Our senior pastor, Rev. Sally Allocca, is also the executive director of Promoting Empowerment and Enrichment Resources (P.E.E.R., Inc.). Many P.E.E.R. programs operate out of East Lake UMC and may look and feel like part of ELUMC programs and ministries. We proudly claim P.E.E.R. as our sister non-profit!
You can read more about P.E.E.R. and their mission by clicking here. However, two of their main programs include the Downstairs Diner and the East Lake Farmers Market.
Downstairs Diner – Check out this month’s menu below!
P.E.E.R. staff members use our church kitchen to provide low-cost, high quality meals. We’re now open 5 days a week, so you can swing by anytime Monday-Friday, 11am-1pm. $8 includes a drink and dessert, and it’s only $6 for people 60 and older.
The Diner also includes a seating area, so it’s a perfect spot for a lunch with friends, a lunchtime work meeting/small group/book club, or a chance to meet some new people! There is live music every second Thursday of the month, and there is a crochet group each Tuesday at noon.
In addition to providing lunches during the week, you can also purchase delicious baked goods, casseroles, and more from the Diner. These delicious goods are a big hit during the holidays (We always hope you spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating with your family!), but they are available year-round too. All proceeds support P.E.E.R. programming. All of our offerings, sizes, and prices are featured on the order form below. There are deadlines to order once we approach the holidays, but in the off-season, you just need to call and order with at least 24 hour notice.
For directions and help finding the Diner, click here. For more information on the Diner, check out their Facebook page.
East Lake Farmers Market
The Farmers Market can be found in our smaller parking lot behind the church every Saturday, 8am-12pm, during Market Season (beginning of May through mid-October). The Farmers Market accepts SNAP/EBT and Senior Nutrition Coupons. In addition to being able to support local farmers and get access to fresh fruits and vegetables, you can also find:
- Baked goods like cinnamon rolls and cheese straws
- Casseroles
- Jams and jellies
- Wellness Pantry Hygiene and Health items
- East Lake Market gifts and merchandise
- Occasional live musicians, artists, and demonstrations of all kinds
- A friendly atmosphere that fosters conversation and community
- Kids’ Corner (link to that page) (free fun, games, crafts, and snacks each first Saturday of the month!)
For more information on the Market, check out their website and Facebook page.