Giving to local organizations that work for peace and justice is a priority. A Pilgrims contact person is in touch with each organization we support, to help us learn from and increase our involvement in these organizations and their issues. The current list of organizations Pilgrims supports includes:
Builders of Hope (BoH is under EASS, scroll down on webpage) – provides a transitional home and a variety of support programs that enables those who are unhoused to secure housing in communities in northern Lancaster County. BOH works in partnership with 2 local school districts, community resources, and agency partners to provide a holistic response that strives to break the cycle of homelessness. Partner churches provide financial and volunteer support for the homes. Pilgrims works with the BOH apartments in the Ephrata area.
Ephrata Area Social Services(EASS)– started by a group of Ephrata-area churches, EASS is committed to the ideal of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.” In the midst of a flourishing economy, there are those in need who are all but forgotten. EASS programs include a food and clothing bank, Meals on Wheels, transportation services, and community support services.
Friendship Community – a Christian ministry cultivating capabilities of Individuals with Intellectual Disability and Autism in Lancaster and Lebanon Counties since 1972. Its ministry includes operation of numerous group homes.
Lancaster County Chooses Love (LCCL) – a grassroots organization that is committed to advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals within the community by creating safe social spaces and connecting community members with local resource. It began in 2021 in Lititz and began hosting LGBTQ friendly hikes. LCCL now oversees an LGBTQ Community Center in Lititz which offers a food pantry in partnership with the Central PA Food bank, a gender-affirming clothing closet, and an LGBTQ library. The food pantry is open on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. LCCL also offers a young-adult support group, an After School Alliance program in partnership with the Lancaster Public Library, and different workshops and family fun nights. LCCL hosts an annual Pride Festival in Lititz Springs Park.
Lancaster Bail Fund (LBF) – a catalyst for social justice in the fight against pretrial and mass incarceration. It was established in 2021 as an option for people who would otherwise languish indefinitely in Lancaster County Prison due to an inability to pay bail. LBF is a volunteer-run nonprofit. It is a revolving fund, meaning the same money can be used over and over. LBF is a member of the National Bail Fund Network.
Mennonite Action – a movement of Mennonites, Christians, and friends following in the example of Jesus Christ, who called us to live as active peacemakers, standing firmly on the side of the downtrodden and the oppressed. The group takes public action against the occupation of Palestine and for a world where all God’s children are free.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) – Mennonite Central Committee U.S. seeks to relieve suffering in the name of Christ; promote peace and justice; dismantle racism and sexism; generate resources; and coordinate MCC’s work in the United States. MCC U.S. partners with Mennonite and Brethren in Christ congregations and carries out its mission of service and peace through four regional offices and the National Peace and Justice Ministries office in Washington DC. Pilgrims supports its international and domestic activities, including contributions towards its Peace and Justice programs.
Parish Resource Center (PRC) – provides organizational partners and dedicated volunteers with resources, educational opportunities and creative solutions to increase the impact of the good work already being done in our area.
WriteFace – helps veterans generate a healthier spirit within themselves, for their families, at work, and in our communities through guided writing excercises and interaction with instructors and fellow participants.