“This place saved me before I even asked for help.”
– Participant, Morning Breakfast Program
“East Lake isn’t just services. It’s soul, recovery, and family.”
– Peer Group Facilitator
One of ELUMC’s newest programs is the East Lake Recovery Drop-in Center. This unique and collaborative ministry walks alongside individuals in their recovery journey and provides guidance and resources of many kinds for those navigating substance use, housing instability, and other systemic barriers to care. We pursue dignity, health, and hope for all people through workforce development programs, ID replacement assistance, peer-led group sessions, referrals to other services and treatment centers, recreational activities that emphasize belonging, sharing of quality meals and hygiene products, and more.
Over the past year, we have:
- facilitated over 1,000 peer-led recovery groups
- co-hosted more than 15 community events, including trainings and health fairs
- referred 98 individuals to detox or inpatient treatment
- assisted 72 individuals in replacing IDs
- assisted 102 individuals with SNAP, SSI, or health insurance enrollment
- distributed more than 800 life-saving Narcan kits
- served over 12,000 hot breakfasts and lunches
- received participant feedback noticing increased feelings of safety, belonging, and hope, which are indicators of growing capital for recovery
For more insight, you can view our 2024-2025 Year End Report.
You can learn more about or contact our Recovery Center by visiting the website or Facebook page dedicated to this specific ministry of the church.
If you are interested in supporting the work of our Recovery Center, you can reach out to staff members about volunteering or donate items like these to our Wellness Pantry and Clothes Closet:
- Mens’ or Womens’ Underwear (New)
- Hand Soap
- Wash Cloths
- Deodorant
- Lotion
- Toothpaste
- Warm winter clothes, gloves, hats, socks, and blankets (new or gently used)
You can drop off donation items at the church office during the week or at church on Sundays. Click here for directions, hours, and more!