Our Beginnings
Although community outreach in De Pere had been in action long before our organization was formed, in 1990 eight churches got together to create a combined mission to help community members in need. Eight local founding churches, First Congregational UCC, First United Presbyterian, Hope Lutheran, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic, St. Anne's Episcopal, St. Francis Xavier Catholic, St. Mary Catholic and St. John Lutheran, each donated $100 to create our mission's seed money. From that initial seed money received, and now through monetary donations and sales at the Thrift Store, we have since been able to be self-sustaining. De Pere Christian Outreach branched into a Thrift Store in West De Pere and a Food Pantry in East De Pere.
Our Facilities
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DPCO Food Pantry
The Food Pantry had long since operated within St. Anne's Episcopal Church long before the vision of a permanent structure was completed. In 2012, a new structure was built on the grounds of St. Anne's. To accommodate the ever growing needs of our community, in 2016 the refrigeration capability was upgraded. In 2017, to better meet the needs of servicing our clients, the Food Pantry began the addition of an enclosure to accommodate a new, much larger freezer/cooler, space for fresh produce and a private consultation area. DPCO Thrift Store The Thrift Store itself was first opened in the old Ford Bakery. Ever expanding, it was then moved to the former St. Francis parsonage house. From there, the Thrift Store once again moved to a larger and more convenient one-level location in West De Pere. As our growth continued, in 2015 the Thrift Store expanded its current facility allowing for better equipped store space with wider aisles, brighter lighting and expanded volunteer work areas. A community in need: The need for our services have been continually growing. With God's help we continue to strive to serve those in need and our community. If you would like to be a part of this wonderful opportunity God has provided us through either a monetary donation or volunteering your time at either the Food Pantry or the Thrift Store, please click on either our "Donate" or "Contact Us" tabs! |
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