Located in Brunswick, St. Ambrose’s food program began 13 years ago as the community-focused branch of St. Ambrose Catholic Parish. It was small, helping
approximately 10 families, and has since grown to serve more than 500 families each year. The program operates a food pantry and a community meal for families struggling with hunger.
“A lot of people think of Medina as a more affluent area—and there are places where it is, but I can take you to places that you would be shocked exist here in
Brunswick,” shares Jeff Trush, director of St. Ambrose’s food programs.
He explains that while some residents may view Brunswick as “not that bad” compared to neighboring areas, there are still people struggling to make ends meet. The organization’s goal is to provide assistance now in order to stop the need from growing.
In addition to providing a hot meal and groceries, volunteers also connect individuals in need to local services that assist with a variety of issues, such as housing, dental services, and offer a Christmas in July program that provides school supplies for children.
Partnering with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has allowed St. Ambrose to stretch its small budget to provide a wider range of food options at both its hot meal and pantry. “Controlling cost is the hardest thing,” said Trush. “The Foodbank really plays a big role in that because we can drive our costs down on many products, including meat, and I really believe that the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has allowed us to serve a more quality meal.”
Thanks to community support and its partnership with the Foodbank, St. Ambrose has provided more than 4,500 meals in the past year and continues to serve community members in need in Medina County.