Churches in Montgomery County Provide Food While Shielding Immigrants from ICE Raids

Rev. Diana Wingeier-Rayo hands out numbered cards to people arriving for a weekly food distribution event at Hughes United Methodist Church in Wheaton. Jose Angel Rodriguez clings to his stepmother as they navigate the food pantry, fearing for her safety. He has been haunted by news of families being separated and deported, including reports of ICE detentions at local locations. Rodriguez, preparing to join the U.S. Marine Corps, feels the weight of responsibility to protect his mother, who fled Honduras with him over a decade ago.

The food pantry in Wheaton is one of several in Montgomery County that provide meals regardless of citizenship status. Immigrants make up about a third of the county’s residents, according to data from the Vera Institute. Volunteers and local leaders aim to create a safe space where people can access food without fear of immigration enforcement. This effort comes amid a surge in ICE arrests in Maryland, which have more than doubled since President Donald Trump returned to office. Many detained individuals do not have criminal records, and local pantry lines have decreased despite rising food insecurity.

Aid groups have expressed concern over the impact of immigration enforcement on vulnerable communities. Reports of raids at worksites and restaurants have led some individuals to avoid essential services. The food pantry in Wheaton, like others in the area, continues to serve as a lifeline for those in need. The presence of ICE officers has created a climate of fear, prompting some to avoid public spaces where they might be targeted.

On July 30, Rodriguez was among hundreds at the Hughes United Methodist Church’s food pantry. The event proceeded without incident, with lines for fresh produce and other items forming in an orderly manner. The pantry’s staff and volunteers work diligently to ensure that no one is turned away, regardless of their immigration status. This commitment to service reflects a broader effort to uphold the dignity and safety of all community members.

The intersection of mercy and accountability is evident in the work of these ministries. They provide practical support while advocating for policies that protect the vulnerable. The Bible calls for justice, mercy, and humble service, themes that resonate in the efforts of those who serve in these food pantries. By offering food and shelter, they embody the call to care for neighbors in need, even in the face of external threats.

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