Church on the Rock distributing food, clothing during 'Takin' It to the Streets'

PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- As part of its Takin' It to the Streets campaign, Church on the Rock in Pascagoula is inviting anyone who needs clothing to come out Saturday to pick up needed items.

Usually a one-day event, the church this year orchestrated a full week of community and charity events.

Church on the Rock volunteers unload 6,500 pounds of food to be distributed as part of the annual Takin' It to the Streets campaign Jan. 23, 2014.

Tonight, church volunteered unloaded and sorted 6,500 pounds of meat, canned goods and other foods to be distributed throughout Jackson County and beyond.

The food is expected to help about 110 families, organizers said.

The church regularly feeds 30 to 35 families each month as part of its ministry, associate Pastor John Harry said, but for this special outreach event, the church purchased thousands of pounds of food from the Bay Area Food Bank at wholesale prices.

"We had our members fill out forms for people they knew needed food, and they will be the ones actually delivering the food," he said. "It's a way to engage the congregation."

During the week of giving, which also included work for other non-profits and a litter pickup event, the congregation has adopted a "It's time to stop coming to church and time to start being the church" motto.

The church will have its doors open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for the clothing giveaway Saturday.