At First Baptist Church of Vermilion (6716 W River Rd), a small but mighty effort is making a big difference. The Essentials Pantry, a faith-driven initiative, is helping residents bridge the gap where traditional assistance falls short. Instead of food, this pantry provides essential hygiene and household items—things that many families struggle to afford but aren’t covered by government aid programs.
As the pantry approaches its second year, its impact is growing. And on Saturday, February 8, from 10 AM to Noon, the community will have the chance to give back during the Annual Drive-Thru Donation Drive at First Baptist Church.
A Pantry Built on Faith and Generosity
When Pastor Shawn Salada joined First Baptist, he noticed a line item for a food pantry in the church’s finances. But with several food pantries already serving the area, a church member suggested a different approach: supplying hygiene and household essentials instead. The idea took off.
“This is led by God,” Salada said. “We’re a small church, we don’t have a lot of members, but every need has been met through local donors and businesses.”
Those donors have been critical to the pantry’s survival. Without them, Salada said, the pantry simply wouldn’t be able to continue.
The Numbers: Vermilion’s Growing Dependence on the Essentials Pantry
Though still in its early years, the pantry’s impact is undeniable. In 2025 alone, the pantry has already provided:
- 5,616 essential items
- 518 total visits
- 86 Vermilion residents served
- 57 visitors from Lorain and 12 from Amherst
The need spikes during the holidays, and with rising water and tax costs, organizers expect an even greater demand in the future.
A Different Kind of Pantry—No Income Requirements
Unlike many traditional food pantries, Essentials Pantry does not require income verification. The only request? Being a local resident.
“We wanted to make sure that anyone in need—regardless of income status—could access these essentials,” Salada explained.
To ensure accessibility, the pantry is open on the 3rd Tuesday of each month during two time slots (11 AM – 1 PM and 5 PM – 6:30 PM), allowing residents to stop by during lunch breaks or after work.
The Heart Behind the Pantry
While Pastor Shawn leads the church’s outreach, Essentials Pantry is managed by Anne Marie Wojton, a quiet but dedicated force behind the scenes.
Described as humble and servant-hearted, Wojton prefers to avoid the spotlight. But those who know her recognize her tireless work in keeping the pantry running smoothly.
How the Community Can Help
The pantry relies entirely on donations, and Vermilion residents have stepped up in a big way. There are multiple drop-off locations for those looking to contribute:
- Hometown Bakery
- YMCA
- Dollar Tree
The pantry’s most needed items include:
✔️ Body wash
✔️ Shampoo & conditioner
✔️ Dish soap
✔️ Deodorant
✔️ Feminine hygiene products
✔️ Multipurpose cleaners
Monetary donations are also greatly appreciated and help stock additional supplies.
Show Your Love: Annual Drive-Thru Donation Event on February 8
To keep shelves stocked, Essentials Pantry is hosting its 2nd Annual Donation Drive on Saturday, February 8, from 10 AM – Noon at First Baptist Church.
The drive-thru event makes it easy to donate—residents can simply pull up, drop off items or monetary donations, and go.
This small act of kindness can have a huge impact on families in need.
A Small Church, A Big Impact
Though First Baptist Church is not a large congregation, its commitment to the community is unwavering. The Essentials Pantry has become a vital resource for Vermilion, providing a safety net for those in need.
“We can’t do this without the community’s help,” Salada said. “And if the need continues to grow, we’ll need that support even more.”
Want to learn more or get involved? Follow Essentials Pantry on Facebook for updates:
➡️ Essentials Pantry Facebook Page
