Get to Know Us!
Pantry At 219 is a self-service 24/7 pantry where anyone in need can access food, free of charge.
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Kingdom Builders Impact Ministries (KBIM) faced significant challenges in continuing our outreach efforts. Social distancing and restrictions on mass gatherings made traditional community service activities impossible, especially for KBIM outreach arm Gospel Mission. This led KBIM leaders to search for innovative solutions that would allow them to support the community while respecting public health guidelines.
In response to these challenges, KBIM proposed a plan to establish a small self-service pantry. The goal was to provide essential food and supplies to those in need in a way that minimized direct contact and complied with safety protocols.
Before launching the pantry project, KBIM discovered information about community fridges, stand-alone refrigerators placed in accessible locations and managed by local residents. These fridges are stocked through donations from individuals and organizations. KBIM was introduced to FRIDGEPORT, a group dedicated to supporting the implementation of community fridges by connecting resources and donors.
The mission and structure of community fridges closely aligned with KBIM’s vision for a self-service pantry, inspiring KBIM to enhance their original plan by incorporating a fridge into their outreach initiative. As a result of these insights and collaborations, KBIM built a 4x8 structure that housed the fridge for perishables and shelving for non-perishables. With help from the community, KBIM completed the project and officially opened Community Fridge and Pantry on May 1, 2021. The name was later changed to Pantry AT 219.
Pantry AT 219 serve the immediate and surrounding neighborhood, making it possible for community members to both donate and access food freely.
Our motto “We do it for the least of these.’”
Where It All Began
KBIM Outreach has a long-standing commitment to supporting the local community. Since its founding in 2011, KBIM has assisted thousands of individuals each year through its outreach arm Gospel Mission, by providing essential resources such as food, clothing, and furniture. Our dedication has consistently made a positive impact, particularly for those living in Bridgeport who are at or below the poverty line. On a weekly basis, people visited KBIM for our bread distribution. We distributed bread and pastries received from local bakeries.
Prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, KBIM organized an annual community day event. To ensure a safe and controlled environment for attendees, the organization secured a permit to close off the block at 219 James Street. This summer event became a treasured tradition, drawing more than 700 people each year. The festivities were not only enjoyable and free but also fostered a sense of togetherness and support among the local residents.
Event Highlights
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Distribution of back-to-school supplies
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Provision of furniture and housewares
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Access to educational services
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Care packages for attendees
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Bomba Socks
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Food off the grill
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Breast cancer screenings, offered by St. Vincent and Bridgeport Hospital
