Trinity Presbyterian Church Provides Food Distribution Support Amid Local Challenges

Trinity Presbyterian Church in Topeka, Kansas, continues to provide essential food support to local residents amid ongoing challenges faced by other food distribution efforts. Following the closure of Town and Country’s food distribution line, Trinity has maintained its commitment to serving the community through monthly drive-up and walk-up food giveaways.

As early as 7 a.m., cars begin lining up outside the church, with distribution starting at noon on the second Monday of each month. The event serves approximately 1,000 to 1,300 people per month, offering groceries to those in need and helping alleviate financial strain on their budgets.

Recipients of the food distribution share their experiences, emphasizing the importance of the aid. Doris Massey-Phelps, a regular participant, noted the necessity of arriving early to ensure they receive assistance. “Sometimes there’s so many people that they all don’t get anything,” she said. “So, the earlier the better I guess.”

Joan Gordon, another recipient, described the support as vital, especially for retirees who face financial challenges. “I’m retired and I struggle like everybody,” she said. “I need assistance in between pay days.”

Jim Cummings, who has participated in the distribution for a long time, emphasized that seeking help with groceries is not a source of shame. “I don’t think it’s embarrassing. It’s here, we get here, it’s food,” he said. “I’ve been doing this like I said for a long time. It’s just wonderful.”

Volunteers at Trinity Presbyterian aim to create a welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of their circumstances. Robert Siglinger, the church’s Head of Mission, highlighted the importance of treating everyone with dignity. “There is no reason to be embarrassed, we are happy to do this. We greet people with smiles,” he said. “We realize that everybody has a different story as why they are needing some extra help for their food. It could be just a one-month thing, it could be a monthly thing.”

Despite the challenges faced by food distribution efforts, the Topeka community continues to show support. Joan Gordon praised the community’s response, stating, “It’s great. Topeka really shows up. They do a good job.”

Trinity Presbyterian’s food distribution, provided by Harvesters, remains a critical resource for those in need, reflecting the church’s commitment to serving others with compassion and care.

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