Summer Suppers for the Hungry

First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights has joined a group of approximately 20 churches in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago to provide dinner from May through September for those who might otherwise go without. The idea for Summer Suppers first took hold at St. James Catholic Church in Arlington Heights in 2012. By 2013, four more churches had joined the effort, each serving from 21 to 56 guests per supper. This year, the number of churches participating is up to nearly 20. Summer Suppers is a grass-roots effort to feed anyone in the community who is hungry. Clients include those who are homeless, those who rely on local food pantries, and families struggling to stretch their food dollars.

Some churches, like First Presbyterian, offer their facilities to host the suppers, and others partner with them to provide resources and volunteer staffing. Church of the Incarnation United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights is partnering with First Pres. "We are excited about this new opportunity to minister to the hungry in the community," says volunteer Barbara Psimoulis, First Pres Summer Suppers coordinator. "This is a wonderful way to open the doors of the church to provide a great meal in a friendly atmosphere for those in need."

The first ever Summer Supper at First Presbyterian, held on May 5, welcomed 34 guests. Volunteers sat and talked with guests and some were able to take a break from serving to share the meal with them. "Pastor BJ Birkhahn-Rommelfanger, from Church of the Incarnation, offered a mealtime prayer and requested God's blessings for all present," said Rev. Barbara Gorsky, associate pastor for mission at First Pres. "Portions were plentiful and totally enjoyed!" added Psimoulis. "It was a lovely evening."

Summer Suppers will be served 6:30-8:30 pm every Monday and Wednesday and most Fridays and Saturdays between May and September. Each host church provides dinner only once per month, according to the rotation schedule, which is publicized in churches and local social service organizations. To learn more about the Summer Suppers ministry, call First Presbyterian Church office 847-255-5900.