Telegraph Ministry Center Food Pantry

Overview

The Telegraph Community Ministry Center has the goal of reaching out to those in need within our community with the love of Jesus Christ. Many individuals in the Bay area struggle to provide enough food and clothing for their family. By offering these services, we hope to follow Christ’s example of serving others.

Mission: The Telegraph Community Ministry Center seeks to assist those in finding a relationship with Jesus Christ as the foundational element for living a productive life.

Services offered

• Food Pantry: Our food pantry distributes to people in need in Oakland and Alameda County. We distribute food Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, Fridays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, and Wednesday evenings from 5 pm to 7 pm. The pantry is designed to assist individuals and families with emergency food. If you or someone you know needs food, we’ll be happy to assist you. Our aim is to provide a variety of healthy food. Usually we have fresh fruits and vegetables, canned food, pasta, rice, bread, and protein. Occasionally we have other items such as cereal, oatmeal, eggs, chicken, or tofu. We appreciate it if you could bring your own bags or cart when you pick up. Food is distributed from a number of different sources, such as USDA, Alameda County, the city of Oakland, the Alameda County Community Food Bank, and donations from local businesses. Due to the variety of sources we cannot guarantee specific items, however we try to provide healthy choices.
• Emergency Food: If you are in need of emergency food, please visit during our normal food pantry hours or call or text (510) 961-4385.
• Clothing Closet: Raising a family in the Bay Area is an expensive endeavor. In addition to the high cost of rent, food, and transportation, one must provide diapers, baby formula, school supplies, and materials for extracurricular activities. Fortunately, the Telegraph Ministry Center has a resource to help with some of these challenges for our clients. The clothing room provides new and gently used shirts, pants, coats, and shoes for not only children but people of all ages. For parents with infants, we have diapers available as well as formula and other baby provisions. All of the items clients receive from the Telegraph Ministry Center are provided free of charge. We rely on the generosity of those who support our ministry to provide these resources. If you are interested in donating clothes, diapers, or small household items, please let us know. The clothing closet is open from Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, Fridays from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, and Wednesday evenings from 5 pm to 7 pm.
• Manna From Heaven: Mornings at the Telegraph Community Ministry Center have never been brighter. Not only are hardworking volunteers carrying out the mission of delivering food to low-income and houseless people twice weekly, but the community edible garden is in full swing, as well as a five-day-a-week breakfast program. Manna From Heaven prepares and serves its breakfast program every Wednesday through Sunday from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
• Community Garden: Organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs are grown on site through the efforts of dedicated volunteers and the Victory Garden Foundation. Community residents work together in an open garden setting where we all share the labor and the harvest. Contact us to learn more and find out how you can participate.

Who they help

Anyone in the community facing food or clothing insecurity. Families and individuals experiencing economic, spiritual, or emotional hardship. People experiencing homelessness. Seniors and students in need. Anyone seeking spiritual growth or connection to a local church.

Denomination and statement of faith

Non-denominational

Our ultimate desire is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ in all that we do. We believe the Bible is God’s word applicable to each person’s life and we will make decisions based on our understanding of God’s truth while seeking the Lord through prayer, and acting within His grace and mercy. We would like to see discipleship take place, and seek to partner with local churches in order to connect people to a loving congregation where they may grow in their walk with Christ.

Get involved

TCMC relies on volunteers to help with meal prep, assisting clients, sorting clothing, unloading food deliveries, and working in the community garden. Volunteers with specific skills are also welcome to help lead personal enrichment classes (financial counseling, job readiness, health and wellness, Bible studies). Interested volunteers can apply through the volunteer form on the site.

Location and service area

5316 Telegraph Ave Oakland, CA 94609