Interfaith Coalition Expands Food Security Program to 500 Sites
A Methodist-led interfaith food initiative has grown from 12 pilot churches to 500 distribution sites across 38 states, serving 2 million meals monthly.
What began as a pilot program in 12 United Methodist churches has grown into one of the nation's largest interfaith food security networks, now operating at more than 500 sites across 38 states and serving over 2 million meals per month.
The Growth Story
The Nourish Network, founded in 2022 by a coalition of United Methodist, Presbyterian, and Lutheran congregations, has expanded rapidly by leveraging existing church infrastructure — kitchens, fellowship halls, and volunteer networks — to create efficient food distribution systems.
Model for Ministry
"Churches are uniquely positioned for this work," said Rev. Maria Santos, the network's executive director and a United Methodist elder. "We have the physical space, the volunteer base, and the trust of our communities. We just needed a framework to connect and scale."
The program has been recognized by the USDA as a model for faith-based food security initiatives.
Linda Bloom
Assistant News Editor, UM News
