Front Step is a Nazarene compassionate ministry center serving their urban community in North Philadelphia, PA. From summer and after-school programs for children and youth, English and job skill classes, to work with people in recovery, Front Step seeks to be a place of hope and help for neighbors looking to make their communities healthy and safe.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Front Step has recognized food security as a deep need and has responded by providing groceries and grocery gift cards to local families. Beyond food, they are providing household items like toilet paper, soap, and sanitizer. They also tailor the resources to each specific family and their needs; one family they care for recently welcomed home a new baby, and the ministry gave the family a gift card to purchase infant supplies.

Additionally, Front Step has gathered thousands of pounds of other groceries that are then distributed by a local Nazarene food bank and six other organizations in North Philadelphia. 

While children and youth cannot currently attend after-school programming, a ministry at Front Step, the staff are regularly contacting each child through phone calls to check in on them, encourage then, and pray for their needs. 

Erika, a single mother, shares how the ministry is making a difference for her family. “Front Step has been like family to me,” she says. “In these times of need they have shown me tremendous amounts of support, whether it be counseling, help with groceries, clothing my family, or a simple ride to resources. 

Erika isn’t alone. Millie is a mother of five children who attend the after-school program. “ … one of the things I love most is that they go above and beyond to make sure you and your family [are] doing good,” she says. “They come and pray for you.”

During this pandemic, the staff and volunteers at Front Step are rejoicing for the new doors that are opening to sharing the love and message of Christ, and are committed to safely caring for their community in every way they can.