Holiday Help

Whether you'd like to serve or need support, we'll help you take the next step.

Give HelpAccess Help

Love Like Jesus

The Gospel calls us to love our neighbors, care for those in need, and generously share what God has given us. During the holiday season, we have a special opportunity to put that love into action by coming alongside our neighbors, friends, and families who may be facing a difficult season.

One of our goals at The River Church is to reflect the love and care of Jesus Christ. Listed below are ways we are able to help love and care for our communities this holiday season.

Ways You Can Help

Food Pantry

DONATE A TURKEY
During the holidays we try to bless families above and beyond standard food packages by providing turkeys for Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you'd like to donate a turkey please bring them to the following locations:
The River Holly Community Center - Drop off on November 18 from 6p-8p.
The River Waterford - Drop off Wednesday-Friday from 9a-4p through November 20.
STOCK, PREP, AND DISTRIBUTION
Serve families by working in the food pantry organizing and stocking shelves, preparing packages for families to take home, or by distributing packages on distribution days. 

If you would like to serve in the food pantry or want to donate but are unable to drop off at the days/times provided, email Katrina at katrina@theriverchurch.cc.

Email Katrina

Thanksgiving at the Jail

For the last several years we've had the privilege of spending Thanksgiving morning with those within the Genesee County Jail. As well as share the Gospel, we're also able to bless both the inmates, and the staff with Thanksgiving dinner, and offer homemade pies to every Sheriff Deputy on duty. 

In order to feed everyone we need volunteers to cook turkeys and/or bake pies! If cooking and baking aren't on your list of spiritual gifts, you can apply to join us Thanksgiving morning as we enter into the facility to pray and share the Gospel. 

Turkey and/or Pie Donation Sign-UpGenesee County Jail Serving Application

Baby Pantry

They say "it takes a village to raise a child" and part of that village is supporting moms and dads as they care for their little ones! The Baby Pantry provides essential items such as clothing, diapers, wipes, toys, and supplies for families in need. We’re currently accepting donations of clothing, diapers, and wipes. To donate, simply bring your items to the Baby Pantry during our hours of operation. 

Tuesdays | 6p-8p
The River Walled Lake

Provide Extra Support for a Child or Family

The Christmas season has a beautiful way of stirring our hearts toward generosity and giving. Oftentimes families and Growth Communities ask, "How can we go above and beyond what we're regularly doing to help?" Every family's needs are different, and sometimes those needs extend beyond the resources available through our existing ministries and community partners. From Christmas gifts for teenagers to specifically sized clothing and other essentials, there are opportunities to make a meaningful difference. If you'd like to support a child or family and their unique need(s), please email Grant at ggrimes@theriverchurch.cc and together you'll choose how you can best help "above and beyond" this Christmas.

Email Grant

Toys for Tots

The River Church serves as the Toys for Tots coordinating partner for North Oakland County. We are thankful for the privilege to come alongside families during the Christmas season by providing toys for children and sharing the hope we have in Jesus Christ! Many hands are needed to be successful in this mission! Whether it's picking up toys, or organizing, bagging, or distributing them, we have several ways you can help! Interested? Email Grant at ggrimes@theriverchurch.cc.

Email Grant

How to Access Help

Toys for Tots

The River Church serves as the Toys for Tots coordinating partner for North Oakland County. We are thankful for the privilege to come alongside families during the Christmas season by providing toys for children and sharing the hope we have in Jesus Christ! To request toys, fill out the application linked below. 

Toys for Tots Recipient Application

Food Assistance

The cost of groceries has increased significantly, and for many, putting dinner on the table has become an overwhelming weight. We have partnered with Gleaners Community Food Bank to provide food assistance to those in need. Distribution takes place from 9a-10a the first and third Saturday in November and December. Receive food packages at the following locations:

The River Holly: 8393 E. Holly Rd. Holly, MI 48442
The River Waterford: 3411 Airport Rd. Waterford, MI 48329

Clothing, Outerwear, and Household Essentials

As seasons change, children grow, and everyday items need replaced, our desire is to help meet the needs of those in our communities. The River Church has partnered with Oakland HOPE to supply families with these essentials. If you or someone you know is in need, email us directly and we will work with you to secure all needed items. All inquires should be sent to Katrina at katrina@theriverchurch.cc.
Oakland HOPE
20 E. Walton Blvd.
Pontiac, MI 48340
Email Katrina

Infant and Toddler Necessities

They say "it takes a village to raise a child" and part of that village is support for mom and dad! The Baby Pantry provides essential items such as clothing, diapers, wipes, toys, and supplies for families in need. Whether you’re preparing for a new arrival or currently caring for a little one, we’re here to help. The Baby Pantry is open Tuesday evenings from 6p-8p. If you have further questions regarding support from the baby pantry, email Patrick at pbicknell@theriverchurch.cc.

Email Patrick

Grief Support

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS SUPPORT GROUP
Grief hits harder around the holidays. Traditions have changed, social events can become draining, and sights, songs, and even smells can trigger emotions. Surviving the Holidays is an event where you'll meet people who will listen, share helpful insights and advice, and provide you with practical ideas on how to navigate the season.
Surviving the Holidays
November 19 | 6p
The River Waterford
WE REMEMBER YOURS CHRISTMAS GATHERING
We Remember Yours is a gathering focused on celebrating the holiday season while honoring the lives of loved ones we’ve lost. While they may not be with us physically this Christmas, we'll remember their smiles through a photo presentation and you will receive an ornament in honor of their legacy. We’ll pray together, focus on the comfort we have through Christ, and lean on one another as we mourn this holiday season. 
We Remember Yours
December 13 | 6p
The River Grand Blanc
Photo Submission + Ornament Request
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