LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — A Lancaster County nonprofit is celebrating a major milestone this year, as it continues to serve its community in countless ways.
The Factory Ministries has served the eastern part of Lancaster County for 30 years.
“The question of ‘what do we need’ has always been our driver," said Adam Nagle, executive director of The Factory Ministries.
The story started in 1994 when a few churches joined together to create a youth center in an old sewing factory. Since then, the building has changed, but the mission remains the same.
“We really believe [that] to solve any problem in our community it takes all of us," said Nagle.
The Factory Ministries now operates out of a former elementary school building in Paradise Township.
It acts as a community hub, connecting those in poverty with the help they need, from transitional housing and food to domestic violence resources and early learning assistance.
“We define poverty as being under-resourced," Nagle explained. "We look at six key areas; you can be under-resourced emotionally, relationally, physically, intellectually, spiritually and then financially [too].”
Nagle says the need for these services has always been there, but it's increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The individuals facing homelessness have increased exponentially year after year, and the shelters across the county are full," explained Nagle.
Three decades later, The Factory is needed by its community more than ever. Nagle says it's the community that keeps the wheels turning.
“It’s a real testament, as I look backward, and we’re here 30 years later, because of the community," said Nagle.
For example, the shelves at The Factory's food pantry stay stocked because of donations, and the nonprofit builds its services around feedback from those who utilize them.
“We are a vessel that the community can come together, rally around and care for one another [at]," said Ellie Green, The Factory Ministries' communications director.
It's a team effort that is only expected to get stronger.
“That’s why I’m so excited about the next 30 years. [We are going to be] continuing that collaboration and caring for one another," said Green. "I think incredible things can be done."