United Methodist Center of Far Rockaway

An outreach program that provides food, clothing, referrals and counseling services for 125 – 150 persons per day from the community.

 Program 2020 – 2021

Our Impact

1
Meals Served
1
Clients Serviced
1
Pantry Bags Distributed

story

The mission was incorporated in 1982 to serve the Far Rockaway community, especially those in need. The Mission has continued to be one of the major feeding programs in Queens.  For thirty years the mission has served people in need by providing hospitality and spiritual, social and physical services which foster self-confidence and pride.

In its third and current location at 1032 Beach 19th Street in the middle of Far Rockaway a welcoming place has been created with a full kitchen, a dining area, an office, and rest rooms.  

This central site was essential during ministry after Hurricane Sandy in 2012.  

The Far Rockaway Mission is truly the focus and passion of the Long Island West District of the Conference.  Many of the churches within the district support the Mission with donations  of funds, food and clothing.  The LIW district; United Methodist Women and Men; the District Superintendent; pastors and laity all respond to the need.  The Mission also receives support from United Way, City Harvest, Temple Sinai, NYC Food Bank and other organizations.

The success of the mission has been it’s flexibility and willingness to change.  It moved, it adapted, it created a new community of faith based on people, not a church building.  In many ways, Jesus did the same thing, feeding the five thousand on a beach. 

The Mission is open to patrons Monday – Friday  Hot meals are served from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 PM.  An evening meal is served from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

The Food Pantry operates two days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 12 Noon to 3:30 PM. Grocery bags with donated food items are distributed during these hours. Emergency food may be obtained at any time with a letter of referral from an agency.