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Barnabas Ministry

The Barnabas Ministry will be collecting items (new or gently used) for local substance abuse programs.

Mission

Filled with the love of Christ, we focus on the needs of others, serving the hurting, the anxious, and the discouraged suffering from substance abuse & addiction.

Ministry Services

We collect clothing, shoes, outerwear, books, CDs, movies, hygiene items, puzzles, games, and other much-needed items for people participating in recovery programs.
We purchase new materials and resources for programs the church has elected to support.
We make our facilities and meeting spaces available to out-patient recovery groups. (When the new church is built).
We pray for people who are hurting and struggling with addictions.

2025 Collection schedule:

January: Men's & women's sweaters *

February: New toiletries (body wash, shampoo, conditioner, shaving supplies, deodorant, dental care supplies, tissues, paper towels, toilet paper

March: Men's & women's hoodies, raincoats, umbrellas, boots, light jackets, ball caps *

April: Sudoku, crosswords, coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, markers *

May: Men's & women's T-shirts, jeans, shorts *

June: Men & women's summer clothing & shoes (no swim suits) *

July: New & gently used books, ball caps, sun hats, new underwear (men & women's) *

August: Puzzles, books, playing cards, chess, checkers *

September: men's & women's sweatshirts, sweatpants, athletic wear

October: men's & women's sweaters, pajamas, robes & slippers, new underwear *

November: men's & women's jackets, vests, boots, shoes *

December: men's & women's scarves, gloves, mittens, hats, new underwear *

* There is a need for paper towels and toilet paper every month, as these are not supplied.

There will be a collection box in the chapel for any current month items you wish to donate. Thanks for your consideration!

Ruth's Way for Women

The Barnabas Ministry is a living expression of Christ’s love in action. Through this ministry, First Baptist Church of Wakefield supports Ruth’s Way for Women, a nonprofit faith-based organization that provides sober housing and dedicated recovery support for women overcoming addiction to drugs or alcohol. These women are taking bold steps toward a new life — and you can walk alongside them.

Ruth’s Way offers more than a safe place to live — it provides hope, healing, mentorship, and purpose. With homes in Wakefield and Lynn, the organization offers certified sober living environments (MASH-certified) where women can learn, practice, and apply healthy life skills free from substances. Through personalized recovery coaching, spiritual encouragement, and practical training, Ruth’s Way helps women rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into society with dignity and confidence.

Our church supports Ruth’s Way through essential donations, such as gently used clothing, paper towels, and toilet paper, and by encouraging volunteer participation in areas like music, ministry, admin tasks, and property upkeep. Right now, their greatest need is financial support, especially to help fund scholarships that cover program costs for women in recovery.

You can make a difference! Here’s how to get involved:

Donate new or gently used items: Drop them off at First Baptist Church of Wakefield (8 Lafayette Street, Wakefield, MA 01880) according to our monthly collection calendar.

Gift cards are welcome: TJX, Marshalls, and Kohl’s gift cards can be delivered or mailed to the church (Attn: Barnabas Ministry – Ruth’s Way).

Volunteer your time and talents: Help support these women through your service in ministry, events, or day-to-day operations.

Join us for special events: Watch our announcements for details about an upcoming class led by Nicole, Director of Ruth’s Way, on Saturday, June 21, at First Baptist Church.

Be part of this powerful journey of renewal. Together, as a church and community, we can bring light, support, and a fresh start to women who are ready for transformation.

For more information or to donate, please contact Elaine Pappas at epappas12@gmail.com, or reach out directly to Ruth’s Way by phone at (857) 361-9913, by email at ruthswayforwomen@gmail.com, or through the contact form on their website:
ruthsway.solutions/connect

Barnabas Ministry – Love, Serve, Restore.