ATLANTA – To address a growing U.S. hunger crisis, the General Board of Global Ministries is making Feeding Our Neighbors food ministry grants available, offering up to $2,000 in emergency food funding for United Methodist congregations with food ministries, pantries and ministry partners across the United States. United Methodist churches seeking to participate in the program can learn more and apply here. Applications are open and will be accepted through December 15, 2025.
These grants are intended to inspire acts of compassion at this time, in answer to Jesus’ call in Matthew 25:35: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.”
As the U.S. government shutdown continues, more than 40 million people are expected to lose food assistance benefits beginning Nov. 1.
“Already, community-based organizations and food ministries are reporting surges in requests for assistance, as individuals and families face critical decisions about daily living expenses,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary of Global Ministries and UMCOR. “The further loss of food assistance benefits will have devastating consequences for millions of families. We pray that these grants will help local churches respond quickly and compassionately in their congregations and communities.”
Dr. Dana Lyles, who serves as director and team lead for Global Ministries’ Multiethnic Ministries, added, “Families are already struggling with inflation, job losses and cuts to safety-net programs that provide medical, food and financial support. These grants will allow United Methodists to stand together to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Feeding Our Neighbors grants have been made available through the United Methodist Voluntary Service Program. Designed to operate at a community level, the grants directly support local church food ministries and pantries. Global Ministries is also working on a large grant with an established partner, Feeding America, to address broader U.S. needs. This grant will come to the board of directors for approval in the coming weeks.
Approved grants will be dispersed within three weeks of approval to provide immediate support for local food ministries during this critical time.
Media Contacts:
Susan Clark
Chief Communications Officer, General Board of Global Ministries
Communications@umcmission.org
Dana Lyles
Director, Multiethnic Ministries
mem@umcmission.org
