Westside Free Store Ministries
The Westside Free Store Ministries (WSFM) is an ecumenical, faith-based, 501(c)(3) charitable organization designed to share resources, build relationship and create community on Columbus’s west side. Through the volunteer effort and generosity of many people, churches and organizations, the WSFM serves thousands of people in need each year.

Since opening our doors in August, 2004, we have provided a safe haven within the community. We have become known as a place where needs are met, hospitality offered and meaningful relationships formed in the name of Jesus Christ. Program and services offered by the Westside Free Store Ministries include the Westside Free Store, Sarah’s Kitchen, and ROCK on the Hill. A variety of educational programs are scheduled to be introduced in 2010 with subject including parenting, budgeting, creating healthy meals, and credit repair.

Westside Free Store
The simple premise of the Westside Free Store is those in need can shop for free as a result of the generosity of others. Material donations (clothing and small household items) are organized and made available to all who visit our Free Store. There are no income or residency requirements. Based on the number of people in a household, each shopper is allowed a generous number of items per month.

The Free Store’s shoppers include men, women and children representing all nationalities who make Central Ohio their home. The Free Store is located in the basement of Westgate United Methodist Church on the west side of Columbus, in the historical Hilltop community, at 61 South Powell Avenue.

Sarah’s Kitchen
With support of local merchants, pastries and hot and cold beverages are available in the Free Store’s fellowship hall while shoppers prepare to shop.

ROCK on the Hill
Reaching Out to Christ’s Kids
ROCK is a faith-based, arts-emphasis after-school ministry which operates as an outpost ministry at 2500 W. Broad Street in a storefront facility. ROCK is open and free to children grades one through five on Wednesday afternoons from 4 to 6 pm. ROCK currently ministers to 29 children, many from the immediate neighborhood, but from six different elementary schools. Columbus Public Schools provides bus transportation from a select number of elementary schools. Each session of ROCK includes a healthy snack, a Bible story, an arts project (crafts, drama, music, etc.) and free time for games, play or help with homework. Like the Free Store, ROCK is operated by volunteers and is a ‘safe sanctuary’.