This article shares the story of a vibrant, impactful ministry supported by a Bishop’s Appeal Grant. Make a contribution to the Bishop’s Appeal to support ministries like this.
Launched with seed money from the Bishop’s Appeal, the Babies to Boomers Program at Emmanuel, Harrisonburg, was created to address the need for hygiene products expressed by Emmanuel’s Food Pantry clients. These funds provide essential items such as baby diapers, formula, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products, significantly impacting the lives of their clients.
Since its inception two years ago, Babies to Boomers has grown from 0% participation to serving over 52% of pantry clients with these essential items. To date, more than 100,000 diapers and 22,000 adult incontinence and feminine hygiene products have been distributed. This expansion has not only improved access to hygiene essentials but also increased overall Food Pantry visits. Families are more likely to seek food assistance at Emmanuel because they can also receive these additional products. As a result, the Food Pantry now serves over 13,000 family members annually.
The impact of Babies to Boomers goes beyond numbers. It offers clients hope and dignity in providing necessary items for their loved ones and themselves. Rachel, a client and mother of twins, expressed her gratitude saying, “Thank you so much for the diapers. You don’t know how much this helps.” Another client, Teresa, remarked, “Unlike some places, I am treated with respect when I come here.” Rooted in the belief that “God loves everyone, no exceptions,” the program ensures that no client goes without and that every individual is treated with care and compassion.
Looking ahead, the Babies to Boomers Program plans to diversify its food offerings to better serve an age- and culturally-diverse clientele. One of the program’s ongoing challenges is serving a global clientele. Volunteers frequently assist clients who speak up to 12 different languages, making communication and translation vital. Many clients request culturally familiar foods or items for religious holidays. Addressing these requests is a priority, and Babies to Boomers is actively seeking ways to provide culturally appropriate foods—a major goal for the coming year.
“This ministry is a blessing for the clients, the volunteers, and the church,” said Food Pantry Board Member Dave Seiter. “It brings joy to so many people.”
Thanks to the seed money from the Bishop’s Appeal, Babies to Boomers has not only thrived but has become a cornerstone of Emmanuel’s Food Pantry, serving downtown Harrisonburg and beyond. By meeting practical needs with compassion and dignity, the program embodies its mission to serve all of God’s children.
