Lunch
Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, "go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there; for I have commanded a widow there to feed you."

Zarephath Kitchen

Q.  Why is it here?
A.  To feed hungry people.

In 1976, Trinity Lutheran Church opened the Gresham branch of Snow-CAP.  By the end of 1985, it became obvious that needy families would benefit from a hot noon meal.  The first meal was served on Christmas 1985.  This grew to 3 meals a week in January 1986 and by June of 1986 it had expanded to 5 days a week.  Meals continue to be served Monday through Friday from 11 am to 1 pm.

Q.  Who does it serve?
A.  Anyone needing a hot meal. 

There is no criteria for admittance, no identification is required and there is no limit to how often a person can come.  The dining room can accommodate thirty-two guests at a time.

Q.  Who has come?
A.  Many different individuals.

Initially, 700 meals were served monthly.  This has grown to a monthly average of over 2,600 meals.  Over 34,500 meals are served annually.  The guests who are being served are comprised of 30% minority, 10% seniors, 30% children and 30% unclassified.  They include needy families, single parents, individuals, farm workers and the elderly.

Q.  How does it happen?
A.  Volunteerism.

The kitchen is run totally by volunteers, there is no paid staff.  The kitchen is widely supported in the community, with gifts coming from churches, individuals, civic groups, and businesses.

Q.  Who can help?
A.  YOU can help.

There are many ways to become involved in this ministry.  You can donate prayers, time, financial support, or food.  Presently about 85 individuals give their time.  Volunteers gather around 9:30 am to begin the day's meal preparation.  At 11 am the door opens to the first guests and lunch is served until 1 pm.

Q.  Where does it happen?
A.  Very close to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Zarephath Kitchen is located in a house owned by Trinity Lutheran Church at 57 NW Ava in Gresham.  Entrance to the facility is through the north parking lot of Trinity Lutheran Church.  The door to the building is on the west side of the house at the end of the cement sidewalk.

The ministry of Zarephath Kitchen continues to be valuable to both those who serve and those who come in to be fed. Friendly words and smiles greet all and are a sincere reflection of the feelings of those who feel they are doing the Lord’s work at Zarephath Kitchen. The fruit of the Spirit of joy, peace and love– hopefully we generate these to all volunteers and quests.

For information or to volunteer, call 503-667-2692

This page last updated:  09/17/07