrition, food access, and the broader societal challenges that lead to hunger.

A Vision for the Future

As One Church Street embarks on this transformative expansion, the center's leaders are driven by a clear vision for the future. "We want our services to feel like a normal part of life for everyone," says Garramone. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, the center aims to destigmatize the experience of seeking assistance and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.With the completion of the new facility, One Church Street is poised to become an even more vital resource for the Johnstown community, nourishing both bodies and spirits, and paving the way for a more equitable and resilient future.