Throughout the year, Salem takes up collections for the following ministries which reflect the mission and priorities of our congregation.

In February and July – The Top of the Mountain Ecumenical Council (TOMEC) food pantry at the Five Loaf House provides bags of food each month to over 250 families in our community. TOMEC’s mission is to alleviate hunger by providing households with access to sufficient nutritious food to help increase self-sufficiency, and instill hope. Also, donations of grocery items are welcomed throughout the year.

 In March – The UCC’s One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) supports emergency and disaster relief, refugee ministries, and human development projects in the United States and across the globe.

 In April and August – Salem’s Backpack Ministry provides weekend food packages during the school year for children who receive free or reduced lunches. Children at risk of hunger receive a backpack full of child-friendly, healthy, and nutritious food to take home for the weekend. Each Friday this program reaches over fifty children at our local elementary school.

In October – The UCC’s Neighbors in Need (NIN) offering is used to support ministries of justice and compassion throughout the United States.

In November – Gifts of clothing, to be given at Christmas, are collected for local children of TOMEC families, selected from the Giving Tree.

In December – The UCC’s Christmas Fund provides assistance for clergy families in need, and provides pension supplements to low-income retired clergy.

Also, at Salem’s Christmas Breakfast, a collection is taken up to help brighten the holidays for a local family.