People Serving People

People Serving People is one of the largest emergency shelters in Minnesota, located near the Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis. People Serving People not only provides shelter and food for its’ residents, but also education, social and life skill programs, including a culinary training program and many special programs for the children.

People Serving People can house from 350 to 400 residents a night, usually about 80% are children under 13 years of age (average age is 7), with residents staying as short as one day to an average of 31 days. They may also stay in the upper two floors reserved for transitional housing units (e.g., two bedroom, mini apartments) where they can stay for up to 2 years.

So how does Presbyterian Church of the Way help? People Serving People has a food service that serves three meals a day, 365 days a year, and each meal is served by volunteer help. We share Friday dinner service with Peace Presbyterian Church, PCOTW goes on the 1^st and 3^rd Fridays of the month; Peace Presbyterian goes on the 2^nd, 4^th and 5^th, when necessary. PCOTW takes 6 to 8 people each time, departing church at 3:45 p.m., serving dinner from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m,, followed by clean up. Dave is the chef and the food always smells and tastes great. We have a small group of dedicated volunteers but welcome new members. Not only have we become friends with the staff, but we also are rewarded with many smiles and thank you’s from the residents.

Please contact Steve Zilmer or Linda Lundeen for additional information or to get involved.