WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — In a community-wide effort rooted in service, Protestant Campus Ministry at West Liberty University is helping ensure elementary students at West Liberty Elementary School have access to reliable weekend meals. Working alongside The House of the Carpenter, United Way, and several local churches and organizations, the ministry coordinates a robust partnership that prepares and distributes food bags each week for children in need.
Each week, volunteers pack 15–20 weekend backpacks, supporting 15–20 students and families identified through the school’s Guidance Office and Principal. Every backpack includes two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners, two pieces of fresh fruit, and snacks, with additional items provided around holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Student involvement plays a vital role in keeping the initiative running smoothly. WLU student groups regularly volunteer to sort, organize, and pack the meal bags. The West Liberty Federated Church serves as the central hub for storage and packaging, providing space and support year-round. The West Liberty Lions Club delivers the meal bags to West Liberty Elementary, while Short Creek United Methodist Church contributes with sorting help and ongoing donations.
Guiding the student volunteers is Abigail Farnsworth, a senior social work major and Protestant Campus Ministry’s office assistant. Farnsworth helps coordinate schedules, organize student teams, and ensure the weekly packing process stays efficient and consistent.
“As the Director of Protestant Campus Ministry, I look to keep the work we do rooted in the Christian call to serve others,” said Diann Nickerson, Director of Protestant Campus Ministry. “I try to lead by the example Jesus set in Matthew 25, which encourages us to feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, and care for those in need. Bringing together these groups to support our neighbors is a blessing we get to experience every week.”
The weekend meals initiative began when Nickerson, then serving as a part-time pastor at the West Liberty Federated Church, was approached by former House of the Carpenter Director Mike Linger to partner on a grant expanding access to weekend food support for elementary students. This year marks the second year of WLU’s participation in the program.
The initiative continues to grow. The House of the Carpenter plans to expand the program into middle schools as well as additional schools in Marshall County, reflecting the increasing need throughout the region.
For more information about Protestant Campus Ministry or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, contact:
Diann Nickerson
Director, Protestant Campus Ministry
diann.nickerson@westliberty.edu | 304-312-0347
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.
Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu
