@ Florida St & 4th Ave

Step By Step started the Family Support Center in 2019 to bring opportunities and resources to West Side families. In Spring of 2022, they moved the operation to its own building across the street from Risen City Church.

Katie Bonham, the Director of the Center shares that while the food pantry has been open longer, less neighbors are aware of what else is offered here and how accessible it is.

“People are actually really shocked at how easy it is. We operate on trust,” Katie said.

The center is easy to use and doesn’t require ID or proof of household size—all that’s required is about 5 minutes to complete an intake form. Then, families are set for life to walk in during regular hours. As well as access to weekly food pantry, hygiene, and baby product bags, neighbors can do laundry loads, pick out clothes from their closet, and get a hot shower throughout the week.

“We have been told we have the hottest showers on the West Side!”

They also have computers and a printer with assistance on hand.

“If someone [needs help with computers], we will help them—read the information to them or help them navigate online.”

This Spring and Fall, the Center will host more resource fairs focused on physical and mental health. In April, the FSC will celebrate how much it has brought to the neighborhood in its first year.

As they expand, the FSC hopes to host classes twice per month with topics such as resume building and parenting. The Center thrives on donations and partnerships. If you’re interested in partnering with resources, classes, or have donations, email Katie Bonham (KBonham@StepByStepWV.org).