How a Small Church Pantry Is Transforming Lives in Iowa | Community Ministry in Action
In this episode of Partners in Ministry, host Dan Smith sits down with Cathie Zeliadt, Director of the Middle River Friends Church Food Pantry in Carlisle, Iowa. What started as a small “blessings table” during COVID has grown into a powerful ministry—feeding both bodies and souls in the community.
Cathie shares how the pantry has evolved into a community-supported, volunteer-powered mission that not only meets physical needs but also builds deep, spiritual relationships. Learn how churches can unite, grow, and serve their neighborhoods through practical outreach.
Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or just someone looking for real examples of faith in action, this story will inspire and equip you to step out in service.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to help us spread the message of hope through community ministry!
🛠️ Key Topics Covered:
⛪ Church-led community outreach
👪 Volunteer opportunities and spiritual impact
🤝 Partnerships between churches for greater impact
📙 Real stories of transformation through service
🤔 How to start or grow a food pantry ministry
📌 Want to get involved or support this ministry?
Recorded on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Originally published on Tuesday, May 29, 2025.
Middle River Friends Church Food Pantry:
— Learn More at: https://www.middleriverfriends.org/pantry/
Contact Cathie
— — by Email: dcfz35@gmail.com
— — by Phone: (515) 989-3319
Social Media:
— — Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/131610886889650
Donate to Middle River Friends Church Food Pantry: https://bit.ly/DonatetoMRFP
The Quakerdale Foundation:
— Learn More at: http://QuakerdaleFoundation.org
— Invest in Our Mission: http://QuakerdaleFoundation.org/Give/
— Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://bit.ly/JWQF_Subscribe
— Send an Email: DSmith@Quakerdale-Foundation.org
— Phone: (641) 497-5294
Listen on Spotify: https://bit.ly/JWQF_SpotifyPodcast
#jwqfonline — #jwqfpartnersinministry
(S5E08)
