serve
We love Rockford
We love
ROCKFORD — because Rockford isn’t just a city. It’s our home.
At City First Church, we believe in transforming lives with tangible help and real hope. Our mission is more than easy fixes: we’re committed to providing food, resources, and long-term support so that every individual and family in our city can build a stable, thriving future.
Whether we’re delivering groceries, distributing backpacks for school, hosting community events, or walking alongside our neighbors — we want Rockford to know: we see you, we care, and you matter.
Together, we’re bridging gaps, building futures, and putting hope into action — because loving Rockford means showing up, serving faithfully, and believing in what’s possible when a community comes together.
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Second Saturday SERVE
On the Second Saturday of each month, we come together to meet real needs in Rockford with compassion and purpose. Whether we’re handing out food, delivering care, checking in on families, or simply showing up for someone, every act matters.
It isn’t about quick fixes or short-term help — we believe in building bridges to lasting change and empowering lives. When we serve side‑by‑side, we’re not just volunteering — we’re standing with our neighbors, walking alongside them, and offering more than support. We offer dignity, hope, and a chance for a stronger tomorrow.
Join us this Second Saturday — not just to give, but to invest in our community, share hope, and help build a Rockford where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Fill out the form to receive more information on upcoming events.
Food Distributions
On designated days we open our doors and our hearts — welcoming individuals and families to receive free groceries and fresh food, no questions asked. Whether you’re in need of a helping hand or know someone who is — come through, drive‑thru or walk in, and receive a gift of nourishment.
We believe food is more than sustenance — it’s a message: you are seen, you are valued, you matter. Every bag we pass out is our way of saying: you are part of this community, and we’re here for you.
If you’re looking to help — serving as a volunteer is one of the most powerful ways you can show love: by giving your time, your care, and your compassion to neighbors in need.
Backpack DRIVE
Each year, we come together to ensure children in our community start the school year ready to learn.
No matter their background, every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. When we sponsor a backpack — or help pack and distribute them — we’re sending more than supplies. We’re sending a message: you are seen, you are valued, and you matter.
Join us in lifting up our kids, our families, and our community — because when children are supported, hope grows, futures brighten, and Rockford becomes stronger together.
Christmas Hope
Each Christmas season, we believe every child and family deserves to experience the kindness, warmth, and hope that this time of year can bring. Through Christmas Hope, we partner with local schools, volunteers, and community members to make sure children in need receive gifts that brighten their holiday — often the only ones they’ll receive.
When you donate a new, unwrapped toy — or join us in packing and distributing — you’re giving more than a gift. Join us in bringing real hope to our community this Christmas. Together, we can light up lives, strengthen families, and share the true spirit of the season — because hope looks like love in action.
Serve DAY
Serve Day is our chance to go beyond words — to walk out love in real, hands-on ways. It’s a day where we, as friends, families, and neighbors, come together to meet needs in our community: providing food, brightening a neighbor’s day, building care packages, and serving local organizations.
Whether you serve with your friends, family, or Life Group, every small act matters. Because when we serve — together — we learn that hope isn’t just a feeling. It’s action, connection, and compassion made visible.
Join us on Serve Day — not for glory or recognition — but because our city deserves love, dignity, and care. Together, let’s show Rockford what it looks like when a community cares.
CITY FIRST CHURCH
