The city of Massillon is a small town with a big reputation. Home of the Massillon Tigers, the city has received national recognition for its high school football team for years. But this city has much more to be proud of, inclduing the way it takes care of its residents who struggle with hunger. 

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, a hunger-relief program within the Foodbank’s network, has been serving the community since the ‘70s. Funded by church parishioners and its St. Vincent de Paul Society, the food program offers a hot lunch, groceries and clothing to community members in need.

Serving 200 meals and packing 100 bags of groceries on average each week, the program is managed by three volunteers and run by 30 dedicated church members and the court’s community service program. One of those parishioners is Judge Eddie Elum of the Massillon Municipal Court, a 35-year volunteer at the weekly program.

“The need is greater today than it was 35 years ago when we started this program. Hunger and food insecurity are real and many people don’t realize that,” said Judge Elum.

As COVID-19 stripped many people of their savings and livelihoods, St. Joseph’s has seen an increase in need from people they’ve never served before.

“We’ve had a lot of new people due to the circumstances who don’t have any resources right now. We’re just glad we’re able to help as much as we can,” said Stephanie Ilg, one of the three volunteers who manages the program.

The program primarily serves senior citizens, veterans and people with mental health and addiction issues. But now, Stephanie and her volunteers are providing hope to many more, including entire families who have moved in together and grandparents taking care of grandchildren.

“It’s more than just food; it’s part of creating a sense of community. Our clients know us, and they like to come talk to us each week.”

Because of the coronavirus, the food program has shifted to a takeout-style hot meal, limiting the amount of time people get to spend with one another. The feeling of welcome and togetherness isn’t completely lost as community members stand in line, though most will be happy when they can get back to business as usual.

We’re so grateful for the food program at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Massillon and for their dedication to local hungerrelief efforts. Because of your support, we can continue to fight hunger together.

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