He that hath two coats, let him impart to he that hath none. ~Luke 3:11

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 We are very excited to welcome Great Lakes Church as our newest member to Lorain Cooperative Ministry. 

 

Great Lakes is a young church in western Lorain led by Pastor Cody Rhynard, and comprised of many dedicated parishioners with a strong desire to serve their community.  One of their brightest service programs is the bimonthly Clothing Pantry program, which takes place every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. 

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The undertaking began with a resolve “to create a safe, loving place where people can come to get clothes when they are in need.” Even with limited space, the mission quickly grew into a full pantry that now provides weather-appropriate clothes for all ages. 

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Today, this wonderful program would not be possible without the dedicated service of volunteers like Linda Bodnar and Betty and Mike McCartney, who organize donated clothes into an easy, comfortable “shopping” experience for their guests.  In fact, Betty often plays the role of “Gramma” to many of the guests, holding babies while Mom shops. 

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Now, here’s how it all comes together… During the time Great Lake Church joined the Cooperative Ministry, St. John’s ECC was sadly in the process of officially closing their clothing pantry doors.  What a blessing it was to be able to provide the professional clothing racks from their pantry days to this growing Great Lakes ministry that was much in need of ways to best organize their space.  This is yet another example of how working together and sharing resources, we are best able to serve our community. 

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“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. '” ~Jeremiah 29:11.