Since March 6, congregations, community groups, civic organizations and individuals from the greater Elkins area have united to form Common Ground Cafe. Its mission is to serve a free lunch every Saturday at Woodford Memorial United Methodist Church.
Common Ground Cafe promises every guest a safe environment and a nutritious meal. No one will be asked to sign a guest list, complete an application or meet eligibility requirements. All they have to do is walk through the door. A Common Ground organizer said, "If you need a meal, we will serve you a meal."
The participating congregations, community groups, civic organizations and individuals take turns serving the Saturday meal.
Although the groups seek to provide a delicious meal that is easy to prepare, one never knows what surprises await guests.
"Common Ground volunteers are the best. They treasure every opportunity to make a difference in another person's life. They prepare the food, serve the food and affirm our guest's God-given dignity," said Bill Calhoun.
According to David Mace, Common Ground coordinator for Woodford Memorial, "I visit the cafe on most Saturdays. Our guests are very friendly and very appreciative."
The sponsors of Common Ground Cafe decided to serve a lunch every Saturday in order to benefit those who depend upon the Randolph County Senior Center as well as Randolph County students who receive reduced and free lunches.
Dr. Robert McCutcheon, president of the Common Ground Cafe and a member of Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church, said, "We also want to support those who are often forced to choose between food, rent and medicine."
On a recent Saturday, 65 guests enjoyed a free and nutritious meal.
While the cafe is enjoying the gracious support of local congregations, civic groups, student groups and individuals, several members from the business community are also lending their support. During the approaching holidays, Common Ground anticipates members of the business community to collect non-perishable food.
"Often, our guests have a special need, and with food immediately at hand, we are able to immediately meet their need," an official said.
Common Ground Cafe is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Woodford Memorial United Methodist Church located at 113 First St. in Elkins. For more information, call Woodford Memorial at 304-614-7072.
Sponsors for the Common Ground Cafe include: Angie's Group, Beverly United Methodist Church, Beverly United Methodist Youth, Coffman Chapel United Methodist Church, Davis & Elkins College students with Dr. Robert McCutcheon as chaplain, Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church, Elkins Church of the Brethren, First Baptist Church, GFWC Women's Club of Elkins International Affair Department with Diana Kerr as chairwoman, Grace Episcopal Church, Kathy's Group, The Refuge Church, St. Brendan Catholic Church, Seventh Day Adventist Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, Wayside United Methodist Church and Woodford Memorial United Methodist Church.
