Who We Are

Gulf Coast Community Ministries opened in 2003, as part of First Baptist Church, Gulfport, Mississippi. Services included a food pantry, Free Clinic, and ESL classes (English as a Second Language). The organization was incorporated as a 501(c)3 in 2004.

Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed the church buildings in August 2005, and the programs were closed until June of 2007. It reopened with the understanding that the needs that existed before the hurricane were amplified tremendously after the storm, and there was a renewed motivation and commitment to once again meet needs in the community. Since that time, Gulf Coast Community Ministries has grown into an effective nonprofit organization that offers a food pantry, Free Clinic, HPRP (Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program), services to the homeless, and a clothes closet.

All of this is done by compassionate volunteers, who donated over 3,700 hours of time in 2009. Partnerships with individuals, churches, businesses, and other groups on the coast maximize the resources we have.

The most important story is the hope and encouragement that is given day to day to individuals and families facing stressful circumstances such as unemployment, a lack of health insurance, or being homeless. We often hear, "I don't know what I would have done without you. Thank you for your help!"

Please join us as we care for our community!