What are the Mlk community feeding programs?

Mary L. King was a proud missionary and member of the Historic Holsey Temple in Germantown. In the 1980s, she joined forces with Rev. Lloyd Watkins, fellow missionaries, and community partners to launch a weekly soup kitchen. For 15 years, the church’s missionaries sustained the program, slowly growing their weekly offering of light soup and sandwiches into a three-course hot meal. Serving as both supervisor and head chef, King provided nourishing meals to countless individuals struggling with food insecurity in Germantown.

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When Rev. Alfred Jones III took the reins as director, the program expanded. Under his leadership, the weekly service grew to include coffee and tea, alongside dedicated stations for bagels, soup, clothing, and welcoming greetings. These additions not only enhanced the support offered to guests but also created new ways for volunteers to get involved in the Mary L. King (MLK) Feeding community. The weekly gatherings drew in guests and volunteers alike, forging bonds, fostering mentorships, and weaving relationships that have lasted for decades.

Over time, this supportive network grew to include non-profit partners like CareerLink, Philabundance, and the Germantown Friends School (GFS).

 

When Rev. Jones passed the baton to his dedicated assistant, Ms. Lenora Starks, she seamlessly continued the program's strong legacy of mentoring volunteers and preparing reliably delicious hot meals.

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Under the recent leadership of Pastor Lynn M. Hargrow, the program has evolved to meet modern needs. With Ms. Denise Siler serving as Head Chef and Karen Ampomah as administrative lead, the initiative continues to provide weekly hot meals, subscription-based senior food boxes, and emergency provisions. Today, the community also benefits from healthcare resources provided by partners like Oak Street Health and Covenant House.

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Seasonal and health-focused programming has expanded as well. Recent additions include annual turkey giveaways sponsored by the GFS Volunteer Club; fresh grocery distributions in partnership with Sen. Art Haywood, State Rep. Andre Carroll, and the West Allegheny Food Bank; winter visits from Santa Claus; and new, healthy menu options like fresh juices and açaí bowls.

These programs continue to grow because the reality of food insecurity in the community remains. Yet, we remain heartened by the willingness of those willing to do the work.

 

Despite changing seasons, fluctuating food availability, and shifting economic prospects, the Mary L. King Feeding programs stand as a steadfast pillar in Germantown—bringing people together to physically and spiritually nourish those in need.