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WARREN -- A former Struthers-based ministry which has helped people in Trumbull and Mahoning counties has found a new home in downtown Warren. Behind Closed Doors Ministries opened this fall at 345 High St. SE.
Michelle Carter-Douglass, founder, said they have been at the new location since early October.
"We have transitioned from solely working on the phone operating out of our house to now working in a new office building," she said.
The ministry has held benefit dinners and back to school giveways in Hubbard and Youngstown.
She said the ministry has grown and it did not become conducive to operate out of a house.
"We wanted to find a place where people could come to. We are a ministry and social organization and want to help provide different services," Carter-Douglass said.
She said in 2024 there will be more products and services to help people in need. he ministry does a lot of community outreach such as back-to-school events, emergency food boxes, clothing giveaways, and a new referral program.
"There are some people who do not know how to get assistance. If someone needs to fill out an application for housing we can direct them to the right place. We plan to hold autism awareness programs, civic programs and family reunification programs," she said.
Arlessa Douglass said she wanted to do something to help families have a hot meal at Thanksgiving.
Michelle Carter-Douglass said what she is most proud of encouraging people to tell their testimonies and encourage other people to share their testimonies.
Behind Closed Doors Ministries reached out to the community this week with a free community Thanksgiving dinner served at Alta Behavioral Healthcare's Camp Challenge in Youngstown.
Carter-Douglass said her daughter, Arlessa Douglass, last year wanted to do something for the community and so a holiday dinner was selected.
Behind Closed Doors Ministries hopes to make this community Thanksgiving dinner an annual tradition
The Warren location will be where several of the activities will take place with community events hosted by the ministry to be held off site. Operation hours are Monday to Friday.
The ministry also held a back to school giveaway in both counties and a heritage dinner.
Carter-Douglass is co-founder of the ministry with their three children, Patrick Douglass, Arlessa Douglass and Brialann Douglass
There is a board of directors which includes the Rev. Monica Beasley Martin, Nicole Carter, Patricia Carter and Evelyn McWilson.
For information, visit www.bcdministriesllc.org.