Local Mission Opportunities

  C.H.O.P.I.N. Hall Volunteers

C.H.O.P.I.N. Hall (Christians Helping Other People In Need) is a food and clothing distribution Center opened in 1984. First Presbyterian and seven other churches were originally the sponsors.  Now, 27 churches sponsor this project.  No federal or United Way funds are received; therefore, the center operates solely through donations from churches, other civic organizations, and private individuals.

Since the agency is completely staffed by volunteers, eight people are needed for each 2 hour shift on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. to assist those who need temporary help.  In addition, crews are needed to sort clothing on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and to stock the pantry and prepare items for distribution.

Some volunteers help each week and some only once a month.  A schedule can be arranged to fit any person's needs.  An average of 1000 people are helped each month with food, clothing, small appliances and kitchen items and also bedding and other household items when these are available.

  Hancock Christian Clearing House

First Presbyterian Church took the lead in the organization of HCCH, a cooperative effort currently of 42 churches in Hancock County.  HCCH addresses particularly the needs of those who might not qualify for assistance from other charitable and social organizations.

The office, located in the Family Center, is staffed by volunteers, who work with the clients determining the needs and assistance available. Training is offered for anyone interested in volunteering for the Hancock Christian Clearing House.

Funding comes from the contributions of member churches and individuals.   Approximately $13,000 is disbursed monthly to those needing assistance with housing, utilities, medical needs, food, transportation, and other needs.

  Health Fair

Sponsored by the Synod of the Covenant and Maumee Valley Presbytery, opportunities for half-day involvement in health fairs are available.  Volunteers travel to a nearby site and staff stations for height/weight, dental, blood pressure, and cholesterol screening, among others.

  Hope House

Findlay Hope House for the Homeless, a residence for area homeless women and children, utilizes volunteers in two areas: child care--for one hour periods during meetings, and as staff replacement on the weekends. Staff replacement volunteers serve one 3-hour shift between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. to answer telephones and staff the office.

  Habitat For Humanity

Each summer, volunteers work with the local Habitat for Humanity chapter to help build homes for low-income families.  Volunteers assist Habitat personnel in all aspects of home construction.

  Rehab House

Community Action Commission offers local residents the opportunity to assist in the rehabilitation of vacant, old homes to make them habitable and available for purchase by low-income area residents.  Volunteers assist CAC personnel in all aspects of home renovation and are welcome to work on an as-available basis by contacting CAC.

  Salvation Army Soup Kitchen

Twice a year, the Presbyterian Women sponsor a Soup Kitchen for area needy persons through the Salvation Army.  Volunteers are needed to provide food (either purchased items or entrees prepared from a specific recipe). Additional volunteers are needed to serve the noon meal at the Salvation Army building.