First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh

First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh has been called "the church in the heart of the city with the city in its heart." We are a dynamic, transforming church, where all are welcome, lives are changed, and the gospel is lived and proclaimed. We also are committed to helping our poor, homeless and vulnerable neighbors who come to our doors every day, most of whom struggle with food insecurity.

We are so much more than a beautiful, historic building. Our location allows us to minister to our poor, homeless and vulnerable neighbors, many of whom live on the streets and are in need of food and other assistance. Each Monday through Thursday, our church doors are open to those who need a shelter from the weather or a place for quiet reflection and prayer. Because of our strategic location, we also welcome thousands of visitors into our building each year.

We provide space at no or little cost to non-profit organizations in Pittsburgh. We seek to expand our ministry to Pittsburghers in innovative, creative ways. Following are some of the ways in which we reach out to our community.

1) Downtown Ministerium Walk-In Ministry - - FPCP serves one week in four as a place of hospitality and material help for 200+ clients who experience the hardships of homelessness and food insecurity. Hot meals are provided as well as access to a food pantry stocked with items we purchase at a discount from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Annually, we serve more than 2,000 individuals and families through our Food Pantry. Each year, we distribute more than six tons of food/toiletries.

Testimonials

Sharon Boone, co-director of Outreached Arms, describes how FPCP has enhanced her ministry:

"We have been so fortunate to have been able to partner with FPCP for several years now. With their help, we are now able to provide hot meals in a safe, sheltered area for our local Homeless and working poor men, women and children. Because of the access to church facilities, we serve approximately 100-150 meals weekly. Prior to this partnership, we served our friends under a bridge on the streets of Pittsburgh. There was no place to sit. Many often ate standing up or got their food to go. This left us with little, if any, time to build relationships."