1998
Founded by Faith
In 1998, a group of 13 local churches came together with a shared vision to combat hunger in the Lowell community. They established Flat River Outreach Ministries (FROM) as a food pantry, initially operating out of the basement of the Lowell United Methodist Church. This humble beginning marked the start of a dedicated effort to provide nutritious food and essential support to families facing food insecurity in the area. The collaborative spirit of these churches laid the foundation for what would grow into a vital community resource over the years.
1999
The First Building
In 1999, just a year after its founding, FROM received a crucial grant from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. This funding allowed the organization to purchase a building located at 519 Main Street (Now home to Alpha Care Center), which would become the home of the newly founded Thrift Store and for their expanding services. With the help of dedicated community volunteers, the building was renovated and prepared to support these new initiatives.
2007
From a Manor to a Ministry
After experiencing steady growth and outgrowing the space at 519 Main Street, FROM’s leadership recognized the urgent need for a larger, more versatile facility to better serve Lowell. Over three years, a dedicated committee from the Board of Directors carefully explored numerous options, weighing factors such as location, space, and the potential to expand programs. Finally, in 2007, all the pieces came together, and FROM made the significant move to its current building at 11535 Fulton Street East. This property was the former Cumberland Manor, a site that offered ample space and potential for the organization’s continued growth. The relocation marked a major milestone, providing FROM with the facilities necessary to enhance and broaden its services for neighbors in need throughout the Lowell area.
2009
River of Hope & Our First Paid Staff
By 2009, as FROM continued to grow in both the scope and complexity of its services, the organization recognized that relying solely on volunteers was no longer sufficient to meet the increasing day-to-day operational demands. To strengthen its capacity and ensure sustainable management, FROM made the important decision to hire its first paid staff members—a part-time Bookkeeper to manage financial records and an Executive Director to provide leadership and oversee the organization’s programs and development.
Around the same time, FROM launched its most ambitious fundraising effort to date: the River of Hope campaign. With a bold goal of raising $1.4 million, this campaign aimed to fund extensive renovations and improvements to the building at 11535 Fulton Street East, transforming it into a modern, welcoming space equipped to serve the community more effectively. The campaign galvanized support from local donors, volunteers, and community partners who all believed in FROM’s mission and vision for the future. The success of River of Hope laid a critical foundation for the organization’s growth and ability to serve more neighbors in need.
2016
504: The First Housing
After learning of the housing crisis in Lowell and struggling to find housing for neighbors facing homelessness, FROM took an important step toward long-term housing stability by purchasing 504 East Main Street, a 10-unit apartment building designed to support individuals living on their own. This investment expanded FROM’s commitment to safe, affordable housing by offering efficient units that provide dignity, security, and a stable place to call home for single adults in our community.
2025
Building Foundations, Building Hope
With the support of a generous and committed community, FROM launched the Building Foundations, Building Hope campaign to expand family housing in February of 2025. Together, supporters raised $3.3 million to construct three new buildings, creating 17 newly built units for families. They broke ground on construction in May of 2025. FROM also leveraged separate funding to purchase the neighboring house and the former Drake’s gas station at 524 East Main Street. These units are planned to be occupied by renters in 2026.
Looking ahead
Now and the Future
FROM is preparing to welcome new neighbors as families and individuals begin moving into newly built and renovated housing. This next chapter centers on creating a sense of home, connection, and belonging from day one. Work continues to convert the former Drake’s gas station into dedicated office space for tenants, offering on site support and family focused services. At the same time, FROM is expanding programs such as transportation to help remove everyday barriers and support stability. Looking ahead, FROM is excited to welcome new people, grow alongside them, and continue building a community rooted in dignity, care, and hope.
Watch this video on FROM’s history with founding board member Ann Dimmick.
