 Church World Service (CWS)
Festival of Sharing
The world is ever-changing, yet for almost 40 years, the Festival of Sharing has offered help and hope to our neighbors here at home and around the world through thoughtfully assembled kits for Church World Service (CWS.) During that time, we have endured changes–big and small. As we think back to the early days when Mel West formed the Festival of Sharing Ohio with help from a small group of United Methodist Churches, we are reminded that even through changes, God has continued to use this ministry to do new things and bless others.
Over the years, the festival has grown into a state-wide event bringing churches of all denominations together. These dedicated congregations have continuously blessed others each year through the kits they make. In the midst of change, there is one thing we know will always remain–our excitement and commitment to being in partnership with anyone who feels called to support the Festival of Sharing. After all, our volunteers are at the heart of what we do.
In the spirit of change, we are excited to share two new partnerships this year:
A NEW LOCATION - Since 2007, Otterbein University has been our home. As a dedicated partner for over 10 years, we are grateful for the blessing they have been to the Festival of Sharing. As we continue to expand, we are excited about our new partnership. This year the Festival of Sharing will be held on September 30th at our new location, Gender Road Christian Church in Canal Winchester. Most of the kit drop off locations will open soon after Labor Day and will be open through September 22, 2023. Find a drop-off location near you at fosohio.org/kit-depots.
A NEW KIT - UMCOR and Church World Service have teamed together to help end period poverty here in the United States. Through our new kit, the Period Pack (menstrual hygiene kit) you can share your love with others while being an even greater blessing to individuals lacking access to necessary feminine care supplies like sanitary napkins, tampons and soap.
Friends, as you look back on "all that has been” throughout the years with your ministry, for what do you give thanks?
As you look ahead to your ministry and "all that will be,” we pray that you will say "Yes” and support the Festival of Sharing.
God has the power to make all things new. And we believe the One who still says "Yes!” to us will be with the Festival of Sharing as we move together to share God's love with others.
For complete details about the Festival of Sharing including bucket/kit information and church resources, go to https://fosohio.org/
Special thanks to Gender Road Christian Church for being the new Festival of Sharing "home” as well as to our other Christian Church in Ohio drop-off depots: First Christian Church of Massillon and First Christian Church of Mansfield!!
| 
