In the heart of Hamilton, a beacon of hope and sustenance exists for those in need. Every Wednesday, the Hamilton church, perched atop the hill at 43 King Street, opens its doors to hungry and seeking souls, providing a hot, healthy meal and a warm sense of community.
What started as a humble initiative has become a steadfast tradition of compassion and service. Over three decades, under several dedicated Adventist Community Services leaders, including its present leader, Marva Trott, Hamilton church has been extending a helping hand to the less fortunate. Trott and her 11 dedicated volunteers join hands to ensure those in need receive up to four meals.
Every Wednesday, the team swings into action, making certain that those who hunger for food and spiritual nourishment find solace within their walls. However, the meal program does not only feed the residents of Hamilton. On the island’s western side, the Rockaway church serves as a satellite meal distribution site, extending the reach of this heartwarming initiative.
Pre-COVID, this cherished event offered more than just sustenance. Community members were welcomed with a hearty meal and had the opportunity to sit down, share conversations, and engage in Bible studies. Pastors from the church would frequently visit, providing spiritual guidance and ministering to the hearts of those who sought it. Spiritually enriching videos often played in the background, adding another layer to the dining experience. When the pandemic struck, the dedication of Hamilton church members remained unwavering. While in-person gatherings were temporarily suspended, the spirit of community service endured. The church pivoted to providing carry-out meals, ensuring no one went hungry during these trying times. Additionally, the program generously distributes groceries, a lifeline for many. All it takes is a simple call to Hamilton church to access this support.
This incredible program is made possible by the sacrificial sponsorship of the Hamilton church and its members. While a few corporate sponsors have lent their support, donations from the community are always welcomed with open arms. A collective spirit of giving fuels this remarkable tradition of compassion, turning Wednesdays into a beacon of hope for those in the city of Hamilton and the village of Somerset who are hungry and searching.
As the Hamilton church marks over 30 years of steadfast commitment to their community, they are a testament to the power of compassion and faith in action. It’s not just about the food they provide; it’s about the fellowship, the spiritual enrichment, and the sense of belonging they offer to all who seek it. This church on the hill has been a source of physical sustenance and a place where souls find nourishment, love, and hope, week after week.