Bridgeport Presbyterian Church

The Children's Health Pantry began in 2002, this ministry of the Bridgeport Presbyterian Church provides basic health care kits to agencies that distribute them to children in need.  When the local Department of Health and Human Resources noticed an increase in child protective service cases because of unhealthy conditions, the DHHR contacted the Bridgeport Presbyterian Church for help. By providing kits containing personal hygiene items, household cleaning materials and lice eradication supplies, the Children's Health Pantry helps families remanin intact by creating a better living environment for their children. Kits are also provided for emergency needs.

Funded by the Bridgeport Presbyterian Church and grants from the Presbyterian Church U.S.A., the Sacred Heart Children's Center Inc., as well as donations from individuals, other churches and civic organizations, the Children's Health Pantry distributed over 1,000 kits in 2008.

Also in 2008 the pantry recieved a Thank Offering grant from Presbyterian Women U.S.A., for a companion ministry, A New Book for Every Child. In addition to the personal care kits, children up to age 18 may also receive age-appropriate books of their own.