Community Outreach
Serving Kingston with compassion, partnership, and a commitment to justice for all.
Our Commitment to Kingston
Putting our faith into action through meaningful community service
At Zion United Church, we believe that faith must be lived — not only in what we say on Sunday mornings, but in how we serve our neighbours throughout the week. Our outreach ministries are an expression of our core values: compassion for the vulnerable, justice for the marginalized, and hospitality for all who seek connection and support.
For decades, Zion has been an active partner in Kingston's social service landscape, working alongside local organizations to address food insecurity, homelessness, mental health challenges, and environmental sustainability. We are deeply proud of the relationships we have built and the tangible impact our congregation continues to make in the lives of our neighbours.
Food Security Programs
Food insecurity is a growing challenge in Kingston, and Zion United Church is committed to being part of the solution. Our food-related ministries provide nourishment, dignity, and community to those who need it most.
Community Meals: On a monthly basis, our volunteers prepare and serve a free, hot meal in our church hall. These meals are open to absolutely everyone — no questions asked. Beyond providing nutritious food, these gatherings offer a welcoming space where people can connect, rest, and be treated with dignity.
Monthly Food Drives: We partner with the Kingston Food Bank and Partners in Mission Food Bank to collect non-perishable food items. Congregation members and community neighbours contribute generously, and our youth group often leads special food drive campaigns during Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
Emergency Food Assistance: For individuals and families experiencing sudden food needs, our church maintains a small emergency pantry. Contact the church office for confidential assistance.
Community Space
Our church building is more than a place of worship — it's a community hub. Our fellowship hall and meeting rooms are available for community groups, support organizations, and neighbourhood gatherings. We believe that a church building should serve its community seven days a week, not just on Sundays.
Groups that regularly use our space include:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) — Weekly support meetings
- Girl Guides & Scouts — Youth development programs
- Community Support Groups — Various organizations
- Neighbourhood Associations — Community meetings
Interested in using our space? Contact us for availability and arrangements.
Our Community Partners
Together we accomplish more than any one organization can alone
United Way Kingston
As a partner of United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington, we support coordinated community development and social service delivery that improves lives across our region.
Partners in Mission Food Bank
We work closely with Partners in Mission Food Bank to collect, distribute, and advocate for food security resources that serve Kingston's most vulnerable individuals and families.
Inn from the Cold
Supporting Kingston's emergency shelter services, we contribute volunteer hours and resources to ensure that no person in our community is left without a warm, safe place during harsh winter months.
Kingston Presbytery & Region
As part of the United Church of Canada's regional structure, we collaborate with neighbouring congregations on shared ministry, training, and mission projects that extend our impact beyond Pine Street.
Volunteer With Us
Whether you have an hour a month or a few hours a week, your time and talents can make a real difference in someone's life. Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help us serve Kingston with love.
Get Involved Today
Social Justice
Speaking truth to power and standing alongside those who are marginalized
Affordable Housing
Zion advocates for affordable and accessible housing in Kingston, supporting local initiatives that address homelessness and housing instability. We believe that safe, stable housing is a fundamental human right.
Reconciliation
As part of the United Church of Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, we educate ourselves about the history and ongoing impacts of colonialism. We participate in learning circles, invite Indigenous speakers, and support the United Church's apologies and reparative actions.
Environmental Stewardship
Caring for creation is a matter of faith. Our congregation supports environmental advocacy, reduced energy consumption in our building, and community clean-up initiatives. We take seriously our responsibility to be stewards of the earth for future generations.