Transforming East Cleveland: A Church's Mission to Nourish the Community

In the heart of East Cleveland, a small church is making a big impact on the lives of its residents. Starlight Missionary Baptist Church has taken on the responsibility of providing fresh and frozen foods to those in need, filling a critical gap in a city that lacks a single grocery store. This inspiring story highlights the resilience and dedication of a community-driven organization, determined to make a lasting difference.

Feeding the Hungry, Nourishing the Soul

A Lifeline for the Community

Twice a month, Starlight Missionary Baptist Church opens its doors to hundreds of residents in need, offering a lifeline of fresh and frozen foods. Rosetta Moore, one of the many recipients, expressed her gratitude for the church's efforts, saying, "Sometimes I've run out of food. Not intentionally, but it happens. So, I'm grateful for it."

Expanding the Reach

The church's food distribution program has grown exponentially, outgrowing its current space. Rev. Anthony L. Small, Sr., the church's pastor, recognizes the need to expand their operations to better serve the community. He envisions a 1,200-square-foot steel garage on a vacant lot next to the church, which would serve as a dedicated food storage facility and provide easier access for both walk-up and drive-up service.

Navigating the Bureaucratic Maze

However, the path to realizing this vision has not been without its challenges. Rev. Small and the church's leadership have been navigating the bureaucratic process to acquire the vacant lot from the city of East Cleveland. Despite completing the necessary checklist, including securing approval from the city's Neighborhood Advisory Committee, their application has stalled, awaiting a vote by the city council.

Transparency and Accountability

East Cleveland City Council Vice President Patricia Blochowiak acknowledges the issues surrounding the Neighborhood Advisory Committee's compliance with city ordinances, which she believes has prevented the timely processing of land applications, including the church's request. The clerk of council, Eric J. Brewer, has also expressed concerns about the transparency and distribution of the city's land bank properties.

A Prayerful Determination

Despite the bureaucratic hurdles, Rev. Small remains steadfast in his belief that God will make a way. "I'm prayerfully believing that God is gonna make a move," he said. "He's already moving. He's already doing things in our favor." The church's unwavering commitment to serving the community has inspired hope, and they are determined to overcome the challenges to expand their food distribution program and better serve the residents of East Cleveland.