$40 Raised for Project Concern

Project Concern’s Mission: To compassionately provide a path to self-sufficiency by providing basic needs such as food, clothing, and referrals to additional community resources.

Project Concern’s History: In 1968, a group of caring people recognized that bad things can happen to good people and that some of their community members needed help. So they started a food pantry. The pantry was named Project Concern of Cudahy/St. Francis. St. Frederick’s Catholic church, (currently Nativity of the Lord) gave the group permission to house the food pantry in a small room in the lower level of the church. Soon the pantry grew and included the distribution of clothing and household items.

Community interest also grew and a number of local congregations joined together to help the endeavor. With continuing support from sponsoring parishes, individuals, community groups and local businesses, Project Concern has evolved to meet its mission to lend support to families and individuals in need. Project Concern is currently supported by the following congregations:

• Nativity of the Lord Catholic Church
• Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church
• St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church
• St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
• Changing Lives Assembly of God

Project Concern provides food, clothing, furniture, books, toys and household items to hundreds of families per month. Project Concern also works with many different agencies and support organizations to provide outreach for clients that qualify for any number of the social service programs that are available.

Project Concern had partnered with Interfaith for Older Adults programs to provide staff support and management. In 2010, the formal partnership was dissolved giving the food pantry flexibility in hiring and personnel practices. In 2011, Project Concern and Cudahy/St. Francis Interfaith Program for the Elderly (CSFI) merged their offices and supervision. Each program continues to maintain its own identity while improving efficiencies through collaboration.

In 2018, Project Concern became a “My Plate” food pantry as designated by Hunger Task Force. This means that the pantry follows the USDA model for healthy eating by providing our patrons with fresh produce, dairy items and lean protein.

In 2018, Project Concern changed operations and became a My-Choice food pantry. This allows our patrons to shop and choose the food they want instead of being given pre-packed items. This results in better use of the food for our families. It also allows our patrons to consider their dietary needs while shopping for food.