Background:

In the Spring of 2004, several individuals from two local churches spoke independently with their pastors about the possibility of beginning a ministry to needy Allegany County residents.

These individuals invited church members from five different Christian denominations to a planning meeting where those visions were shared, and a small group began meet on a regular basis to discuss how to make it happen.

After many discussions and prayerful consideration, the non-denominational WELLSPRING MINISTRIES was born.

WELLSPRING MINISTRIES looked for a home at numerous sites in the county. In 2005, the Angelica Bible Church voted to allow WELLSPRING MINISTRIES to use the old worship facility for its ministry center.

The Mission:

To share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the people of Allegany County by providing emergency food, clothing, and shelter, and through encouraging counseling, and mentoring, to help them become all that God created them to be.

The Vision:

-Operating a Christ-centered soup kitchen (free weekly meal service)                                                       

-Giving like-new and/or new clothing to needy people                               

-Providing a food cupboard for those in need of nutritious food                         

-Empowering homeless and needy people to become productive and contributing members in their families, churches, and communities

The Need:

--Social Services of Allegany County has identified 251 cases of homelessness in 2001 and 2002. However, in 2003, a 42% increase was reported, for a total of 358 identified cases of homelessness, involving significantly more individuals and family groups.

-Each year many Allegany County families lose their homes to floods, fires, family strife, or other circumstances.

The Solution:

-WELLSPRING MINISTRIES will, as a result of prayer and financial support, provide for the effective and safe operation of an onsite weekly meal service, food cupboard, free clothes closet, and counseling referral center for needy people.                                                                                           

-WELLSPRING MINISTRIES will provide individuals and families opportunities to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually by working in concert with appropriate churches, agencies, and institutions.                                                     

-WELLSPRING MINISTRIES will provide ongoing recruitment and training for all volunteers associated with its ministry.