Small Start Leads to Years of Service
In 1986, based on a five-year study, Polk County was identified at 1 of 200 counties in North Carolina with the greatest amount of poverty per capita. The need was immediate, the imperative clear.

In 1991, a small number of people in the community identified unmet needs; knew they could be addressed; acted on it; and made it a reality.  We especially want to recognize the Columbus United Methodist Church.  Although small in number, they are mighty in the impact they have had in Polk County. We want to recognized that initial boost they gave us. Without their generosity in our early growth, we surely would not be able to accomplish all we are doing today.

Tony Sayer, Columbus Methodist Church's minister (and our present board president) had just started his tenure in 1991. He believed that a successful church must have a local mission.  the size of the congregation is measured by the size of their hearts rather than the size of the membership. So, this small church took on a mighty mission.  Through his leadership, the church offered space for the beginnings of Thermal Belt Outreach.

The office and food pantry were located in what is now the primary Sunday school room at the church. The church covered all expenses for the space, except for the telephone service. The Church Women United gave an initial grant of $125 to provide that service. Furnishings and shelving for the Columbus area food pantry were donated from various sources.  These beginning years were a critical jumpstart for Outreach ministry.  With the love and support of the Columbus United Methodist Church, we were up and running!