At The Empowerment Center, we believe in the power of targeted, compassionate action to change lives. Our programs are designed to address immediate needs while fostering long-term empowerment and community resilience. From nourishing bodies to nurturing minds, each initiative plays a crucial role in our mission to build a stronger Rockford.
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in our community, and we're committed to ensuring that no one goes hungry. Our regular food distributions provide essential nourishment to families and individuals in need, helping to alleviate one of life's most basic concerns.
Every month, we partner with the Northern Illinois food bank to provide food for over 250 families in need through drive-thru food distributions.
Our block parties are a celebration of community spirit and an opportunity for neighbors to connect, share resources, and build stronger relationships. These events feature food, activities, and information about local services.
We believe it’s important to love our local community, and one way we accomplish this is through Christmas Hope For Kids! Each year, we partner with a local elementary school at each location to provide toys to kids in need. For many of these students, this is the only Christmas present they will receive.
The holiday season can be challenging for many families. Our Christmas Hope program spreads joy and relief by providing gifts, food, and essential items to those in need during this special time of year.
*While this program is managed internally, we always welcome donations and support to help make the holidays brighter for our neighbors
Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, and every child deserves the resources they need to succeed. Our Backpack Drives ensure students start the year prepared and confident, equipped with the essentials. Annually, we give out over 2300 backpacks, partnering with local schools to help provide supplies to students in need.
*Although this program is coordinated internally, we greatly appreciate donations of school supplies.
Christmas Hope
For Kids
At City First Church, we believe it’s important to love our local community, and one way we accomplish this is through Christmas Hope For Kids! Each year, we partner with a local elementary school at each location to provide toys to kids in need. For many of these students, this is the only Christmas present they will receive.
December Food
Distribution
Join us on Tuesday, December 10th at 10AM as we host our 42nd Food Distribution. We will be providing food for over 250 families. If you or someone you know is in need of food, drive-thru at City First Spring Creek to receive fresh groceries! Items are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. We suggest coming early to get in the cue. If you are interested in serving email dreamteam@cityfirst.church for more details.
There are many ways to get involved with The Empowerment Center and make a real difference in our community: