Outreach Initiatives

Westminster operates a weekly food bank known as The Pantry, a vital ministry dedicated to supporting individuals and families in our local community who are facing food insecurity. 

How do I attend The Pantry?
There will be a line up outside by the front door. The Pantry is open on Tuesdays from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Please join the queue. When it is your turn a volunteer will greet you. You will need to bring a bag to carry your food.

How can I support The Pantry?
Food donations can be dropped off during office hours. Financial contributions to Westminster are also gratefully received.

Caring Cooks is a dedicated group of volunteers who provide home-cooked meals to individuals and families in our congregation during times of need. Whether someone is recovering from surgery, facing illness, or adjusting to life with a new baby, Caring Cooks steps in with nourishment and kindness. It’s a simple but meaningful way we share love and support within our church community.

How can I help make meals?
Please fill out the form at the bottom of this page to get in touch with the group coordinator. They will add you to the list of those who are reached out to when meals are needed.

Each year, Westminster prepares Christmas Hampers to help brighten the holiday season for individuals and families in need. These hampers are more than just toys and clothes, they’re a heartfelt expression of love and support for individuals and families who may be facing difficult times.

How can I help support the Christmas Hampers program?
• In early November we have anonymous tags available that indicate a child’s age, clothing size, and gift ideas. When you take a tag you can provide gifts for that child to be dropped off at the church.
• Drivers are needed on delivery day to drop off hampers to families.
• Financial donations are used to purchase gifts for children whose tags are unselected.

Each year at the end of summer, Westminster organizes The Backpack Project, which provides children from families who access the local food bank with a backpack for their school year. These brand-new backpacks are filled with essential school supplies, everything from notebooks and pencils to crayons and rulers, so that every child can start the school year prepared to learn.

Can I provide a backpack or supplies?
Yes! Starting in August we begin receiving donations of backpacks and school supplies. These items can be dropped off in the Food Bank donation box just inside the front door of the church.

Supplies needed:

Durham Outlook is a non-profit located in downtown Oshawa. They serve nutritious meals daily to those in need in a dignified, restaurant-style setting. Westminster volunteers team up monthly to help prepare, serve, and clean up meal service.

Can I lend a hand at DOFN?
Absolutely! We volunteer on the second Tuesday of the month from 3:30pm – 6:30pm. Fill out the form at the bottom of the page to be connected with the Westminster DOFN team coordinator.

The Living Alone Luncheon is a special monthly gathering designed for individuals from both our church and the wider community who live alone. It offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy conversation and connection over a delicious, hearty two-course meal—all at a reasonable cost. Volunteering at this event is a deeply rewarding experience, as it allows you to build meaningful relationships, share kindness, and be part of a team that brings joy and companionship to others.

How can I participate in the luncheon?
We’re grateful for those who would like to help with food prep, tables & chairs set up, serving, and clean up. If you’d like to lend a hand, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page to be connected with the group coordinator.

The Parish Mosaic Committee supports us in our commitment to being an Affirming community of faith. They work to ensure that all people—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or background—feel welcomed, valued, and celebrated here. The Parish Mosaic Committee helps us grow as a church that reflects God’s love for all.

Can I participate?
Walk with us at Durham Pride, sing and pray with us at the Affirming worship service! Also, the more the merrier on the Parish Mosaic team! We are pleased to welcome your support.

Our Prayer Shawl Ministry is a heartfelt expression of care. Members of our congregation lovingly knit and crochet shawls that are gifted to individuals during times of need or celebration. Whether someone is facing illness, going through a difficult season, receiving end-of-life care, or welcoming a new baby or baptism, these shawls serve as a tangible reminder of God’s love, presence, and comfort. Each shawl is made with prayerful intention and is a symbol of the support and warmth of our church community.

I’d love to make a prayer shawl, how do I start?
We’re grateful for your support! We can provide you with yarn and other supplies. If you are dropping off a prayer shawl, please attach a note with the date and your name. There is a basket in the office to place your prayer shawl in. Please reach out via the form at the bottom of the page for more details.

Our Winter-Wear Drive is a seasonal initiative focused on bringing warmth and comfort to those in need throughout our community. We collect new hats, mittens, scarves, and socks—essential items that can make a big difference during the cold winter months. All donations are distributed through local organizations that serve individuals and families facing hardship.

How do I provide winter-wear?
Each Sunday in Advent, there will be an area set up in the Narthex to collect new hats, mittens, scarves, and socks. You can leave items in the baskets provided. Thank you for your support!

Manning Mews Non-Profit Homes Corporation is an Outreach of Westminster. It begun in 1978 to provide 20 affordable housing units for seniors including half of the units as rent geared to 30% of taxable income. Directors are required to volunteer their time to provide governance and oversight for the operations, management and audited finances of the Corporation. Directors’ liability insurance is provided by the Corporation and Director’s expenses are also covered by the Corporation. Directors do not need to be members of the United Church.

Inquiries regarding Manning Mews will be forwarded to a director.