Helping to ensure people are fed, clothed and spiritually educated is the goal of The Well Corp. Of Pennsylvania, a street ministry that provides community outreach, information and resources to the public.
The nonprofit group formed in 2018 and collaborates with 17 churches in the Monroeville, Pitcairn and Trafford areas.
This month, the group partnered with Pastor Abraham Simon and Rehoboth House of Prayer For All Nations in Monroeville to provide clothing, food and bibles to residents in Wilkinsburg.
At Christian Life Church in Trafford, the organization regularly works with Pastor Jared Parks and his wife, Lindsey Parks.
“We draw a lot of volunteers from the church,” said Don Perlinger, president of the Well Corp.
One Tuesday each month, they hold a “meal and a message,” where the public is welcome to a hot meal and groceries to take home. A diaper giveaway is also held monthly. Those in need can register with Christian Life Church and diapers are then ordered through the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank.
“We started with the idea and Lindsey really made it grow,” said CEO David Lersch.
While Lersch had a vision to start the street ministry, he credits the launch to now-retired Wabtec CEO and board member Ray Betler. Lersch reached out to Betler with his idea.
“He helped with funds to get started and helped set us up with the nonprofit and tax ID,” Lersch said.
The organization has a storage facility in Monroeville used for furniture and appliances, which are obtained through donations.
“We inspect all furniture to ensure it’s suitable,” said Sheyenne Baker, assistant director of children’s programs. “Anyone in need is welcome to come down to the storage unit.”
On the second Thursday of the month, “Veterans Serving the Community” meetings are held at Christian Life Church in Trafford. The next program will be March 14.
According to Treasurer Diane Lersch, all veterans and their spouses are welcome. “It is a support group, and we pray,” she said, adding that they are always looking to help others.
“We were able to put a stair lift in for a disabled veteran,” chief director Debbie Wolski said, noting the project was completed with the help of parishioner Judy Woods.
“The Well is a small entity that brings people together,” Baker said. “It’s about the unity of working together.”
The goal to help others runs deep throughout the group.
“It’s the thought that we are really helping people that makes the difference,” vice president Rod Weishorn said.
“Everybody’s soul matters,” added member Betsy Weishorn.
There will be a community outreach event March 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. Well Corp. will coordinate with Pastor Bob Morgan from Pitcairn Assembly of God, 520 Wall Ave.
