Introduction to Outreach Ministries at St. Philip's Church in the Highlands
At St. Philip’s Church in the Highlands, our outreach ministries embody our mission to serve communities near and far, guided by faith and a commitment to serving others. Our efforts reach locally—supporting neighbors in Peekskill, Philipstown, and Beacon—regionally, throughout the Hudson Valley, and globally, supporting efforts to serve the Pokot community in Kenya.
Mission Statement of the Outreach Committee
The Outreach Committee of St. Philip's Church in the Highlands encourages and organizes parishioners to identify and serve communities in need, moved by God’s grace and guided by the Holy Spirit. We recognize the commitment of every volunteer, who shares their time, talents, and presence to bring hope to individuals where it is often in short supply, as a reflection of our shared faith fostered by our St. Philip’s Church community.
Jan Peek Shelter Ministry
ST. PHILIP’S PARISHIONERS PREPARE ENCHILADA CASSEROLES
Jan Peek House Shelter is a Peekskill-based 24-hour, year-round shelter for single adult men and women, serving an average of 35 residents and temporary overnight guests. Operated by CHHOP, the shelter provides case management services to help clients develop independent living plans focusing on housing and supportive services.
Our Contribution: Parishioners from St. Philip’s Church prepare and serve dinner on the third Monday of every month. Everyone is welcome to contribute by preparing enchilada casseroles or serving onsite. This vibrant ministry involves individuals and families from throughout our church community. Be on the lookout for parish events where we prep casseroles for Jan Peek and enjoy time together as a church community.
As we look to deepen our relationship with CHHOP and Jan Peek House Shelter, we invite all parishioners to join this meaningful effort to make a difference in our local community.
Contacts: Terri Akbas and Chuck Linsmeier
Philipstown Food Pantry Ministry
The Philipstown Food Pantry, housed at Philipstown Presbyterian Church in Cold Spring, plays a vital role in addressing hunger in the Garrison, Cold Spring, and Philipstown community. The pantry accepts donations on Fridays from 12 noon to 1pm and Saturdays from 8:30am to 10am, with food distributions occurring later on Saturday mornings.
Our Contribution: St. Philip’s supports this ministry by collecting donations in designated boxes on the Parish House porch and in the church narthex. Parishioners can also contribute by shopping online via Instacart, with groceries delivered directly from Foodtown in Cold Spring to the pantry. Detailed instructions for Instacart are available for those interested in this convenient option.
In addition to ongoing support, the Outreach Committee sponsors multiple coffee hour food drives annually to gather essential items for the pantry. These events are held at key times during the year, bringing additional opportunities to help neighbors in need.
Contacts: Peg Moran and Sue MacLean
Hedgewood Senior Center Ministry
CHristmas CAROLING WITH hedgewood residents
Since 1998, St. Philip’s Church has led a worship ministry at the Hedgewood Assisted Living Facility in Beacon, which serves adults with disabilities.
Our Contribution: Twice a month, parishioners lead Sunday worship services, bringing Christ’s gospel and the renewing elements of bread and wine in the Eucharist to those in spiritual and physical need.
In addition to worship services, St. Philip’s supports Hedgewood residents through annual Christmas gift offerings. Parishioners donate essential clothing and care items to brighten the holidays for residents. Contributions also come from St. Philip’s Church Nursery School and are provided at other times throughout the year as needs arise.
Contact(s): Joe Plummer for Sunday services and Sue MacLean for Christmas gift offerings
Fellowship, friends, and fun
Rural and Migrant Ministry
Rural and Migrant Ministry (RMM), based in Cornwall on Hudson, NY, is a statewide organization dedicated to advocating for and empowering New York’s rural and migrant farm workers. For over 40 years, RMM has addressed systemic injustices, focusing on youth leadership, education, and efforts to change outdated New York State labor laws that excluded farm workers. The organization provides critical support to farm workers and their families, working tirelessly to create a more equitable rural New York State.
Our Contribution: St. Philip’s Church is proud to partner with RMM in this vital mission. Parishioners volunteer their time by participating in workdays at the RMM campus, assisting with keeping the grounds functional and accessible, bringing food, and assisting with events that support bringing social services to our migrant neighbors.
Construction
Partnership with St. James Church and School, Lelan, Kenya
St. Philip’s Church is committed to fostering global connections that bring God’s love to life. Since 2021, we’ve partnered with St. James Parish and School in Lelan, Kenya, to support initiatives that empower communities and nurture future generations.
The 2021 Sustainable Development Goals Grant
In 2021, St. Philip’s secured a $15,000 grant from the Episcopal Diocese of New York to build two dormitories at St. James School. These dormitories provide safe boarding for 100-200 girls in grades 5-8, promoting education and brighter futures. This collaboration bridges two churches across continents, strengthening our bonds through prayer, fellowship, and mutual learning.
The 2024/2025 Women’s Economic Empowerment Project
Building on this partnership, we launched the Women’s Economic Empowerment Project to support 50 women from the Chemondin Women’s Group. Starting within a month of grant receipt, the project will provide tools and training for poultry farming.
The Pokot women, vital to their community’s pastoralist and farming life, face challenges such as limited access to resources and markets. This project empowers them to achieve financial independence and improve food security, creating a sustainable model for growth and resilience.
Contact: Terri Akbas
