Mission and Outreach

John Wesley, founder of Methodism, said, “The world is our parish.” First United Methodist Church takes this seriously. Many years ago the church made a conscious decision to stay downtown to remain a part of the community and be at the center of needs. FUMC stays connected with many helping organizations and provides financial assistance, time, talents, and support. Here are just a few…

Crisis Assistance Ministry-- Crisis Assistance Ministry is an agency in Gaston County that provides food and financial assistance to family in times of need. Our church is responsible for stocking the food pantry for the month of March each year. The food is collected in February. This is a once a year project though we do respond to special appeals from them. Financial support is provided to the Crisis Assistance Ministry.

Meals on Wheels -- Meals on Wheels is an ongoing project. Every weekday there is a route for which First United Methodist Church is responsible. Lunch is delivered Monday through Friday to specific people. There is a list of volunteers who run the route usually once a month. We provide financial support to this agency every month

Camp Sunshine -- Camp Sunshine is a once a year event. It is a one-week day camp for economically disadvantaged youth. The camp is run by volunteers and serves approximately 90 children ages six to ten at Camp Rotary. The children are provided a snack breakfast, lunch, crafts, special activities, swimming, songs and story telling. FUMC provides for all the expense of running this camp.

The Shelter -- The Shelter provides a safe, secure place for women and children in time of need. We contribute money and we respond to special appeals.

Cornerstone Christian Ministry -- Cornerstone Christian Ministry is a short term home for men with drug and alcohol problems. They recycle cans, glass and papers to raise money for their program. Several members on their Board of Directors are members of our church. In addition to monthly financial support, we respond to special appeals.

Habitat for Humanity -- Habitat for Humanity builds houses with volunteer labor for needy families. Part of our role is to recruit volunteers. We provide financial support for this program monthly.

AIDS Council -- A ministry designed for education about AIDS and to provide opportunities to minister and care for individuals with the illness.

UMAR – The United Methodist Agency for the Retarded provides homes and dignity to those with special needs. We support a home in Gastonia.

Salvation Army – We provide financial assistance as well as breakfast each Tuesday morning for the residents of Salvation Army. We also provide dinner on occasions.

House of Mercy – This is a home for those who are living with AIDS. House of Mercy provides residents with a safe home, dignity, and compassion. We support with our money and our presence.

Potter’s House – With the help of the Potter’s House women who are entering a life free of drugs and alcohol have a place to go. We support Potter’s House with our prayers, presence, gifts and service.

With Friends – When teenagers find themselves without a home With Friends is there to provide them shelter, love and support. We provide With Friends financial support, board support and assistance when needed.

West Gastonia Boys and Girls Club – We partner with the West Gastonia Boys and Girls Club to provide meals on a weekly basis, crafts, and all around support.

Partnership with Schools – Committed to education, FUMC, provides support to York Chester Middle School, Pleasant Ridge Elementary and Hunter Huss High School. School supplies, Thanksgiving Dinner, clothing and other needs are shared as well as tutoring, proctoring, and teacher support.

FUMC is also actively engaged in mission throughout the world. In connection with the General Board of Global Ministry www.gbgm-umc.org we share our gifts and talents with those in need globally.

In June 2004 a team from FUMC went to Nicaragua to be in relationship and provide medical assistance, help with schools and constructing.