Center for Community Services Challenges Local Churches to “Host a Food Drive” This Summer

As local congregations begin their summer countdowns, the Center for Community Services (CCS) is issuing a call to action to make this year’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) more impactful than ever. The organization is encouraging churches across the “Golden Strip” to integrate a community food drive into their summer programming to help combat local food insecurity.

The initiative aims to turn a week of fun and learning into a tangible “meaningful week” for families in need throughout the Fountain Inn and Simpsonville areas.

Meeting a Critical Summer Need

While many families look forward to summer break, local food pantries often face their highest demand during these months. With school out of session, children who rely on school-provided meals often face a “hunger gap,” putting additional strain on organizations like CCS.

By hosting a food drive during VBS, local churches can provide a steady stream of non-perishable essentials—such as peanut butter, canned goods, and dry pasta—directly to the center’s distribution lines.

Teaching Service Through Action

For many local VBS programs, the theme of “helping others” is a central message. CCS is offering to partner with youth directors to make that message practical.

“Planning your church’s VBS this summer? Let’s make an impact together!” the Center for Community Services shared in an appeal to community leaders. “As you prepare for a meaningful week, help us help others.”

The program is designed to be low-effort for the churches but high-impact for the community. CCS provides guidance on the most-needed items and can coordinate the collection and transport of donated goods once the VBS week concludes.

How to Get Involved

The Center for Community Services is currently reaching out to ministry leaders, volunteers, and parents to begin scheduling summer drives. Churches of all sizes are invited to participate, with the goal of creating a “ripple effect” of generosity across the region.

Ways to participate:

• Designated Collection Days: Setting specific days during VBS for students to bring in items.

• Friendly Competitions: Encouraging different age groups or “tribes” within the VBS to compete for the most donations.

• Family Involvement: Inviting parents to drop off donations during pick-up or drop-off times.

About the Center for Community Services:

Located in Fountain Inn, the Center for Community Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a “hand up” to neighbors in crisis. Beyond their food pantry, they offer various resources including financial assistance, educational programs, and community support services to ensure no one in the community has to face hardship alone.

Contact Information: Churches interested in partnering for a summer food drive are encouraged to contact the Center for Community Services directly through their official website or social media channels to coordinate their specific VBS dates.