Give-n-Take Cache

The Give-n-Take offers clothing items, miscellaneous houseware items, and food products at no charge to community members in need. Donations for clothing or food in good condition are welcome.

MISSION STATEMENT

Jesus said: "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothing and you clothed me.....whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:35-36,40.

At the Give-n-Take Cache we want to heed these words in practical ways, obey the great commandment and fulfill the great commission. The love of Christ compels us to share His love with the church family and the community. The Give-n-Take Cache, as part of Abbott Loop Community Church, focuses on the physical needs, such as food and clothing, while preserving dignity and providing a pathway for the meeting of spiritual and emotional needs.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Sundays after the church service until 1 p.m.

History

In 1970, a family attending Abbott Loop Community Church lost their home and many of their possessions in a fire. The church members responded by donating items for this family. There was such an overabundance of items dontated that the church decided to start a small clothing pantry. It was started in a small unused room in the church and church members donated time to keeping the area organized. Members would donate items that they no longer wanted and could "shop" for items that they could use. Over time the ministry expanded and friends and neighbors also began donating items to the Give & Take Cache. They liked the idea that the donated items were not sold, but just passed on to the next person in need.

Currently, The Give & Take offers, food, clothing, houseware items, books and toys without charge. In addition to the faithful contributions from our local congregation, we receive donations from local stores and also purchase food items at the Alaska Food Bank. We practice client choice so that instead of being handed a box of food items that a guest may or may not like, we encourage our guests to "shop."

In 2006, we served over 28,150 families, giving out over 256,956 pounds of groceries. In addition, we provided approximately 4,000 on-site meals.