For more than 120 years, Elders Chapel United Methodist Church has stood at the heart of a small but rapidly growing community about 20 miles south of Nashville, Tennessee. What began as a historically African American congregation has grown into a vibrant multicultural church that reflects the changing neighborhood around it.
In the heart of rural Tennessee, the small congregation of Centertown United Methodist Church has long been a beacon of hope for its community. With only 70 to 80 people attending Sunday services, many might underestimate the reach of this church—but the impact of its food ministry is anything but small.
In a town of only a few hundred residents, Kirksey United Methodist Church demonstrates that impact is not measured by size. Through steady commitment and careful stewardship, this small congregation strengthens food security—one breakfast, one basket, and one neighbor at a time.
An article by Executive Director John Rivas on how even amid profound loss, hope can endure for older adults.
Grant funding from ENCORE Ministry Foundation helped First UMC Woodbury install a new roof thus enabling the church to offer an expanded food distribution ministry and other ministry and followship opportunities.
Calvert City (Kentucky) United Methodist Church is making a powerful impact in the fight against food insecurity, thanks to a grant from the Kent and Ellen McNish Grant for Older Adult Food Security. The grant, awarded in July 2025, has enabled the church’s food pantry ministry to expand its services and provide critical support to seniors and families in the local community.
Grace Depot Church in Clarksville, Tennessee, is making a significant impact in the lives of older adults in the community, thanks to a $5,000 Older Adult Community Service Grant awarded by the ENCORE Ministry Foundation. The grant has enabled the church’s Elders Network to provide essential services and Christ-centered care to seniors facing isolation, medical challenges, and emotional strain.
Centertown (Tennessee) United Methodist Church received grant funding from the ENCORE Ministry Foundation to help purchase a refurbished walk-in freezer
Volunteers gathered for a quick photo before getting busy handing out bags of food last Thursday morning. Erik Hernandez/Macon County
Over the last several years, ENCORE Ministry Foundation has provided grants to Centertown United Methodist Church in McMinnville, Tennessee, to help with their food ministry.
Empowering Churches.
Honoring Senior Adults.
Strengthening Communities.
