Get to know us!

Family Christian Development Center, often referred to as 'FCDC' or 'The Center', was founded in 1996 as a rural pilot agency to bring previously absent social services to a 100% rural community. This includes the townships of Locke, Harrison, Olive and Union in Elkhart County, Scott and Jefferson in Kosciusko County, and the city of Nappanee and the town of Wakarusa, all of which are classified as 100% rural by the US Census. Our service area has approximately 20,000 inhabitants spread out over 100 square miles in these six rural townships.

In the past 20 years, FCDC has grown from a food pantry with one unpaid volunteer to a community service organization with varied programs and services that adapt to meet community needs. Our staff includes an executive director, 2 full time, and 7 dedicated part-time staff.

The success of our programs is due, in part, to these factors: 1) a solid base of individuals, businesses and churches who consistently donate year after year; 2) a diversified funding base so that no one income source accounts for more than 20% of the operating budget; 3) a myriad of well-established partnerships at the local, regional and state levels; and 4) hundreds of volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually to benefit 11,430 individuals (in 2019).

In addition to the Food Pantry where over 9,724 individuals were served in 2019, FCDC provides regular assistance to area residents through the Medication Assistance Program that served over 61 persons in 2019. Rent and Utility Assistance is provided as funds and resources are available. The Baby Immunization Program provides baby check-ups and vaccinations at no charge thanks to Dr. Lisa Orn’s volunteer hours. Over 350 babies received 703 vaccinations in the past year. Also helping young families is the Baby Care Closet providing items new parents need for the care of their newborn. The Clothing Closet gave away 5,138 items of clothing to 743 clients in 2019.

Our Mission

To demonstrate the love of Christ by bringing together the resources of our caring community in order to transform our community.