Friendship House Support Needed

As we enter the holiday season, The Friendship House Food Pantry is experiencing unprecedented demand. What once served as a supplemental resource has now become the primary source of food for many of our neighbors. With significant cuts to key programs—such as SNAP and the Healthy Opportunities Program (HOP)—families from all economic backgrounds are turning to us for help.

This December, we are hosting a food drive to help restock the pantry and ensure we can continue meeting these urgent needs. For every day of advent, put a food item in a box that will be given to the food pantry, then drop it off to the front office during the week of Christmas. Every donation—large or small—makes a meaningful difference for families who are struggling.

The Friendship House is a welcoming outreach program of First United Methodist Church of Waynesville that provides free, essential support to families and individuals throughout the week. Guests can enjoy a free hot breakfast every Saturday morning and access the food pantry six days a week. The house also offers clean, private showers with hygiene supplies, a free clothing room with everyday wear and seasonal items, and a household goods section for basic home needs. Families can use the Tech Library for computers, WiFi, headphones, and charging stations, and the Resource Room for desk work, schoolwork, meetings, and support groups. Since opening in 2019, Friendship House has grown into a compassionate community space where everyone is welcome to stop by, receive help, or sign up to volunteer.

For more information email friendshiphouse@fumc-waynesville.com or contact the front office at 828-456-9475.

The Friendship House is part of the JOUNCE Outreach at FUMC Waynesville. For more information on programs available, visit jouncehaywood.com