First United Methodist Church of Martinsville

Mission:
First United Methodist Church in Martinsville, Virginia, is a faith-based community dedicated to serving individuals of all ages and backgrounds through worship, education, and a wide range of outreach ministries. The church is deeply rooted in tradition, having been established in 1839, and is committed to bringing the Word of God into the future while addressing the needs of the local community and beyond.

Local Outreach and Services:

• Shower and Hygiene Program: Every Tuesday at 8:00 AM, the Uptown Ministry Center opens for community members without access to shower facilities, also providing personal hygiene items.
• Community Lunch: Each Tuesday at 11:00 AM, a prepared meal and fellowship opportunity is offered to those in need.
• Food Bank: Located in the Uptown Ministry Center, the food bank operates on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, distributing boxes of food to community members.
• Karen's Pantry: Provides emergency food bags for a few meals to anyone who comes to the Church Office, available on an as-needed basis.
• Clothes Closet: Offers clothing and limited household items, open during Food Bank hours and by appointment.

Community Partnerships and Support:

• School Supply Drives: Supplies are provided to Albert Harris Elementary School at the start of the school year, and food bags are distributed during school breaks to Albert Harris, Patrick Henry, and Campbell Court.
• Back2School Mission: In partnership with other uptown churches, the church helps provide local students with new socks, shoes, and backpacks filled with school supplies, as well as volunteer support for event logistics.

National and International Missions:

• Support for Missionaries: The church supports Ellyn Benson Dubberly, a leadership development coordinator with the Evangelical Methodist Church in Central America.
• City of Hope (Tanzania): Active involvement in a residential care facility for vulnerable children, including orphans and girls rescued from abuse.
• Roma Education Project (North Macedonia): Sponsorship of educational initiatives for Roma children.

Additional Ministries:

• Children and Youth Programs: Strong faith-based programs for children and youth.
• Bible Studies and Fellowship: Ongoing series for women, young adults, and seniors.
• Music Ministry: Opportunities for musical outreach and worship.

Eligibility and Service Area:

• Services are primarily intended for individuals and families in Martinsville and Henry County, Virginia. There is no explicit mention of residency or income requirements for most services, and programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all in need within the community.

Facilities:

• The Uptown Ministry Center serves as the hub for many outreach activities, including food, clothing, hygiene, and fellowship programs.