Lakewood Manor in Richmond, a facility of Virginia Baptist Homes, helped make a difference in the Richmond community by hosting a food and clothes drive during Community Service Week on Oct. 29- Nov. 2.
All proceeds will benefit the food pantry and clothes closet operated by community missions at First Baptist Church of Richmond. The food panty and clothes closets serves between 500–600 people per month.
“Lakewood wanted to provide the opportunity for their staff and residents to be able to support their own community and it is only fitting that during Community Service Week we reach out to a local organization,” said Megan Hackett, staff development coordinator for Lakewood Manor.
Many of Lakewood's residents and staff are members of First Baptist Church. The church also facilitates a weekly Bible study and provides transportation for a number of Lakewood residents to Sunday services.
The food pantry and clothes closet are open to Richmond city residents. “I could not think of a better organization to benefit from the Community Service Drive. How wonderful is it for one Baptist ministry to reach out and help another Baptist ministry. We definitely know that the items are going to a good cause,” said Holly Raidabaugh, director of marketing for Lakewood Manor.
Many of those who benefit from this ministry have insufficient income due to homelessness, lack of employment, illness, injuries or any number of temporary situations. Some have long-term needs, and the church encourages them to seek more permanent help through the Department of Social Services or similar programs.
The person or family will receive approximately a three day supply of food and may also receive some household supplies. First Baptist Church relies heavily on donations since the food they purchase must be bought within a set budget.
The clothes closet is open three days a week and any person needing clothing may visit. Items are all donated, mostly by church members and friends.
Like most ministries, the food pantry and the clothes closet could not serve this vast number of Richmonders without the help of individuals and other organizations.