A longtime ministry serving elderly Native Americans in South Carolina has grown into a statewide hunger-relief effort, reaching both Native and non-Native neighbors in the name of Christ. Known as the elder basket ministry, this project provides food, toiletries, and other essentials to those in need—many of whom live in food deserts and far below the poverty line.
For years, South Carolina United Methodists have partnered with Native American communities to supply “elder baskets”—plastic laundry baskets filled with canned goods, toiletries, and household items that food stamps cannot cover. But after the pandemic shattered food supply chains, the ministry expanded into a large-scale relief project. Today, it unites all ten of South Carolina’s state- and federally recognized Native tribes with local congregations and Christian organizations to provide meals and supplies to thousands.
Ministry That Multiplies
Cathy Nelson, of the Keepers of the Word Grandmother Drum group and a member of Cottageville Community Methodist Church, said the collaboration has enabled them to do far more together than they ever could alone. “We rose to meet the need and try and stand in the gap,” she explained.
Lee Anne Lamar, of the Keepers of the Word Turtle Drum group in Chapin, noted that while the name “elder baskets” remains, the scope has grown. “It really provides an opportunity to be Jesus to people who need it,” Lamar said.
What began as baskets of canned goods has become a network of partnerships—connecting tribes, churches, farmers, and even local grocery stores. Distributions now take place at central hubs, such as Mission Lake in Columbia, where food and essentials are gathered, prayed over, and shared with those who need them most.
Why Support Matters
The elder basket ministry reflects the purpose of Native American Ministries Sunday, a United Methodist special Sunday that strengthens Native American communities and ministries across the connection. Support from this offering helps initiatives like the elder baskets flourish, providing not only material relief but also dignity, hope, and a tangible expression of God’s love.
Those who wish to support this work can do so by giving online:
Support Native American Ministries Sunday
By participating in Native American Ministries Sunday, United Methodists ensure that efforts like the elder basket program continue to grow, adapt, and meet pressing needs in both Native and non-Native communities.
Source: “Native American elder basket program now brings statewide relief,” by Jessica Brodie, published in South Carolina Advocate
One of six churchwide Special Sundays with offerings of The United Methodist Church, Native American Ministries Sunday serves to remind United Methodists of the gifts and contributions made by Native Americans to our society. The special offering supports Native American outreach within annual conferences and across the United States and provides seminary scholarships for Native Americans.
When you give generously on Native American Ministries Sunday, you equip seminary students who will honor and celebrate Native American culture in their ministries. You empower congregations to find fresh, new ways to minister to their communities with Christ’s love. Give now.
