TOLEDO, Ohio — Faith Lutheran Church on South Avenue is making it clear it's still open and just looking for a "roommate" with a sign in the front of the church.
Minister Jim Martin said about 70% of the church's income comes from schools and day care operations renting the space. The past renter moved out earlier in 2023.
"We've got close to 8,000 feet of classroom space," Martin said. "We've got something that would fit about everybody's needs and it's just a matter of finding the right renter."
Martin says the church's current financial situation is not sustainable and it needs the income from renters to be able to help the community. The church hosts food and personal needs pantries multiple times a month. Volunteers also serve people a hot meal monthly.
Jeanette Mandell, who coordinates the events, said she's worried the church will have to shut down if another renter doesn't come soon.
"I would hate to see that happen because this neighborhood really needs us," Mandell said. "We've been serving this neighborhood at the food pantry for 50 years and I would hate to see that end."
But Martin is optimistic, saying the church won't close. He thinks the congregation will step up to keep the church open.
But says just relying on money from the congregation might affect outreach, he said.
"At a certain point in time if that renter income doesn't pick up, we'll have to start doing a little less for the community," Martin said.
The church holds a food pantry every first and third Friday of every month, a personal needs pantry every Thursday morning and a hot meal once a month for those who register by calling 419-385-7459.