On May 16, a devastating tornado swept through North Saint Louis, including the Fountain Park neighborhood, causing widespread damage and heartbreaking loss. Among the lives lost was that of Pat Penelton, a strong and faithful leader at Centennial Christian Church, who had just completed serving at the church’s weekly meal ministry when the storm struck. Her passing left a deep void—not only in the hearts of those who knew her, but also in the vital ministry she so lovingly carried out.
Though the church building sustained significant damage and remains inaccessible, the need for nourishment—both physical and spiritual—in the Fountain Park community has not gone away. In the wake of this tragedy, Isaiah 58 Ministries stepped in to help continue Pat’s legacy by coordinating efforts to ensure the neighborhood continues to receive the meals they depend on.
Since June, faith communities from across the St. Louis region have answered the call, faithfully preparing and delivering 50 nutritious meals on most Wednesdays and Fridays to residents in need. We are deeply grateful for the compassion and generosity of the following churches and organizations: Affton Christian Church, Community Christian Church, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Ladue Chapel Presbyterian Church, St. Margaret of Scotland Parish, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Southminster Presbyterian Church, and Webster Groves Christian Church.
Their faithful witness and willing hearts have made it possible for us to honor Pat’s legacy and provide a continued presence of care and compassion in Fountain Park.
We are now inviting additional groups to join us in this important effort as we continue the feeding ministry into the fall and winter months.
Beginning September 1st, we will need volunteers to provide 50 individually packaged meals on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays through December 31, 2025.
If your church, organization, or small group would like to participate, you can sign up through our Sign-Up Genius link here.
For more information or to discuss how you can help, please contact Rev. Brenda Booth, Executive Director, at 314-776-1410 or via work cell at 314-200-5304.
Together, we can continue feeding bodies and lifting spirits—one meal at a time.