What began with Erica’s memories of childhood has grown into a ministry that now touches two communities. Through coats, food and genuine care, the Shelbyville Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to reach neighbors with practical help and the love of Christ.
“I know what it’s like to not have much,” she said.
Her grandmother—who never owned a coat—remains a lasting influence on her heart for service.
“Now that my husband Daniel and I have been so blest, we want to be able to help those that are less fortunate. We also want to instill this value in our children, Lexia and Ryan.”
In 2024, Erica turned that conviction into action by launching the first Keep Our Neighbors Warm event at the Shelbyville Seventh-day Adventist Church. With a small group of volunteers, she set out coats, scarves, gloves, boots and other winter clothing so anyone in need could take items free of charge.
The need in Shelbyville, Indiana is significant. The city’s 17.3 percent poverty rate is notably higher than the state’s average of 12.3 percent. The outreach quickly made a difference, serving more than 78 individuals that first year.
This year, the effort expanded. Donations increased, and more volunteers stepped forward. “This year we received over $800.00 in monetary donations and many more coat donations than last year,” she said.
The event began in the Shelbyville church parking lot, where tables, tents and organized bins of winter clothing were set out for anyone who stopped by. Later in the day, volunteers packed everything up and moved the entire setup to Franklin, a neighboring town, to continue serving.
Across both locations, well over 178 individuals and families received coats, shoes, scarves, blankets and hygiene items.
One volunteer shared how meaningful the day can be. “Seeing someone receive a coat and the look on their face when you tell them that it’s free, it fills your heart with such joy,” they said.
Another expressed appreciation for how the event opens doors for connection. “This helps people get to know us and our church better,” the volunteer said. “They can see that we are regular people just trying to spread God’s love and bless them with something they need. We aren’t trying to force our beliefs on them, but we do have literature out if they are curious or have questions.”
The outreach extends beyond the event day. Individuals who contact the church afterward can still receive coats from the remaining supply.
Erica has also established a blessing box outside the church entrance to make food available for anyone who needs it. “Food is an ongoing need,” she said. “We need to be the hands and feet of Jesus.”
What began with Erica’s memories of childhood has grown into a ministry that now touches two communities. Through coats, food and genuine care, the Shelbyville Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to reach neighbors with practical help and the love of Christ.
Susan Jergovich has been a member of the Shelbyville Church since 2013 and is involved in communication and Sabbath School ministries.
