Lake Ozark Christian Church is pleased to announce that they have created a new Community Ministry--Shelter from a Storm. The impetus came from a homeless man who entered the church while a Bible Study group was meeting and asked if he could sit for a few moments to get out of the cold. His request touched many members who witnessed those few moments, and they began to investigate the needs in their local community for emergency food and shelter.

On Sunday, June 6, the Pantry of Blessings, opened with a blessing and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Pantry of Blessings will provide non-perishable food and hygiene items on an emergency basis, 24 hours a day. The pantry is located on the west side of the church at 1560 Bagnell Dam Blvd. In addition to church members, local businesses (Dierbergs, HyVee, Smart Postal Center, Target, UPS Store, Woods) and Hope House of Miller County are providing pantry items and printing services.

Meanwhile the congregation is working to address the needs of the homeless and those with emergency need for shelter. In one week they were able to provide shelter for one person in a local hotel and for another person they were able to provide a shower and breakfast in the church building so that he could be better prepared for a job interview.

Thank you to Lake Ozark Christian Church’s Jane Daniels for this story and photos.